Grades 1-6
A shift in focus took place following our dance module that has re-energized our students and we began to look at badminton skills in PE. Students were introduced to some common language found in badminton, including a description of the equipment that is used when playing this fast moving sport. Basic individual skills like holding the racquet with the proper 'handshake grip' and getting an individual rally started, were key points in the initial lessons. A goal for students is to work towards being able to start a rally on their own, and continue hitting the birdie with control and consistent movements. Students are reminded to bend their knees, keep their eye on the birdie, and maintain a flat racquet as they calmly swing and make contact. Near the end of the week, students made adjustments to their rallying skills as they were challenged to partner up with somebody, and start their rally with an official underhand serve.
Kindergarten
We are so excited that soon our Kindergarten students will be receiving a big increase to their physical education time. The Kindergarten teachers and myself have worked with our current schedule to find more ways to collaborate, team teach, and offer a much more dynamic PE program for our youngest students. In addition to working with myself on Fridays, Kindergartens will soon be spending time in the gym with their classroom teachers during the week, from 10:15-11:00am and 12:45-1:15pm. With this additional time, students will be more confident and successful with concepts and skills being taught in PE, and will be much more active throughout the week.
Swimming
Starting on Tuesday November 14th, our afternoon Kindergartens and Grade 1 students will be traveling to the Trico Centre for 6 days of swimming lessons. The Trico Centre follows the internationally acclaimed Lifesaving Society Swim for Life Program. This program starts by teaching fundamental swimming skills which encourages students to make safe choices in and around water, and continually challenges swimmers to learn more.
If you are interested in reading more about the swimming levels at the Trico Centre, please follow the link below:
Swim for Life Program- Swim Levels
Thank you for taking the time to read through this blog, I hope that it helps to keep you informed with what Chaparral students are working on during their time in Physical Education.
Ryan Van Roekel