Secondary Methods in Physical Education (Spring 2025)

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course will give students an understanding of the changing scope of secondary physical education (SPE) in an era of education reform. Students will learn about a variety of curricular models and styles. In addition, students will increase their understanding of technology use and authentic assessments in physical education. Students will not only focus on increasing the physical activity levels of secondary students during physical education, they will also learn about promoting physical activity outside of the school setting. This course will also cover strategies for advocating the importance of quality physical education to school and district personnel, during a time when local administrators are pressured to allocate more time to core subject areas.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Identify the purposes, benefits, and objectives of a secondary school physical education program.
2. Be able to communicate the need and value of a secondary school physical education program and advocate for the profession.
3. Develop a semester plan for secondary school students using one or more curricular models and address State Standards.
4. Design learning plans that are aligned to national and state standards and the district curriculum, incorporate literacy strategies, and allow for differentiation for students.

READINGS and INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCES:

All course materials (PowerPoints, articles, web links, etc.) will be uploaded in the course or available online for students to access to complete the course assignments efficiently and effectively. All of the assignment descriptions contain links for reading material and/or videos.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

In order to receive a passing grade, the participant must complete the following course requirements:

1. Activities: A number of different learning activities will ensure participant engagement and learning in the course. These include:

1. Culminating Project: The final project is a completed unit plan that includes state standards, assessments (both formative and summative), course objectives, detailed lesson plans and instructional strategies. This will be developed throughout the course and will be peer reviewed. This project is a significant piece of work that will demonstrate participants’ ability to transfer their learning into the context of their classrooms. All of the learning objectives (identified above) will be assessed through this project.
2. Discussion Board: You will be involved in five discussion board conversations and expected to post to receive credit. Each post is worth 10 points for a total of 50 points or approximately 20% of your final grade.