WEEK #38

THE LAST WEEK OF SCHOOL HAS ARRIVED!!!

Have a wonderful summer!!!!

The year has finally ended and it was personally a very long year. I'm continuing the long journey of completing my graduate program. I only have 5 months to go before my life becomes a little more normal again. I would like to wish all my students a safe, fun, and exciting summer! Remember to exercise and make healthy choices. Keep Moving!!!! I also would like to say thank you to all the parents, students, and teachers who have followed and commented on my blog this year. I hope you have learned that Physical Education is more than just kickball and dodge ball!! I hope you continue to follow my blog next year! Have a safe, fun, and relaxing summer!!!!

Michael Beringer
Fairview
Physical Education Specialist
http://fairviewpe.blogspot.com/

WEEK #37

K5 this week got their five levels of fitness in with an activity called High Five. This activity helped us develop muscular strength & cardiovascular endurance. The next activity we played was called Treasure Hunt. Here we used paper plates to get exercise. The students had to find the hidden treasure. Here is another example of how the Fairview Physical Education program is going green.

1st & 3rd grade this week went outside to exercise. Here we used frisbees to practice the frisbee throw and then played Frisbee Golf. Some basic golf etiquette was also taught. I set up a golf course using cones and tennis balls. The kids had a great time.

2nd grade this week also went outside to exercise. The students got their five levels of fitness in by playing I see...You see... and Math War. To finish class, we used crazy balls and played an activity called Crazy Ball. The students developed their hand-eye coordination, as well as,their reaction time.
4th grade this week got their five levels of fitness in with an activity called Ladders. We then used the giant cage ball and played the game Jolly Ball. With this game, we developed our kicking skills and had a muscular endurance workout!!!

5th grade this week had the unique opportunity to play softball. As most physical education teachers know, you have to be flexible when unforeseen situations occur. We took our hitting practice from last week and played a friendly game. All students could choose how to hit, either from a tee or pitched. We played for fun and did not keep score.

6th grade this week began their softball unit. Since we only have two weeks left in the school year, we went over a lot the first day. We discussed how to wear a glove, to grip a softball, how to field, and basic hitting skills. Our five levels of fitness this week was an activity called Odd or Even Tag with Dice.
7th/8th grade this week continued to develop their throwing, catching, and hitting skills. We also started to play the game of softball. However, one day this week we had to stay inside because of rain. On that day, we played Odd & Even Tag with Dice for our five levels of fitness warm-up. We finished class playing the cage ball game Jolly Ball.

WEEK #36

K4 this week worked on the concept of balance and manipulated small dome cones. We warmed-up with the song called Can You Keep Your Balance. After the song, we manipulated the small dome cones in many different ways. We finished class with a dome cone game called Statue Tag.
1st and 3rd grade this week got their five levels of fitness in with an activity called Plastic Bag Flag Tag. We then talked about and practiced the skill of overhand throwing and what accuracy means. We hung hula hoops all around the gym for practice and then ended class with an activity called Scooter Pinball.
6th grade this week was going to start their softball/baseball unit but rain forced us indoors. For our five levels of fitness, we played an activity called Ladders. This activity really develops your muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance. After fitness time, we then played a kicking and muscular endurance game called Jolly Ball!!!!

7th/8th grade this week was also forced to stay indoors. So we took a break from softball and did some team building activities. The activities were called Get the Point, Transforming, and Partner Pick-up.

WEEK# 35

K4 this week reviewed their locomotor skills with an activity called High Five. We then participated in an activity called Treasure Hunt where the kids had to search for the hidden treasure that was placed all over the gym!!! K5 this week warmed-up with an activity named Body Parts. In preparation for our school having a going green day, we exercised with plastic bags. We discussed ways of reusing things that we use every day and we exercised with them. We made balls, a parachute, a rocket ship, and finished class playing Keep It Up and Plastic Bag Tag. At the end of the class, I reminded the students to never play with a plastic bag by themselves. They should always have an adult around to watch them for safety.

1st grade this week went outside for gym. We got our five levels of fitness exercise with an activity called Math War. We then participated in an activity called Two Base Kickball. This is not like your typical kickball game. You play the activity with two bases and three people. This allows for more participation and skill development.

2nd grade this week spent the day doing cooperative activities!!! We played a game called Same & Different. We then discussed what teamwork means and what it looks like, sounds like, and feels like. The activities where we practiced teamwork were Transformers and Partner Pick Up.

3rd thru 5th grade this week got their five levels of fitness in with an activity called Poppers (you use cut up noodles). We then talked about and learned how to strike with a long handle implement. We used baseball bats and tees to development this skill. We finished class playing the game 2-Base Baseball.

7th/8th grade this week continued with their softball/baseball unit. This week we practiced the skill of the underhand softball throw. We also reviewed fielding (pop-ups, fly balls, just catching, and grounders). We finished class with some hitting practice. The students had the opportunity to choose the way they wanted to hit, either with a tee, self toss, or being pitched to.

WEEK# 34

K4 this week warmed up with an activity called Same & Different. We then participated in a game called Dead Bug. Here the students developed their chasing and fleeing skills. We also practiced using our manners when someone helped us. We finished class manipulating different pieces of equipment in relay races. At the end of class, we discussed how we just don't exercise our hearts but we also exercise our body's muscle system.

1st grade this week got their five levels of fitness in with an activity called Transforming. Here we played rock, paper, scissor and the winner got to transform from egg, to chicken, to dinosaur, and last to super hero. We finished class discussing the concept of teamwork. We talked about what it looks like, sounds like, and feels like. We practiced this important lifelong skill with an activity called Partner Pick-up!

3rd grade this week got their five levels of fitness in with an activity called Poppers. We then discussed why we have Physical Education class (to learn how to use our bodies). The skill we discussed and practiced this week was striking with implements. We practiced hitting with baseball tees. We discussed other activities striking activities and how these activities develop hand-eye coordination.

4th & 5th grade this week needed the whole class to participate in the activity called Finding the Solution to Heart Disease! I had it published in the Great Activities Newspaper in Volume 27, number 1, Issue #131, in September/October, 2008! Here the students are given a Google map of the Fairview Property. They must use the map, a pedometer, and their partner to run around outside the school looking for the clues to find the answer.

6th grade this week took a little break from units to have a Fun Fitness and Exercise Day. Here I had the students participate in cooperative activities to get in their exercise this week. We played a warm-up called The Turkey Dance (Not really a dance). We then played a whole group activity called People-To-People and a small group activity called Partner Pick-up.
7th & 8th grade this started their final unit of the year softball. We used the resistance bands this week for our warm-up and took our softball pre-test. We discussed the ways to field a ball and finished class developing our fielding skills. We practiced taking grounders and fly balls in various ways.

WEEK #33

1st grade this week practiced the skill of catching. We discussed why, where, and when we would use the skill of catching. Our five levels of fitness warm-up was a tag game called Wipeout. We used the song from the group The Safari's and practiced our listening skills during the activity. After Wipeout, we practiced catching a variety of objects. I placed beach balls, footballs, a foam die, a noodle, etc. into hula hoops on the ground. The students paired up and practiced catching the various objects. Then they would switch on command. We finished class playing a catching activity called It's Raining Cats and Dogs!!!!

3rd grade this week continued with their team building unit. For our five levels of fitness warm-up we played an activity named Bumper Cars!! After that, we discussed the word of the day. This weeks word was Teamwork! We spent time discussing the meaning. The rest of the class time was devoted to challenging the students in Teamwork activities. These activities were Musical Hoops & Loop the Hoop.
4th & 5th grade this week also continued with their team building unit. Their five levels of fitness activity was called the Turkey Dance. It's not really a dance!! We discussed the word of the day which was Problem Solving!! We then spent time discussing the meaning and what it looks like, sounds like, and feels like. The activity we used to practice this word was an activity called Maze. They needed to help their group members out of a pretend building.

7th & 8th grade this week finished up their Badminton unit. This week we practiced and developed our serving and smashing skills. We used skill stations to get in our five levels of fitness warm-ups. The rest of the class was used to start game play. The students really had a blast during this unit.

WEEK #32

K4 this week exercised with plastic bags. We started class playing a warm-up game called Body Parts (moving in general space). We then made the plastic bags into balls, parachutes, rockets, and ended class with an activity called Bag Tag! At the end of the lesson, we discussed as a class about safety and how you should not play with plastic bags without an adult watching!!

K5 this week got their exercise by playing with plastic eggs. We started class with a song called Bean Bag Boogies. We then manipulated the plastic eggs many different ways. We balanced them, spun them, and also did spin pick-up. We ended class playing an activity called Empty My Basket!!

1st grade this week got their five levels of fitness in by playing Wipeout Tag. We played this to the song Wipeout by the Safari. We then went over the skill of catching. We practiced catching many different objects of many different sizes and shapes. We finished class with the activity called It's Raining Cats and Dogs.

2nd grade this week got their five levels of fitness in by playing the Fitness Wheel. The next activity we participated in was the game called Star Wars. I played the Star Wars theme song while we used foam noodles and had a star wars battle. We finished class with an activity called Memory Match. Here we had to use our math skills.
3rd grade this week continued their cooperative unit. We started class with a group activity called Bumper Cars. We discussed the word of the day, which was Team Work (A group of people working together to accomplish a goal). The activities we used to practice this concept were Musical Hoop and Loop the Hoop.

4th grade this week also continued with their cooperative unit. At the beginning of class, we played a noodle game called Poppers. We then talked about the word of the day, Trust. We practiced this concept with activities called People-to-People and Partner Pick-up.

6th grade this week finished up their volleyball unit. Our warm-up this week was a skill review warm-up. We had four stations set up where the students reviewed bumping, setting, and the underhand & overhand serves. We ended class playing volleyball and discussing scoring and rotating.

7th/8th grade this week continued learning and developing their hand-eye coordination & long handle implement skills. This week we got our five levels of fitness in by playing the noodle game Poppers. We then practiced some basic striking skills. We finished class playing Hit & Go and Small Sided Badminton.

WEEK #31

K4 this week got a chance to go outside for Physical Education class. We began class with a listening activity called On the Whistle. We also got a chance during this activity to review our locomotor skills (hopping, skipping, jumping, galloping, sliding, etc.). We finished class with an activity called Dog Catcher. Here the students got a chance to learn and practice the skills of chasing and fleeing with the concept of changing directions (agility).

1st grade's five level of fitness warm-up this week was called Fitness Wheel. We used a stack of Uno cards and the Fitness wheel to participate in some goofy and wacky exercises. One example is swing like a monkey and sing a song. We then played a game called Stars Wars where we used noodles to pretend we were star wars characters. We even used Star Wars Music!!! To finish up class we talked about how exercise can help with your school work and we participated in a game called Memory Match. The kids had a blast this week!!
3rd & 4th grade this week started their team building unit. We discussed what the key elements to a good team are and used some physical activities to practice these elements. Each week we will have a Word of the Day. We will define the word, show examples of it, and practice it. The activities this week were Rock, Paper, and Scissors Tournament, Connecting Eyes, and Cooperative Shoe Tie. The word of the day was communication (verbal & non-verbal)!!! The students did a fantastic job!!


5th grade this week also started their team building unit however they are preparing for a field trip to Potters Forest, a Ropes and Challenge course! This week we discussed the conduct contract and the no put down rule!!! The activities we participated in after we got done with the grounds rules were Count Off and Connecting Eyes. Fifth grade will also have the word of the day each week.

6th grade this week continued their volleyball unit. This week we warmed up with a cardiovascular activity called Poppers. We used cut up noodles to discuss hand-eye coordination and cardiovascular endurance. After the five levels of fitness warm-up, we went over bumping and setting cues and activities. We finished up class with Mini Volleyball.

7th/8th grade this week continued with their badminton unit. This week we focused on the forehand and backhand striking skills. Our fitness warm-up was a cardiovascular and hand-eye coordination game called Poppers (I used thick noodle chips and cut them in half). We finished class with two activities called 2-on-2 Knockout and Hit & Go!

WEEK #30

1st grade this week participated in the same lesson as the first graders during week #29. They celebrated Easter by playing the games Egg Fitness, Smash the Egg, and Scrambled Eggs. At the end, every child was given an egg to take home with a small treat inside. Also, a nice message was written on their eggs.

4th grade this week started their Team Building unit. This week we discussed the no put downs rule and about the challenge by choice rule!!! We started class with a five levels of fitness warm-up called Bumper Cars. We then discussed the word teamwork and played two activities called Musical Hoops and Hoop the Hula Hoop. We had a great time!!!

7th/8th grade this week finished up some of their community building activities and started the first day of their Badminton Unit. This week emphasized birdie and racket orientation. We discussed the difference between forehand and backhand and participated in some basic striking drills. We finished class playing the activity called Keep it Up where the students had to demonstrate control hitting.

WEEK #29

K4 celebrated Easter by exercising with plastic Easter eggs. That's right plastic Easter eggs!!! We started class with a movement song called Bean Bag Boogie, but pretended it said Easter Egg Boogie!! After that, we manipulated the plastic eggs by balancing the eggs, spinning the eggs, and doing some tricks with poly spots and the plastic eggs. At the end of the lesson, we played a game called Fill My Basket where we learned the concept of sharing!!

K5 this week had to take gym outside because of Fairview's annual Science Fair. We headed outside in the cold and warmed up with an activity called On The Whistle. This activity allowed us to practice our listening skills, as well as, our locomotor skills of hopping, skipping, etc. We finished class playing a game called Dog Catcher. This a game that allows the students to learn how to change directions in open space (dodging). We also learned and practiced the skill of sportsmanship. When someone gets tagged, we always say better luck next time!

1st grade this week also celebrated Easter. We started class with an activity named Egg Fitness. Plastic Eggs with exercises and healthy messages inside them were scattered throughout the gym. The students then by themselves or with a friend helper opened the eggs and performed the exercise. Next we played the game called Smash the Egg. Here students had to take their bean bag and try to catch someone by sliding the bean bag (Egg) at each others feet. Anybody can get anybody. We then finished class with an activity called Scrambled Eggs. This is a game that really helps learn the skill of underhand throwing. The kids tried not to go to the Easter Basket!!!

3rd grade this week took a break from units. Here at Fairview, I teach the kids that you don't have to play team sports to get exercise. Exercise is for everyone. So this week the 3rd graders also celebrated Easter by playing Egg Fitness and Smash the Egg. They ended class with an activity called Try to Catch the Bunny that practiced the physical skill of rolling, overhand throwing, jumping, and dodging.

4th and 5th grade this week used their volleyballs for their five levels of fitness warm-up. We did some modified volleyball sit-ups and push-ups and go's. We then learned the why and how of underhand serving. We ended class playing the game called Bombs Away where we had to use our newly learned skill of underhand serving.

6th grade this week reviewed the volleyball skill of overhand serving and played the game called Dead Fish for the second week in a row!! However, this week we increased the difficulty by adding hula hoops all over the court. The reason for this is because we were really trying to focus on the skill of serving for accuracy!! Our five levels of fitness activity was done with medicine balls. We did partner static push-ups alternating with squat ball jumps!!

7th/8th grade this week started a new quarter. The fourth and final quarter of the year!! The first day we went over class expectations along with some community building activities called Who Am I, Good Morning Nice to Meet You, and Hog Call. The second day we started our badminton unit. Here we started with basic birdie and racket orientation activities and finished with the activity called Keep It Up!!!

WEEK #28

K4 this week warmed up with an activity called Five Noses. We had the opportunity to practice our locomotor skills of hopping, jumping, skipping, galloping, and sliding. We then celebrated St. Patricks day by practicing the skills of underhand throwing and playing a game called Pot of Gold.
1st grade this week exercised with balloons. We warmed up with a cardiovascular and sharing activity called Balloon Tag. We manipulated the balloons in many different ways. At the end of class, we played Partner Volleyball where we practiced and improved our hand eye coordination.

2nd grade celebrated Easter early this week because they won't be able to have physical education class next week because of a program! We started class playing Egg Fitness (this is where I use plastic Easter eggs and fill them with pieces of paper with exercises and healthy messages inside). After that we played Rotten Eggs. We ended class with an activity called Srambled Egg The main skills practiced this week were dodging and fleeing, as well as, the underhand swing motion.

4th grade grade this week warmed up by playing an activity called Smoking Tag. Since smoking is one of the five risk factors for heart disease, we reviewed why we shouldn't smoke and played a game to reinforce it. We then started our volleyball unit where we learned and practiced the skill of bumping. We ended class playing the game called Alphabet.

3rd & 5th grade this week continued their volleyball unit. We warmed up this week playing an activity called Smoking Tag. Since smoking is one of the five risk factors of heart disease, we reviewed why we shouldn't smoke and played the game to reinforce it. Next, we went over the skill of bumping and finished class playing a game called Mini Volleyball with badminton nets.


6th grade this week reviewed the five levels of fitness with an activity called Volleyball Fitness. I would call off a level of fitness and the leader of the row would demonstrate an activity that their row had to copy to show understanding. We then started our 1st day of volleyball and started with the skill of serving!!! We finished class with an activity called Go Fish, a great serving for accuracy activity.

7th & 8th grade this week finished up the 3rd quarter by playing hockey. We were able to use our carrying, dribbling, wrist shot, and slap shot skills. We focused on teamwork!!

WEEK #27

K4 this week had the opportunity to exercise by manipulating balloons. We played balloon tag, as well as, practiced our coordination skills by striking the balloon with various body parts. We ended class by participating in an activity called Keep It Up!!
K5 thru 2nd grade this week celebrated St. Patricks Day by learning and practicing how to throwing underhand!!! Our five levels of fitness warm-up was the Animal Action song for k5 & Smoking Tag for 1st/2nd grade. We then practiced the skill of underhand throwing with partners and hula hoops. I hung Hula Hoops all over the gym walls and the students were able to pick any level they wanted to throw into. We ended class playing an under hand throwing activity called Pot of Gold!!

3rd grade this week continued with their volleyball unit. They reviewed the skill of setting and then began to learn the skill of bumping. We ended class with a game called Mini Volleyball where we played volleyball on badminton courts with badminton nets.

6th grade just finished their bowling unit and we decided to have a games day before we start our new unit. But that didn't mean we were not going to learn anything. Our warm up this week focused on one of the 7 levels of skill related fitness. We focused on reaction time and played an activity where we tested our reaction time. The activities were called Snatch It and T or F Tag. We finished class playing a rolling activity called Fire Fighter.

7/8th grade this week is ending their last few days of third quarter with some team building activities. We talked about verbal and nonverbal communication as we participated in activities called Snatch It, Here or There, Maze, and Cage Ball Soccer.

WEEK #26

K5 this week exercised using balloons. We talked about and practiced coordination. We tried multiple body parts to practice coordination, one of the 6 levels of skill related fitness. We warmed up playing Balloon Tag and then finished class playing a game called Keep It Up!! The students really enjoyed this lesson!!

1st & 2nd grade this week developed their catching skills. However, this week we didn't use our hands. We practiced how to catch an object with another object (Ex. Baseball). Since I don't have enough gloves for every student, we used milk jugs instead. We tried many different ways of trying to catch with the milk jug and then at the end of class we played an activity called Zone Ball.

3rd & 5th grade this week started volleyball. We will be learning the three basic skills of setting, bumping, and serving. This week we practiced the skill of setting. We discussed when and why we need to learn it. Our five levels of fitness warm-up this week was done using the volleyballs. We did volleyball sit-ups & twists. We finished class with activities called Alphabet and Four Square.

4th grade this week had to figure out what five levels of fitness were not in our Fitness Grid warm-up. After the warm-up, we practiced the skill of rolling. We finished class playing an activity called Pin Guard where everyone could practice the skill.

6th grade this week played a warm-up game called Energy In & Energy Out. This is an activity where we discuss the importance of energy balance. Calories in have to equal calories out in order to maintain a healthy body composition. We finished class continuing to play the bowling game called Bowling Bingo.

7th & 8th grade is continuing to develop their hockey skills. This week we reviewed the skills of carrying and dribbling the puck, as well as, learning the safe and proper way of striking the puck. We learned the slap shot and the wrist shot. We ended class this week playing activities called Gotcha & Sideline Hockey.

WEEK #25

K4, k5, and 2nd this week discussed teamwork and then practiced this life long skill with the parachute. We made an umbrella, mountain, dome, cross the river, and played the game Sharks!!!

3rd grade this week practiced the skill of rolling in an activity called Pin Guard. Our five levels of fitness warm-up was called Energy In and Energy Out, an activity where we discussed the importance of balancing our calorie intake with exercise. It's all about the energy balance for body composition.
4th grade this week finished up their basketball unit with more shooting practice and activities. Our five levels of fitness warm-up was called Energy In and Energy Out, the same as 3rd grade this week. 5th grade finished up their basketball unit by playing scooter basketball. We combined all the skills of dribbling, passing, and shooting and concentrated on teamwork in this great basketball game. Their five levels of fitness warm up was the same as 3rd and 4th grade, Energy In and Energy Out.

6th grade had their second day of their bowling unit. This week we concentrated on the 4 step approach and finished class playing Bingo Bowling. Our five levels of fitness activity was the same as 3rd,4th, and 5th grade of this week.

7/8 grade this week finished up their volleyball unit, where we reviewed the skills of bumping, setting, and serving. We practiced these skills by playing Dead Fish again but this time we used hula hoops to help increase our accuracy. We finished up the week just playing volleyball. Our five levels of fitness warm-ups were resistance bands and Energy In and Energy Out.

WEEK #24

K4 & K5 this week practiced and learned how to catch with a glove. However, we didn't use a glove like a baseball player would use. We recycled milk jugs!!! I cut the bottoms off milk jugs so that every child could have their own. We tried many different ways of trying to catch yarn balls. What a great way to develop hand-eye coordination!!!
1st & 2nd grade this week practiced and learned how to throw side arm!!! We were able to do this with some new foam Frisbees that I received. We started class playing some warm-up activities called Not Me and Toss & Catch Tag!! We finished class playing a Frisbee activity called Flyer Bowl with bowling pins!!!

3rd thru 5th grade continued to practice the skills of shooting a basketball, as well as, the skill of passing. We reviewed the critical elements of shooting and practiced the upper body part of shooting and the lower body part of shooting!! We also learned the bounce pass and the chest pass. We started class with an activity called You Pick where the students had to come up the warm-up exercises. The twist was they had to have all five levels of fitness in the activity. We finished class playing some passing and shooting activities called Zig Zag & Go!!!


6th grade this week started their bowling unit. We started class using the resistance bands where we performed some basic muscular endurance exercises. We then practiced the grip and pendulum swing in bowling and played the game High Pin to finish class.

7th & 8th grade is starting to wind down their volleyball unit. We reviewed the skills of bumping, setting, and serving. For our warm-ups, we used resistance bands and the game You Pick for our five levels of fitness!!! This week we focused on playing the regular game of volleyball.

WEEK #23

K4 thru 5th grade this week participated in Fairview's annual JUMP ROPE FOR HEART EVENT!!!!!!!! The student's for the past serveral weeks have been working hard on developing their jump rope skills. We also learned about how and why we need to take care of our heart. WAY TO STAY HEART HEALTHY!!!!!!

6th grade this week took a break from their core units and had a structured activity day. They participated in a warm-up activity where they had to pick the exercises to do. They had to have all the five levels of fitness in the warm-up. Dice were used to pick the exercise to perform and how many they had to do. We then played a game scalled Pin Guard where we practiced and developed our rolling skills. We are getting ready for our next unit which is going to be BOWLING!!!!!!

7th & 8th grade this week is continuing to practice and develop their bumping and setting skills for volleyball. We also started to practiced the skill of serving. They could choose either to practice their under hand serving or their over hand serving. Of course, over hand serving was encouraged. At the end of class, we played Mini Volleyball and a serving game called Go Fish.

WEEK #22

K5 this week used hula hoops to get exercise. However, we first participated in an activity called Number Scrabble where the students were given a scrabbled numbered ticket and they had to use a locomotor skill to find them. We then learned to hula hoop, as well as, manipulated them in many different ways. K5 is all about exploring manipulatives. The students really enjoyed this activity. We also tried some hula hoop tricks like jump roping the hoop, balancing with the hoop, and playing a game called Bumper Cars.1st & 2nd grade this week also did the warm up called Number Scrabble along with Fitnopoly. We then spent most of the physical education class discussing and playing an activity called Heart Attack Tag. Here we learned about the five things that hurt your heart. These are being a couch potato, eating junk food, smoking, stress, and body weight.

3rd thru 5th grade is still working on basketball skills (not playing just the game of basketball). The skills we continued to work on this week were dribbling and shooting. The activities we used to reinforce these skills were called Team Shoot Out and 7-Up.

6th grade this week had their test on the five levels of fitness. After the test, we played a game called On the Line Off the Line. This way we got some exercise for the day.

7th/8th grade this week finished up their five levels of fitness unit and began Volleyball. We started to practice the skills of bumping and setting and played a game at the end called Mini Volleyball where we used low nets. Fun was had by all!!

WEEK #21

K4 thru 2nd grade continued to get ready for Jump Rope for Heart. Simple jump rope tricks were practiced. We also manipulated the ropes into numbers, letters, and shapes. We also played some long rope activities called Snake in the Grass, High Fence Low Fence, Tic Toc, Around the World, and Cat and Mouse.

3rd thru 5th grade this week learned and practiced many different skills. 3rd grade developed their dribbling skills, 4th grade developed their ball handling skills, and 5th grade developed their shooting skills. The activities that were played to reinforce these skills were Knockout, Shoot out, and Dribble Flag Tag.

6th grade this week is finishing up learning about the five levels of fitness!!! This week we discussed body composition. We defined it, learned some examples of it, and finished up with why it's important to have a healthy body composition. The activities that were used to help reinforce this were called Body Fat Tag and Build a Body!! Their test will be next week. Make sure to study!

7th/8th grade this week is also continuing to learn about the five levels of fitness. This week we discussed muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility. A station course was used to help learn about muscular strength and endurance. In this course, we had stability balls, resistance bands, dumb bells, and the climbing wall. For flexibility, we played scooter basketball while also talking about the difference between stretching to prevent injury and stretching to improve flexibility.

WEEK #20

K4 & K 5 this week continued getting ready for Jump Rope for Heart. We practiced the basic jump rope technique, as well as, manipulating the jump rope by making shapes and numbers with the jump rope. We then finished class playing a game called Leap the River.
1st & 2nd grade this week started to learn some basic jump rope tricks. These tricks included one foot jumping, the ski, the bell, straddle, and the scissors. We ended the class playing some classic long rope activities called Water Wave, Cat & Mouse, Around the World, Tic Toc, Snake in the Grass, High Fence & Low Fence, and Around the World.

3rd & 5th grade continued learning and practicing the skill of dribbling a basketball. This week we practiced dribbling while doing some activities with bean bags. We did this to learn how to dribble while keeping our head up and to dribble with our finger pads. We ended class playing a game called Dribble Flag Tag.
6th grade this week learned about the 4th level of fitness called flexibility. We talked about why it is important and the difference between stretching to prevent injury and stretching to increase our flexibility. We ended class playing a game called Scooter Basketball.

7th & 8th has started a new quarter. So, the first day of class we participated in some cooperative activities called Find My People, Leaning Tower of Noodle, and Noodle Pull. The second day we began our fitness unit where we discussed cardiovascular endurance. We learned the meaning, the benefits, and some examples of it. We then participated in a cardiovascular endurance station course.

WEEK #19

K5 this week was introduced to jump roping. The basics were taught. We went over how to hold the handles and broke down the skills. We first praticed jumping with activities called Circle and Straight Line. We emphasized bouncing on our toes (like a ball) and not jumping too high. We then practiced turning the rope. Last we put both skills together and counted out loud 1, 2, 3 turn first and jump second!!!!! We started and finished class with a jump rope activity called Tail Tag!!

1st and 2nd grade this week continued to practice the basic jump roping with the addition of some basic jump rope tricks. We practiced one foot jumping and turning the rope backwards. We manipulated the jump ropes where I would ask them questions like what is the third letter in your first name , what is the fourth letter of the alphabet, and some basic math problems like 3+3=, and 5-2=. The students would then show me the answer by using their jump rope or the jump rope and their bodies.

3rd and 5th grade this week also continued to practice for Jump Rope for Heart. We tried the tricks called the Bell, the Ski, the Straddle, and the Straddle Cross. 3rd grade then began their basketball unit by learning ball handling activities called slaps, funnels, pops, drop down , and switch ups. 5th grade practiced the skill of static and dynamic dribbling. They then finished up class with an activity called Knockout.

6th grade this week discusssed the 2nd and 3rd level of fitness. This is muscular endurance and muscular strength. We discussed the definitions, the benefits, and some of the examples of the things you could do to enhance these components. We then participated in a station course where they experienced these components.

7th/8th grade finished up with bowling where we learned how to score and reviewed the four step approach. We included our fitness with the activity called Musical Fitness.

WEEK #18

1st and 3rd grade this week started class with an activity called Bug Off, a great cardiovascular activity!! We started getting ready for Jump Rope for Heart. We discussed the reasons why Fairview School participates in this great activity every year. This week we learned how to select the right size jump rope, as well as, the basics of jumping rope. At the end of class, we played a class game called Tail Tag or Mouse Trap!!!!

5th grade this week started their Jump Rope for Heart and Basketball Unit! As a class, we just went over the basics of jump roping and eased our way into getting ready for this very demanding cardiovascular activity. We also discussed why and how to prevent Heart Disease!! During the second half of class, we started our Basketball Unit. We went over the 4 basic skills of basketball and practiced the skill of ball handling.

6th grade started their fitness unit this week. For the next four weeks, we will discuss and participate in the the five levels of fitness. This week we went over the first level of fitness, Cardiovascular Endurance!!! We finished class exercising in a cardiovascular station course. Students participated in stations which included Dance Dance Revolution, Stationary Bikes, Jump Roping, Basketball Shooting, and Steppers.
7/8 grade started their Bowling Unit this week. We went over the grip, pendulum swing, full swing , and the one step approach!! For fitness,we did Musical Fitness where all Five Levels of Fitness were performed.

WEEK #17

K4 & K5 learned and praticed the difference between activities where you use your body to strike an object (ex. volleyball, soccer, and basketball) and an object to strike an object (ex. baseball, golf, tennis, hockey). This week we used plastic candy canes and pretended to use them as hockey sticks. We practiced striking and dribbling deck rings. We hit them hard, soft, forward, backward, sideways, close, and far. At the end of class, we played full class hockey tag. What a blast!

1st and 2nd grade students this week got their personal fitness in by participating in a game called Knockout. They also practiced the movement skills of dodging , fleeing, and moving in general space in an activity called Cookie Monster (with noodle chips).

3rd thru 6th grade got in their personal fitness with either the use of Power Walk Resistance Bands or with Team Workout Cards!!!! The skills developed and worked on were overhand throwing, catching, and rolling. The activities we used to practice these skills were called Sink the Ship and Partner Snowball Fight.

7/8th grade finished their last week of the games unit. For their personal fitness part of class, they used the Power Walk Resistance Bands (with video). We finished class developing the physical skills of kicking, throwing, rolling, and catching with activities called Battleship and Cone Kickball (Nothing like your typical kickball game)!!!!

WEEK #15 & 16

K4 thru 5th grade finished up the last two weeks before the holiday break by reviewing the physical skills and fitness components learned during the first half of the school year. All grades except 6th, 7th, and 8th grade reviewed these concepts by participating in a station course!!! 6th, 7th, and 8th grade is starting to finish up their elementary games unit. The students really seemed to enjoy playing activities they played when they were younger. I always tell my students that you don't have to play a sport or be athletic to participate in physical activities and get exercise!!

WEEK #14

K4 & K5 students this week participated in activities where they practiced moving in general space!!! The activities they played were I See... You See..., Beep Beep Times Up, and Dog Catcher and/or Sharks and Dolphins.

1st grade students this week practiced the skill of striking with a long handle implement. They used candy canes to develop the striking skills of dribbling and passing!! They played partner hockey and full class hockey.

2nd grade students this week practiced the skill of chasing and fleeing. They participated in activities called Knockout, Go Touch, and Sharks & Dolphins!!

3rd thru 5th grade practiced the skill of striking with long handle implements with hockey sticks. They participated in dribbling and passing activities and then finished class playing Monkey In the Middle.

6th grade this week had their end of the unit badminton test and finished class playing the real game of badminton.

7th/8th grade this week started a new unit. This week we began our games unit. This is where we play elementary types games as a fitness tool. The students are enjoying themselves but of course we're learning too. We have also been discussing the five levels of fitness especially muscular endurance and cardiovascular endurance!!

WEEK #13

1st grade students this week practiced the skill of rolling. They played Step Right Up where we discussed the difference between an exercise and a stretch. We then practiced the skill of rolling with our own bowling pins. We ended class by playing the activity called Blizzard.

3rd thru 5th grade went over the skill of throwing overhand. The activities the students participated in were Wipeout Tag to develop our cardiovascular endurance and Smash the Turkey where we used the skill of overhand throwing. We ended class with a cool down game called On the Line Off the Line.

7/8 grade students continued to work on community building activities. They participated in Bears, Salmon, and Mosquito. We ended class with a problem solving activity named Count Off.

WEEK #12

K4-2nd grade students celebrated Thanksgiving by participating in some activities where throwing overhand and catching were the focus!! These activities were called Partner Catch , Blizzard, and Try to Catch a Turkey.

3rd-5th grade students this week learned about body composition. The activities that were played were Body Fat Tag and Wipeout which are both great activities for enhancing your cardiovascular system.



6th grade continued to practice their badminton skills. They went over the overhead clear and serving. They finished up by playing the actual game of badminton. They seemed to really enjoy the game.


7th/8th grade this week started their unit on team building. The class participated in activities that included Good Morning, Rain Maker, and Group Catch. The focus is to build community in the classroom!!

WEEK #11

K4 thru 2nd grade this week improved their cardiovascular endurance with warm up activities called Give Me Ten, The Jumping Jack Song, and Wipeout (a movement game that uses the the song Wipeout by the Safari's. The K4 and K5 students also participated in an activity called Find a Friend where students learned how to find partners to play with. Rolling and throwing were the skills that were focused on this week.
3rd and 4th grade students participated in a math warm-up where adding, subtracting, and multiplication skills were used from the class room to get in shape. These grades also practiced their rolling skills and ended class with a rolling game called Fire Fighter.

5th and 6th grade did not have gym this week because of testing!!!!!

7th/8th grade students just started 2nd quarter physical education. The first two weeks we will be spending class time doing Team Building activities to foster community.

WEEK #10

K4 thru 2nd grade students participated in activities called Quick Draw (integrates math), Fire Fighter (which reinforces fire safety), Try to Catch a Turkey, and Dog Catcher. The physical skills taught during this week were overhand throwing , rolling, and chasing and fleeing.

3rd thru 5th grade students either participated in activities called Body Fat Tag, Cone Kickball, or Quick Draw. These activities focused on the skills of kicking, chasing and fleeing, as well as, learning the importance of how certain foods affect our body composition.

6th grade students have continued to develop their badminton skills with activities called Dead Fish, Ups, Super Ups, and Alternating Ups. These students are definitely getting better with striking with long handle implements.

7th/8th grade students this week are wrapping up with Pickleball and taking their end of the unit Pickleball test. This week is also the end of the first quarter for these students.

WEEK #8 - #9

HALLOWEEN OBSTACLE COURSE

K4 - 5th grade this week participated in the annual Halloween obstacle course!!! Students were reminded that during an obstacle course the whole body is needed to finish the course. Students were also reminded of the the five levels of fitness and were questioned frequently on which stations had certain levels of fitness. Because of the short week for teacher conventions, I start the course a week early so that all students can enjoy the course!!!




6th grade this week began learning the basic racket skills for badminton. We focused on racket and birdie fundamentals and ended class with a quick game of two-on-two knockout. Next week, we will continue practicing racket and birdie fundamentals while allowing more time to play two-on-two knockout.

7/8 grade is ending their unit on Pickleball. Pickelball is basically indoor tennis! Safety is strictly enforced and reminded daily!!! We will end with a final unit assessment.

WEEK #7

K -2nd grade students had the opportunity to do more foot skill practice because of some lucky sunny weather. We practiced dribbling, trapping, and kicking soccer balls. The activities we played were Bombs Away and Soccer Tag.

3rd - 5th grade students practiced their rolling skills in a game called Pin Guard and also developed their five levels of fitness with an activity called Knights. It is a game that really develops the cardiovascular system.

6th- 8th grade is continuing to learn and develop pickleball skills. The skills they are developing are the forehand, backhand, and one bounce serving techniques. These students are also continuing to improve their five levels of fitness. The activities we used to develop our fitness were Tag Team and Musical Fitness.

WEEK #6

K - 2nd grade students this week celebrated Halloween and Fire Safety week with activities that reinforced the important safety protocol of Stop, Drop and Roll. The activities were called Ghostbusters and Stop, Drop, and Roll Tag!!!

3rd - 5th grade students learned, practiced, and reviewed the physical skills of throwing and catching with activities called Jailbird, Sharks and Minnows, and Freeze Mania!!

6th - 8th grade students finished up flag football and began to start pickleball and group activities that foster teamwork and are just plain fun. Also, students had the opportunity to develop their five levels of fitness by using the new resistance bands that we received. Fun was had by all.

WEEK #5

K-2nd grade students are participating in either manipulation of yarn balls, fitness puzzles, monster tag, a dance song called "Singing in the Rain", and Jailbird, a throwing , catching, and rolling activity. We had a blast this week. KEEP MOVING!!!!!


3rd-5th grade students participated in throwing and catching activities such as modified flag football, Freeze Mania, Sharks and Minnows, and Pass and Run.

6th -8th grade students continued to practice and develop their personal fitness with Cardiovascular and Muscular Strength and Endurance activities. Student also kept practicing their throwing, catching, offensive, and defensive strategies by playing in a modified flag football activity.

WEEK #4

K-2nd grade students this week learned about being in self space and moving in general space. Deck rings were used to practice this important concept. Soccer was also introduced where we learned and practiced the skills of dribbling and kicking with movement activities called the Fox and The Hound and Pirates.

3rd-4th grade students worked on team building activities with a swim noodle. We played movement activities called Tug a Noodle, Leaning Tower of Noodle, and Mosquito Tag. Students had the opportunity to play with different kids in their class to understand and practice that agroup is only as strong as it members.
5th-8th grade students continued to learn about Cardiovascular Endurance and Muscular Strength and Endurance during personal Fitness Time!!! Then, students had the opportunity to practice and develop Flag Football skills such as throwing and catching with the concept of offense and defense. Fifth grade has played modified football activities with the same concepts in mind.

WEEK #3

K-2nd grade students experienced manipulating bean bags, poly spots, and playing simple tag games like Freeze Tag, Mosquito Tag, and practicing getting into group with a game called Body Parts. Fun was had by all.

3rd - 5th grade continued to learn and experience team building and cooperative activities such as Pass the Chicken, The Leaning Tower of Noodles, The Tug of Noodle, and Partner Rock, Paper, and Scissors!! This was a fun week of learning!!!!

6th -8th grade students are beginning to learn, relearn, or master the football throw and catch. Students got into partner groups and started to help each other practice and develop the necessary skills to play modified football type activities!!

WEEK #2

K-2nd grade students were exposed to activities that encourage helping and getting into groups. These students also started to manipulate poly spots into fun exercises. They also played a game call "Freeze" where students are encouraged to help and say please and thank you!!

This week the 3rd-8th grade students were exposed to some team building and classroom community activities. Here students are learning each others names in an activity that is both fun and educational.

WEEK #1

During the first week of school, Fairview students were introduced to the classroom expectations and procedures. As always, I incorporated some movement activities while we learned the classroom protocols. Also, this year I'm looking to upgrade all my music from tapes and cd's to an ipod. I would like to upgrade all my music and go completely digital. I'm also looking to upgrade the music play selections. If you have any music that you would like to hear during your physical education class, please bring a CD with your music and I will download it onto my ipod. Exercising to music is a great way to keep motivated. And it's just plain more fun. KEEP MOVING!!!!!!!!

Fairview Students Exercising!!!

KEEP MOVING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My New Website

Thank you for visiting my NEW website. Throughout the 2008/2009 school year, I will be posting what is being covered in your child's Physical Education class. I will also be posting the new monthly Physical Activity & Health newsletters. It's my way of going green and helping our planet! Make sure to visit often as I will constantly be adding new material to the site throughout the school year!