Lower School Physical Education Curriculum
The Lower School Physical Education department’s philosophy is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain a state of physical fitness, “not for school, but for life.” Our curriculum is an age appropriate, carefully planned series of units that spiral from year to year as students develop their physical capabilities. In an atmosphere of cooperation and respect, and using the National Standards of Physical Education as its’ guiding force, the students are given many opportunities to grow and develop through a multitude of activities.
Montessori and Kindergarteners explore their skills through rhythms, balance, spatial awareness, and controlling their bodies in various play settings. Some of the activities you may see these students doing are yoga, using scooters and parachutes and playing with a multitude of balls and beanbags.
First through Third Graders continue to learn how their bodies move through such activities as dance, tumbling, juggling and the beginning development of skills in team and individual sports. Rock Climbing and Team Challenges are favorites at Visitation with this age.
Fourth and Fifth Graders can be found refining their skills in team and individual sports while also learning the elements of rules and strategy that go along with these activities. Learning to stretch and expand their abilities is encouraged at this time. Realizing what it takes to be healthy and how to stay active are key focuses of this age.
Fitness levels of students in grades three through five are assessed bi-annually utilizing the FitnessGram battery of tests to record and track their progress for healthy living.
All students have access to and are able to utilize our wonderful gyms and equipment (no waiting in line to play!) and outdoor venues such as soccer and softball fields, tennis courts and hiking paths.
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Lower School Physical Education teacher
| Marth Conners
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B.A. Physical Education
College of St. Thomas
M.A. Curriculum and Instruction
University of St. Thomas
At Visitation since 2006
| Martha Conner's Web page
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