what is physical education?
As described by the Physical Education Framework for California Public Schools, "physical education is an integral part of the overall education program for every student and provides one of the few opportunities for every student to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary to lead a physically active lifestyle." A high-quality physical education program not only contributes enormously to every student's overall health, but enables each student to discover an interest/joy/passion in some type of movement activity.
Through physical education, students will possess greater motor skill development and improved cognitive functioning. Studies have shown that participation in physical education/physical activity improves an individual's cognitive ability (inside the classroom or outside of the classroom). Not only can a quality program improve test scores, but the sole action of participating in physical activity will allow the brain to process more information throughout the day. Physical education is the most underutilized and underrated subject throughout all of the schooling systems. While the traditional stereotype of physical education class may be seen as a game of dodgeball, running the mile, or climbing ropes, we as an entire profession are striving to change the stereotype. We are focused on assisting each individual into a more active lifestyle through any mode of activity they enjoy. As a program, students will be exposed to many different activities, games, sports, and cultures, by which we hope can spark an interest in each student. Students will find themselves more confident on a daily basis, and as their self-esteem increases, they will be more enthusiastic and accepting of trying things they may never had thought possible. Whether it is learning movement through a simple group/social dance, participation in a extracurricular soccer game, or learning how to lift weights in a commercial gym, every unit focused on in class is originated to prepare the young adults for life. Physical education is teaching the skills, movement patterns, cooperation and collaboration, and social skills to feel comfortable in trying new things, leading to a more healthy and active lifestyle. With the trend of obesity in childhood/young adulthood skyrocketing throughout America, physical education has become one of the most important subjects taught in the schooling system. |
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