Appropriate Instruction in Physical Education

Appropriate instruction — one of the four essential components of physical education — takes into account the diverse development levels that students in all grade levels will exhibit. 

The physical education teacher uses instructional practices and deliberate-practice tasks that support the goals and objectives defined in the school district's or school's physical education curriculum (e.g., differentiated instruction, active engagement, modified activities, self-assessment, self-monitoring).

The teacher also employs instructional practices that engage students in moderate to vigorous physical activity for at least 50 percent of class time and ensures the inclusion of all students, including making the necessary adaptations for students with special needs or disabilities.

Finally, the teacher evaluates student learning continually to document teacher effectiveness.

Appropriate Instruction Resources 

• Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines, K-12: A Side-by-Side Comparison
• 20 Indicators of Effective Physical Education Instruction
• Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity in Physical Education to Improve Health and Academic Outcomes
• System for Observing Fitness and Instruction Time (SOFIT)
• Physical Activity Used as Punishment or Behavior Management

Popular Resources

• National Standards and Guidelines
  
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Peer-Reviewed Journals
  
• National Standards & Grade-Level Outcomes for K-12 Physical Education

The Essential Components
of Physical Education