1. MY PROFESSIONAL BELIEFS
It has been said, “If you had fun, you won.” Comprehension, knowledge and
understanding cannot take place if a student is not engaged. With this in mind, a
classroom with a welcoming and compassionate learning environment, where students
have fun while increasing their knowledge base is imperative. When inspiring
students with varying cognitive, social, behavioral, and athletic abilities, it is
important to find ways in which to motivate while improving their self-esteem. Each
student is motivated in a different fashion; therefore, implementing a variety of
teaching strategies increases student participation and active listening. As an
educator, one should live what they teach. In turn, students will be motivated,
inspired, and enjoy the subject matter.
The ideal Physical Education program for the 21st century student is
multifaceted. It should be designed around building knowledge of a variety of
sports, thus challenging students to work to their fullest potential, and promoting
good sportsmanship. At the same time, opportunities to enhance self-esteem and
guarantee that students acquire a complete understanding of the skills should be
presented. There should be a systematic method for implementing this program. A
sound curriculum, a variety of teaching techniques, effective classroom management,
as well as assessing students’ progress must be carefully considered.
CURRICULUM
A Physical Education curriculum should be carefully planned. When
constructing it, aspects to consider would consist of school location as well as ages
and abilities of students, for these are important factors to regard when planning
lessons. The length of each unit must vary depending on the skills being taught and
the amount of time required to sufficiently familiarize the students with the
knowledge base to practice the sport outside of a school setting. In addition, it is
imperative to have alternative lesson plans to adhere to the above considerations. A
balanced curriculum, incorporating various sports, is important in giving students
experience in a wide range of physical activities. Throughout each sport,
psychomotor, cognitive, and social skills are utilized. It is important to provide
students opportunities to adapt skills from one sport to another as well as in real
life situations. It is my hope that students can take the knowledge gained in my
class and successfully assimilate my lessons into their daily life. Sports promote
physical fitness, positive social interaction, as well as good sportsmanship. A
carefully planned curriculum is essential for the systematic instruction of an array
of team as well as individual sports.
INSTRUCTION
A wide variety of instructional techniques, differentiated instruction, should
be a critical factor in the instruction of Physical Education and is essential in
keeping the students engaged and motivated. There should be a continual effort to
reach every type of learner. Lessons should be presented in such a way that
students are invested. Relating to all types of learners is critical.

2. Different approaches such as verbal and visual are ways in which to keep the
students involved and sustain their attention. While instructing, it is important to
make sure the students understand what is being expressed. Demonstrations are an
excellent method to check for understanding and give students the opportunity to
shine.
MANAGEMENT
Classroom management of a Physical Education classroom is essential for
effective use of class time. Without it, the class is chaotic. Therefore, students
should be made aware of protocols expected by the teacher. Knowing the format of
the class, as well as specific rules, ensure that the class runs smoothly. Students
should be familiar with the design of the class, so the teacher can begin instruction
as soon as possible. Posting and going over the rules as well as what is expected of
the students helps establish quality classroom management.
ASSESSMENT
Lastly, an assessment of progress is critical in determining how the student
is doing in class. Therefore, assessing students and evaluating their progress is a
constant occurrence in a Physical Education setting. In this manner, students will
always be aware of their progress. Through constructive assessment, strengths as
well as weaknesses should be identified in order to assist students in reaching their
goals. Deciding when an assessment should be completed will vary depending on the
scope of the lesson. Assessment is an excellent informative tool; it allows the
teacher to evaluate to what extent the student has retained the material.
Alternative assessments such as videotaping, journal writing, and giving homework
(such as physical activity logs) are just three of the many means of assessing. I
believe in these alternative assessment techniques, for they give more insight as to
how much the student truly understands. Often times, alternative assessments
increase motivation. Other forms of assessment, such as partner quizzes, allow
students to collaborate and feel more comfortable while being assessed. A quality
assessment should assess knowledge and understanding, and should be enjoyable for
the student.
A sound curriculum, quality instruction, effective classroom management, and
assessment of progress are essential for a quality Physical Education program. This
cannot be done without the support of students, staff, legal guardians, and the
teacher.