Mrs. Cassie Ahrens
Teacher, Physical Education
ext. 123
cahrens@saintpaul-school.org
Kindergarten – 2nd Grade Physical Education
The majority of activities for students in these grades are individual in nature and centered on learning movement concepts through theme development. Movement principles, body control and management skills, and correctly following different sets of directions are an emphasis in most activities. There is a major focus on locomotor skills, balance, and coordination. Throughout the year students learn and use these newly acquired skills through a variety a different games, exercises and sports. Basic foundational sport skills are taught and practiced at the individual level as well as with partners and occasionally small groups. The values of safety, cooperation, and sportsmanship are encompassed in every lesson highlighting the Schoolwide Learning Expectations that are woven throughout the program.
3rd – 5th Grade Physical Education
As these grade levels present a greater range of abilities within each class, the refinement of fundamental skills and movements are emphasized through a variety of sports, exercises and games. The development of specialized skills takes a greater role in activities on a daily basis. Cooperation with peers is integral as more emphasis is placed on partner, group and team activities. Communication, teamwork, and leadership become a more important responsibility for students. Sport lead-up activities and team sports are employed so students can use, practice, and develop skills further. Our Schoolwide Learning Expectations are woven throughout the program.
6th – 8th Grade Physical Education
For students in these grades, activities shift towards specialized skills and sport activities. Students continue learning and improving sport skills while participating in cooperative games of different types. Students are given the opportunity to participate in a wider variety of individual and team sports. Tournaments are held within specific sports to encourage teamwork, cooperation, and healthy competition. One example of this is the annual badminton doubles-tournament. Greater emphasis is placed on muscular and cardiovascular, strength and endurance. Fitness routines are established and implemented to focus students on making personal improvements in different fitness areas. Instruction is given to guide students in making decisions on personal approaches to maintaining physical fitness levels and enhancing their mental and spiritual outlook on life. Students are guided to understand and gain an appreciation for living an active life style and our Schoolwide Learning Expectations are woven throughout the program.
Presidential Fitness Testing
Students in grades 1 – 8 are administered fitness testing twice a year. Ample class time is dedicated for students to practice and prepare for these fitness tests as they approach. The Presidential Fitness Testing includes a pull-up test, a sit and reach flexibility test, the shuttle run, a one-minute sit-up test, and a one-mile run.
Cooperative Learning
Throughout the school year students in all grades participate in different cooperative learning exercises and games to promote, practice, and encourage teamwork, communication, and cooperation with classmates. Building relationships within each class and enhancing the school environment is a primary focus.