Physical literacy is the ability, confidence, and desire to be physically active for life.
-SHAPE America 2015
ELEMENTARY
The elementary physical education program in Baltimore County Public Schools develops the “whole child” in the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains. It is the foundation for developing social and motor skills that enable students to move and actively participate in games, sports, and fitness activities. Students work toward mastering a variety of fundamental movement skills, manipulative skills, creative movement experiences, as well as applying basic fitness principles. Opportunities are provided for maximum participation in class and for all students to achieve personal success.
MIDDLE
The middle school physical education program is built around the application of skills learned in the elementary years. Students are exposed to a variety of individual and team sports, cooperative, and outdoor/adventure activities, as well as fitness activities. Emphasis is placed on refining game skills/play, problem-solving strategies through the application of game concepts, increasing knowledge of personal fitness, and developing appropriate social skills. All students are afforded opportunities to become physically literate individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of healthful physical activity.
HIGH
The high school physical education course, Fitness Foundations/Fitness Mastery, focuses on the planning and implementation of lifetime physical activity goals. Students extend and apply skills from previous years, demonstrate competency in lifetime activities, and develop a personal fitness plan. Students are encouraged to participate in courses in the elective program to maintain and enhance their personal fitness levels while enjoying lifelong activities. Ultimately, BCPS students will appreciate the importance of personal fitness and pursue a lifestyle of optimal health and wellness.
ADAPTED PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Adapted physical education is a specially designed program for a student with a disability who is unable to meet grade-level standards. Students are identified by having difficulties in the physical,social-emotional, or cognitive areas and may qualify to receive services through the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. Adapted physical education is a direct instructional service that can be provided in the general education environment, the special education environment or a combination of both.
The Strands of Instruction provide a variety of activities for the students to experience within their physical education classes.
BCPS Physical Education Strands of instruction
Baltimore County Schools Physical Education follows the SHAPE America National Standards and Outcomes for instruction. Within the National Standards and Outcomes, Baltimore County Physical Education has identified a few of the outcomes that are essential for each grade level.
BCPS PE Grade Level Outcomes: (Click on the grade level)
Elementary School
Kindergarten
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Middle School
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 8
High School
Fitness Foundations/Fitness Mastery (Required Course)
Weight Training (Elective)