Standards

SHAPE America’s National Physical Education Standards define what a student should know and be able to do as result of a highly effective physical education program.  The National Physical Education Standards provide a comprehensive framework for educators to deliver high-quality instruction and make a positive difference in the health and well-being of every student.  Physical literacy is the ability to move with competence and confidence in a wide variety of physical activities in multiple environments that benefit the healthy development of the whole person (Mandigo, Francis, Lodewyk, & Lopez, 2012).

Physical education provides content and instruction designed for the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains to develop motor skills, knowledge, and behaviors for physical activity and physical fitness. 

National Physical Education Standards

Standard 1: Develops a variety of motor skills.

• Rationale: Through learning experiences in physical education, the student develops motor skills across a variety of environments. Motor skills are a foundational part of child development and support the movements of everyday life. The development of motor skills contributes to an individual’s physical literacy journey.

Standard 2: Applies knowledge related to movement and fitness concepts.

• Rationale: Through learning experiences in physical education, the student uses their knowledge of movement concepts, tactics, and strategies across a variety of environments. This knowledge helps the student become a more versatile and efficient mover. Additionally, the student applies knowledge of health-related and skill-related fitness to enhance their overall well-being. The application of knowledge related to various forms of movement contributes to an individual’s physical literacy journey.

Standard 3: Develops social skills through movement.

• Rationale: Through learning experiences in physical education, students develop the social skills necessary to exhibit empathy and respect for others and foster and maintain relationships. In addition, students develop skills for communication, leadership, cultural awareness, and conflict resolution in a variety of physical activity settings.

Standard 4: Develops personal skills, identifies personal benefits of movement, and chooses to engage in physical activity.

• Rationale: Through learning experiences in physical education, the student develops an understanding of how movement is personally beneficial and subsequently chooses to participate in physical activities that are personally meaningful (e.g., activities that offer social interaction, cultural connection, exploration, choice, self-expression, appropriate levels of challenge, and added health benefits). The student develops personal skills including goal setting, identifying strengths, and reflection to enhance their physical literacy journey.

Grade Level Outcomes K-12 – Description of all required knowledge and skills for each grade.