Physical Education

Physical Education (Core)

What is the nature of Physical Education in Grades 7 & 8?

The aim of Physical Education at SJI International is to develop the attributes of cohesion, friendship, social interaction and leadership, combined with competitive spirit where children are challenged through enjoyable and competitive activities. Within the structure of PE we promote and develop physical skilfulness, personal development, awareness, and knowledge of the body, through a range of activities. We provide various opportunities for pupils to be creative and competitive, and for them to work to specific goals as individuals and as members of a group or team.

What is the approach to learning?

The Physical Education curriculum is designed to allow the students to learn skills, key concepts, rules and strategies across a range of sports and activities in school, as well as gaining an understanding about how these can become good recreational pursuits for life. Activities are varied to cater for a wide range of abilities and learning styles. Students are always encouraged to better themselves as well as their peer’s performances through giving appropriate feedback. There is also a great focus on character strengths in Physical Education, and how students can be mindful of how they can utilise these strengths in order to be the best performer they can be.

What is the subject content?

Students develop key skills in a number of sports/activities including; Tactical and Strategic activities such as; Netball, Touch Rugby, Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Table Tennis, Badminton, Rounders, Softball and Cricket; activities which comprise of specific movement techniques and performances such as; Swimming, and Athletic activities; Team work and problem solving activities such as Sports education, Climbing, Orienteering, Outdoor and Adventurous activities, Lifesaving & personal survival activities, and also Fitness activities.

Students learn to:

Explain the relationship of P.E. to health, for example how to avoid injuries, or the benefits of cardiovascular fitness.

Develop social skills and a strong sense of fair play, enthusiasm and commitment, building a firm basis of the development of a range of character strengths.

Refine the motor skills necessary for a variety of activities

Understand and apply theories, techniques, rules and training principles of different games

Develop strategies and tactics to improve performance

Reflect on and evaluate their own and others performances.

What is the nature of assessment?

Students are assessed formatively each lesson and receive a summative level at the end of each unit of work, both against a set of criteria. The criteria, look at students’ understanding of principles and strategies as well as their competence demonstrating skills and techniques in a range of activities. Students are exposed to the criteria on a regular basis and can work together to identify areas for improvement based upon these criteria.

Students are not solely assessed on their practical abilities. This allows all students (including those medically exempt from lessons) the opportunity to progress and be assessed.

Students are assessed on and are expected to have a knowledge and understanding of the physical activities or topics studied. They are also expected to be able to use this knowledge and understanding critically, and be able to apply it to analyse situations and solve problems.

Students will perform in a range of activities, and show skills and techniques ranging from basic to complex. They should be able to apply tactics, strategies and rules in both individual and group situations.

Students are also encouraged to develop the character strengths and dispositions that underpin each activity studied including positive sportsmanship.