Grade 3 - Physical Education
Physical Education in 3rd Grade
The Westerly Physical Education program uses the SPARK Physical Education program which is based on the
Shape National Standards as well as the California Content Standards for Physical Education.
Philosophy
Westerly’s physical education program is based on inclusivity, fitness, and sportsmanship in which students are exposed to a wide variety of sports, as well as non-traditional games, and cooperative activities to enhance their social-emotional learning, communication, and teamwork abilities. We recognize that physical education is integral to developing the whole-child development and our PE Program is designed to support each child though opportunities to develop both their bodies and minds.
Throughout their K-8th grade years, students access and engage in life skills beyond fitness and physical activity: collaboration and sportsmanship, perseverance and discipline, positive choice-making, and adaptability to structure and discipline.
Students will learn to develop patterns and combinations of movements using locomotor and non-locomotor skills, as well as manipulate objects in and through space, with both speed and accuracy. Students also demonstrate the correct techniques for using manipulatives including throwing, catching, striking, kicking, trapping, and dribbling. Third through Fifth grade students continue to learn fitness concepts, and participate in a variety of fitness development exercises. Working together as part of a group, students will learn to appreciate personal differences and value the rights of others.
Students in third grade will:
- Demonstrate chasing and fleeing skills in a constantly changing environment
- Describe how changing speed and direction can allow one person to move away from another
- Jump a self-turned rope
- Be able to roll and throw an object for accuracy at both stationary and moving targets.
- Catch objects while both stationary and moving
- Identify key elements for increasing accuracy when rolling and throwing
- Explain differences between throwing to a stationary target versus a moving target
- Be able to change directions while dribbling with both hands and feet
- Explain the differences between dribbling with the hands and feet
- Explain the purpose of warming up before activity and cooling down after
- Sustain continuous movement while participating in vigorous cardiovascular exercise
- Participate in activities involving cooperation and communication to achieve a common goal
- Demonstrate respect for individual differences in physical activities