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our eighth grade program

Physical Education

In Physical Education, the essential question focus for Eighth Graders is threefold:

  • “What role can I take in class leadership and assisting others?”
  • “How can I continue to make healthy lifestyle choices?”
  • “How can I nurture my athletic identity into high school?”

Students begin the fall semester with a focus on cooperative games; review of responsive classroom: techniques for proper warm-up with a focus on heart rate and flexibility; and set fitness goals for the year. They also take the Fitnessgram test to assess and to measure their level of fitness and allow them to set future goals.

Students not only monitor their own fitness level but also create a fitness program for someone else – a peer, sibling, parent or willing staff member. The students learn the components of a fitness program, how to monitor blood pressure and heart rate, implement a fitness test consisting of a 12-minute step test, flexibility, abdominal and upper body strength. Students create a fitness program based on the assessment and needs of their client. During the nutrition unit, students integrate their science studies to create a healthy restaurant menu.

Eighth Grade students continue to work on Target Heart Rate and the F.I.T.T principle for specific activities. The tennis and softball units allow for more game and tournament play. The Eighth Grade students take part in a challenging class event, the Navy Run, Jump and Throw Competition. In the spring, students review their fitness goals from the fall, retake the Fitnessgram, and assess their results. Students in the Eighth Grade are also given an opportunity to discuss high school sports and establish a summer training program.