November has been an exciting and active month in Physical Education! Students in grades 2nd to 5th have been improving their throwing and catching skills through a variety of lead-up games and skill stations. We focused on proper form and communicating with teammates to be successful in small-group challenges.
Throwing :
- Throw with dominant hand
- Side to target, feet apart
- Aim
- Step forward with opposite foot of throwing hand.
- Release
- Follow through
Team Handball
Our 4th and 5th graders began their FitnessGram assessments. Students learned what each component measures—cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and overall fitness—and approached each task with effort and a growth mindset. We emphasized doing their personal best and understanding how fitness connects to lifelong health.
15 Meter Pacer Test
To celebrate the season, we brought Thanksgiving-themed movement into the gym. Students shared what they are grateful for during warm-ups, highlighting family, friends, teachers, and even PE class! One of the biggest highlights was our “Turkey Trot,” where students completed laps around the gym. Each time they finished a lap, they earned a popsicle stick that became a “feather” for their team’s turkey. Teams worked together to design and build their turkeys using the sticks they collected—promoting teamwork, creativity, and fitness all in one activity.
Next Unit: Floorball
As we head into December, we are excited to begin our Floorball Unit, a fast-paced, safe, and inclusive activity similar to indoor hockey.
Students will learn:
- Proper grip and control of the floor ball stick
- Dribble (stick-handling) and passing
- Shooting with accuracy and control
- Teamwork and communication in gameplay
How Students Can Practice These Skills at Home
Students can reinforce what we learn in class with simple, safe activities at home:
- Stick-handling with a household item: Use a broomstick, cardboard tube, or pool noodle to practice control using a soft ball or crumpled paper.
- Passing practice: Gently pass a soft ball to a family member, or pass to a wall and trap the ball.
- Target shooting: Set up small goals using shoe boxes, water bottles and practice accuracy using rolled socks or a soft indoor ball.
- Movement and agility: Practice quick starts, stops, and changes of direction in a safe open space.
- Fitness: Jogging or walking with family helps build endurance for Physical Education activities.