Motor Skills and Body Movement in Lower School PE

Since we are in October, we have entered into our Throwing Unit beginning with underhand throwing. Our main learning targets include controlling their fine and gross motor skills through underhand throwing and accuracy and distance in throwing. In order to reach our targets, a proper underhand throwing technique was taught to the students in three simple steps: 1) STEP (step with opposite foot), 2) TICK (swing throwing arm behind to 6:00), 3) TOCK (swing throwing arm in an underhand motion to 3:00).

This week, kindergarten students are learning to toss a bean bag to themselves and catching it as it approaches them. Grades 1-4 are working on bowling. Bowling is a great way to show underhand throwing skills. It also teaches the students to straighten their throws in order to hit their target. It’s always fun to bring outside games, playground or board, into the classroom. Some other games that the students will get to play are Skeeball, Connect 4, and Save A Sailor. 

Save A Sailor is a new game that involves a combination of underhand and overhand throwing. It’s a game that also connects to our first unit of Body Movement and Control. Students need to be aware of their surroundings and they’ll work on their communication skills. At the end of the month, the students will participate in their first Fitness Week of the school year. K-2 will participate in Parachute Fitness which is where the students will be able to properly execute a curl-up and knee push-up. They will be able to demonstrate knowledge of muscular and aerobic fitness. They will also be able to differentiate between strong and light force. 3-4 will participate in a mile run on the Blue Top and then the second day will be fitness stations. Here students will participate in activities to improve muscular strength & endurance. They will differentiate between muscular strength & muscular endurance. They will also identify specific exercises that can improve muscular strength and endurance.