Research on physical education curriculum using “skill theme” proposed by Graham et al.
Considerations of elementary school Physical Fitness curriculum design
2020 Volume 39 Issue 2 Pages 27-39
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2020 Volume 39 Issue 2 Pages 27-39
In this paper, I examine the curriculum theory using “skill theme” and aim to develop strategies regarding “Physical Fitness” course. In this paper, I highlight three design problems from discussion about Physical Fitness: (1) Content organization (knowledge and skills), (2) purpose and application tasks, and (3) annual planning. Graham et al. emphasized that it is important for children to learn motor skills as physical education. Graham et al. further showed how to design a curriculum using “the wheel” consisting of skill themes and movement concepts. A review of “skill theme” approach proposed by Graham et al. provides strategies to address the three design problems: (1) organizing the content of Physical Fitness by combining the skills and concepts of the wheel shown by Graham et al., (2) standing on the view that each child has various skill levels, letting them explore a combination of skills and concepts, and setting challenges to create games and dance activities, or to maneuver the body more effectively in gymnastics, outside existing sports events, (3) treat one skill in a short time, pick up various skills and concepts throughout the year, and deepen in a spiral across school years. These methods of “skill theme” are valuable in considering the curriculum design of Physical Fitness course activities.
