Physical Education Archive
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As mandated by the state, all students in grades 5-8 must be screened for scoliosis each year. We do this as part of our Physical Education program. If we suspect something, we will refer the student to the nurse for a second opinion. If your child has already been screened as part of his/her physical exam, please send in a copy of the physical or a note stating so. If students provide us with a note, they will not have to be screened during class.
Any student wishing to try out for the Pierce Coed Indoor Soccer team must register on familyID.com and provide a copy of a current (within the past 13 months) physical exam prior to the start of tryouts. Click here for a full list of sports opportunities at Pierce |
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PE Update – February 2016
Kindergarten – Grade 2
Students have been working on overhand throwing technique. We have taught the students the proper steps in an overhand throw (ball away, T, Arm Up, Step, Turn + Throw, Follow through) We have practiced this throw in different games and activities. This week we have practiced volleying + striking beach balls to teammates and over the net (balloons for kindergarten). Both activities work on improving hand-eye coordination.
Grades 3-8
We have been working on volleyball skills (bump, set, serve) and many grades have been playing games while 3rd grade play a modified game called Newcombe where they are allowed to catch the ball and set to a teammate before setting it over the net. Grades 7+8 have had the option to use the fitness center instead of volleyball and many have been working hard - the record being 45 min in their target heart rate zone.
PE Update – January 2016
Kindergarten – Grade 2
To start off the New Year, we are focused on jumping and landing. We have been practicing the difference between JUMPING (off of two feet onto two feet), HOPPING (jumping off of one foot onto the same foot) and LEAPING (off of one foot landing onto the other). We are experimenting going over objects of different heights, widths and in different ways. Try to practice with different objects at home with your son or daughter!
Grades 3-8
We have begun our basketball unit to start off the New Year. Younger grades will practice skills such as dribbling, shooting, passing before they get to small sided games. Older grades get into games quicker and also have the option to opt out if they don't enjoy basketball, opting to exercise in the fitness center instead. Heart rate monitors are worn by students in the fitness center so they can judge their effort and know if they are improving their heart strength.
This year, parents will receive their children’s Fitness Gram reports (our annual physical fitness assessment) via email. Please keep your eyes out for them and review them with your child so they can better understand their fitness levels.
PE Update – December 2015
Grades K-2 we have been working on hand-eye coordination: rolling/ bowling, catching, underhand tossing and eventually overhand throwing as well.
Grades 3-4 have been having fun with our “exergaming” unit. This involves exercising and moving using different video games and apps. Students have been having a lot of fun while playing Dance Dance Revolution, Just Dance, fitness apps like Dungeon Runner and challenge videos such as Super 7s.
Grades 5-8 have started with the annual fitness assessment, FitnessGram. All Brookline students complete this assessment once a year and will receive reports via email (new this year). We ask that you keep an eye out and review the results of the assessment with your child. Results should be coming out early January. Should you have any questions about your child’s report, feel free to e-mail any one of the PE teachers.
Our last fitness challenge (Partner plank high fives) for grades 3-6 was won by 4H! Congratulations to all those who practiced and improved. Our next fitness challenge is a tough one: partner wall sits. It takes a lot of practice to get right, so encourage your son/ daughter to practice at home!
PE Update – October 2015
We have had a great start to the year in physical education. All of the students are excited to come to class and are working hard.
We would like to welcome Mark Whitman to our P.E. team, who has joined Pierce in a part-time role to teach P.E. and Health. Mark teaches at Heath and Driscoll as well. We are excited to have him and he has been a great addition to our team!
The annual cross country meet is this Thursday, October 15th at Lars Anderson Park. We have over 100 runners in grades 5-8 representing Pierce this year! Any parent willing/able to help out at the meet would be greatly appreciated. Helping the runners make sure they get to the starting line at the correct time is the biggest responsibility. If you would like to help out, please e-mail one of the P.E. teachers.
In grades K-2, we have been exploring personal and general space as well as moving in various pathways. Please have your child wear their sneakers on their P.E. days!
We have introduced the sport of rugby to the students in grades 3-8. The classes seem interested and excited about learning about the sport. We are also teaching units of football and soccer this fall.
After School Sports has begun on Thursday and Friday afternoons. This is a time for students in grades 4th grade and up to come to the gym to get some extra time in the gym. The first part is typically some free play followed by a large group game that is selected by the kids. There is no sign up or fee associated with this program. Students are welcome to come whenever they choose.
PE Update - September 2015
CROSS COUNTRY IS COMING!
Thurs., 10/15 or Fri., 10/16 @ Larz Anderson
Cross country is a district-wide meet where students compete in a 1-mile race against other students of the same grade and gender at Larz Anderson. It will take place on Thursday October 15th with a rain date of Friday October 16th. It is open to all students in grades 5-8. The only requirements are that the student 1) sign up in the gym, 2) bring in a signed permission slip by Fri., 10/9 and 3) have prepared physically for the meet. To show us a student has prepared, they can either come to at least 2 of the 6 practices offered here (dates below) OR fill out a running log that is signed by parents that show at least 4 different ways they have exercised outside of school.
Cross country packets that include the permission slip are available in the gym. Your child's P.E. teachers will also be explaining this to students in class.
PRACTICE DATES:
Mon., 9/28 2:30-3:30
Tues., 9/29 2:30-3:30
Mon., 10/5 2:30-3:30
Wed., 10/7 7:00-7:55am
Thurs., 10/8 2:30-3:30
Tues. 10/13 2:30-3:30
PE Update – May 2015
April was a month of dance and yoga – the 8th grade students even came up with their own dance routines.
In May, the focus will be Track and Field. 5th and 6th graders who made the team will go to a track meet on Monday, 5/18 (rain date Tuesday, 5/19). The 7th and 8th grade track team has a meet on Wednesday, 5/20 (rain date 5/21).
It is getting warmer outside and children are beginning to wear sandals. As a reminder, please make sure that students come to school with sneakers on P.E. days for their safety.
PE Update - March 2015
All students have been actively engaged in our gymnastics unit for the past two weeks, and will continue this unit for one more week. Students can choose from many options:
Grades K-2
We are focusing primarily on tumbling and balancing. Students are practicing transferring their weight to different body parts through log rolls, egg rolls, cartwheels, round-offs, handstands, and headstands. Students can challenge their dynamic balance on our three balance beams, while the uneven bars, rings, and two climbing ropes are a great way for students to build strength and challenge themselves.
Grades 3-5
Students have all the above choices, with the addition of an arm-wrestling station where they can challenge their classmates, a vaulting box, and two slack-lines (grades 4&5).
Grades 6-8
Students have all the above options, as well as some strength training with hand weights, a bench press, and a boxing station. The fitness center is also open for optional use (grades 7 & 8).
Coming up next week, before our April vacation: Dance & Yoga!
PE Update - February 2015
Grades K-2
Students recently concluded a unit on overhand throwing and underhand tossing. Students practiced these skills in class, then used their skills in various games and stations. This week they are working on their jumping and leaping skills. Coming up, we will be beginning our gymnastics unit, which is always a favorite among the students!
Grades 3-8
Students have just finished their basketball unit, where they worked on dribbling, passing and shooting prior to playing games in class. Currently they are in the midst of their floor hockey unit. Students in middle school have had the opportunity to "opt out" of basketball and/or floor hockey to work out in the Fitness Center. While working out, they have been using heart-rate monitors to help monitor their workout level. During our gymnastics unit, the middle school will also have a strength training option in which they can get some great exercise.
PLEASE remember to send your child with sneakers on their P.E. days! With all the snow and cold weather, we have had lots of kids come to class with snow boots. We do have our "sneaker closet" that the children can borrow shoes from, but this takes time out of their class to change their shoes. Speaking of which, we are in need of some smaller-sized, gently worn sneakers to equip our “sneaker closet.” If you have any sneakers your child has outgrown and would like to donate them to us, we would greatly appreciate it! Thank you, the PE Team.
Kindergarten – Grade 2
Students have been working on overhand throwing technique. We have taught the students the proper steps in an overhand throw (ball away, T, Arm Up, Step, Turn + Throw, Follow through) We have practiced this throw in different games and activities. This week we have practiced volleying + striking beach balls to teammates and over the net (balloons for kindergarten). Both activities work on improving hand-eye coordination.
Grades 3-8
We have been working on volleyball skills (bump, set, serve) and many grades have been playing games while 3rd grade play a modified game called Newcombe where they are allowed to catch the ball and set to a teammate before setting it over the net. Grades 7+8 have had the option to use the fitness center instead of volleyball and many have been working hard - the record being 45 min in their target heart rate zone.
PE Update – January 2016
Kindergarten – Grade 2
To start off the New Year, we are focused on jumping and landing. We have been practicing the difference between JUMPING (off of two feet onto two feet), HOPPING (jumping off of one foot onto the same foot) and LEAPING (off of one foot landing onto the other). We are experimenting going over objects of different heights, widths and in different ways. Try to practice with different objects at home with your son or daughter!
Grades 3-8
We have begun our basketball unit to start off the New Year. Younger grades will practice skills such as dribbling, shooting, passing before they get to small sided games. Older grades get into games quicker and also have the option to opt out if they don't enjoy basketball, opting to exercise in the fitness center instead. Heart rate monitors are worn by students in the fitness center so they can judge their effort and know if they are improving their heart strength.
This year, parents will receive their children’s Fitness Gram reports (our annual physical fitness assessment) via email. Please keep your eyes out for them and review them with your child so they can better understand their fitness levels.
PE Update – December 2015
Grades K-2 we have been working on hand-eye coordination: rolling/ bowling, catching, underhand tossing and eventually overhand throwing as well.
Grades 3-4 have been having fun with our “exergaming” unit. This involves exercising and moving using different video games and apps. Students have been having a lot of fun while playing Dance Dance Revolution, Just Dance, fitness apps like Dungeon Runner and challenge videos such as Super 7s.
Grades 5-8 have started with the annual fitness assessment, FitnessGram. All Brookline students complete this assessment once a year and will receive reports via email (new this year). We ask that you keep an eye out and review the results of the assessment with your child. Results should be coming out early January. Should you have any questions about your child’s report, feel free to e-mail any one of the PE teachers.
Our last fitness challenge (Partner plank high fives) for grades 3-6 was won by 4H! Congratulations to all those who practiced and improved. Our next fitness challenge is a tough one: partner wall sits. It takes a lot of practice to get right, so encourage your son/ daughter to practice at home!
PE Update – October 2015
We have had a great start to the year in physical education. All of the students are excited to come to class and are working hard.
We would like to welcome Mark Whitman to our P.E. team, who has joined Pierce in a part-time role to teach P.E. and Health. Mark teaches at Heath and Driscoll as well. We are excited to have him and he has been a great addition to our team!
The annual cross country meet is this Thursday, October 15th at Lars Anderson Park. We have over 100 runners in grades 5-8 representing Pierce this year! Any parent willing/able to help out at the meet would be greatly appreciated. Helping the runners make sure they get to the starting line at the correct time is the biggest responsibility. If you would like to help out, please e-mail one of the P.E. teachers.
In grades K-2, we have been exploring personal and general space as well as moving in various pathways. Please have your child wear their sneakers on their P.E. days!
We have introduced the sport of rugby to the students in grades 3-8. The classes seem interested and excited about learning about the sport. We are also teaching units of football and soccer this fall.
After School Sports has begun on Thursday and Friday afternoons. This is a time for students in grades 4th grade and up to come to the gym to get some extra time in the gym. The first part is typically some free play followed by a large group game that is selected by the kids. There is no sign up or fee associated with this program. Students are welcome to come whenever they choose.
PE Update - September 2015
CROSS COUNTRY IS COMING!
Thurs., 10/15 or Fri., 10/16 @ Larz Anderson
Cross country is a district-wide meet where students compete in a 1-mile race against other students of the same grade and gender at Larz Anderson. It will take place on Thursday October 15th with a rain date of Friday October 16th. It is open to all students in grades 5-8. The only requirements are that the student 1) sign up in the gym, 2) bring in a signed permission slip by Fri., 10/9 and 3) have prepared physically for the meet. To show us a student has prepared, they can either come to at least 2 of the 6 practices offered here (dates below) OR fill out a running log that is signed by parents that show at least 4 different ways they have exercised outside of school.
Cross country packets that include the permission slip are available in the gym. Your child's P.E. teachers will also be explaining this to students in class.
PRACTICE DATES:
Mon., 9/28 2:30-3:30
Tues., 9/29 2:30-3:30
Mon., 10/5 2:30-3:30
Wed., 10/7 7:00-7:55am
Thurs., 10/8 2:30-3:30
Tues. 10/13 2:30-3:30
PE Update – May 2015
April was a month of dance and yoga – the 8th grade students even came up with their own dance routines.
In May, the focus will be Track and Field. 5th and 6th graders who made the team will go to a track meet on Monday, 5/18 (rain date Tuesday, 5/19). The 7th and 8th grade track team has a meet on Wednesday, 5/20 (rain date 5/21).
It is getting warmer outside and children are beginning to wear sandals. As a reminder, please make sure that students come to school with sneakers on P.E. days for their safety.
PE Update - March 2015
All students have been actively engaged in our gymnastics unit for the past two weeks, and will continue this unit for one more week. Students can choose from many options:
Grades K-2
We are focusing primarily on tumbling and balancing. Students are practicing transferring their weight to different body parts through log rolls, egg rolls, cartwheels, round-offs, handstands, and headstands. Students can challenge their dynamic balance on our three balance beams, while the uneven bars, rings, and two climbing ropes are a great way for students to build strength and challenge themselves.
Grades 3-5
Students have all the above choices, with the addition of an arm-wrestling station where they can challenge their classmates, a vaulting box, and two slack-lines (grades 4&5).
Grades 6-8
Students have all the above options, as well as some strength training with hand weights, a bench press, and a boxing station. The fitness center is also open for optional use (grades 7 & 8).
Coming up next week, before our April vacation: Dance & Yoga!
PE Update - February 2015
Grades K-2
Students recently concluded a unit on overhand throwing and underhand tossing. Students practiced these skills in class, then used their skills in various games and stations. This week they are working on their jumping and leaping skills. Coming up, we will be beginning our gymnastics unit, which is always a favorite among the students!
Grades 3-8
Students have just finished their basketball unit, where they worked on dribbling, passing and shooting prior to playing games in class. Currently they are in the midst of their floor hockey unit. Students in middle school have had the opportunity to "opt out" of basketball and/or floor hockey to work out in the Fitness Center. While working out, they have been using heart-rate monitors to help monitor their workout level. During our gymnastics unit, the middle school will also have a strength training option in which they can get some great exercise.
PLEASE remember to send your child with sneakers on their P.E. days! With all the snow and cold weather, we have had lots of kids come to class with snow boots. We do have our "sneaker closet" that the children can borrow shoes from, but this takes time out of their class to change their shoes. Speaking of which, we are in need of some smaller-sized, gently worn sneakers to equip our “sneaker closet.” If you have any sneakers your child has outgrown and would like to donate them to us, we would greatly appreciate it! Thank you, the PE Team.
PE Update - December 2014
Grades K-2 have been focusing on hand-eye coordination. We have been working on rolling/ bowling, catching, and underhand tossing, and will be getting to overhand throwing as well.
Grades 3 & 4 have been having fun doing an exer-gaming unit. It is our first time teaching this unit, which involves exercising and moving with different video games and apps. Students have been having a lot of fun while playing Dance Dance Revolution, Just Dance, Xbox Kinnect, and other fitness apps.
Grades 5-8 have been doing fitness tests for the annual FitnessGram assessment. All students in Brookline complete this annual assessment once a year, and reports will be sent home and discussed with students in late January or early February. Should you have any questions about your son or daughter’s report, ask them first (as we do go over it in class) or e-mail any one of the PE teachers. Girls in grade 8 are completing a self-defense course offered by Brookline Police Department.
And Congratulations… Last month’s (November) fitness challenge was jumping rope. We had 3 students in grades 3-6 who made it to level 5 (5min +). Congratulations to Aine Downey, Amina Irizarry-Nones, and Justin Aronson!! 6F had the most total minutes, so they are housing the fitness challenge trophy for now…. until the next challenge in January. Great job 6F!!!
Grades K-2 have been focusing on hand-eye coordination. We have been working on rolling/ bowling, catching, and underhand tossing, and will be getting to overhand throwing as well.
Grades 3 & 4 have been having fun doing an exer-gaming unit. It is our first time teaching this unit, which involves exercising and moving with different video games and apps. Students have been having a lot of fun while playing Dance Dance Revolution, Just Dance, Xbox Kinnect, and other fitness apps.
Grades 5-8 have been doing fitness tests for the annual FitnessGram assessment. All students in Brookline complete this annual assessment once a year, and reports will be sent home and discussed with students in late January or early February. Should you have any questions about your son or daughter’s report, ask them first (as we do go over it in class) or e-mail any one of the PE teachers. Girls in grade 8 are completing a self-defense course offered by Brookline Police Department.
And Congratulations… Last month’s (November) fitness challenge was jumping rope. We had 3 students in grades 3-6 who made it to level 5 (5min +). Congratulations to Aine Downey, Amina Irizarry-Nones, and Justin Aronson!! 6F had the most total minutes, so they are housing the fitness challenge trophy for now…. until the next challenge in January. Great job 6F!!!
PE Update - November 2014
K-2:
We have been working on moving in our different levels: low, medium and high. We have played some fun games using the different levels and pathways we have learned in P.E. so far.
3-5:
We have begun our Team Building unit, during which the students learn to work cooperatively in small and large groups. It is a really fun unit and the students have done a great job working well with each other! Students competed in our Fitness Challenge of the Month: seeing how long they could hold the plank position. Congratulations to Ms. Balzano's class, where nine students reached the top level of three minutes - they will house the Pierce School Fitness Challenge trophy for November! This month’s challenge is jumping rope.
6-8:
Students have been playing soccer and team handball as well as working out in the Pierce School Fitness Center. 7/8 basketball tryouts will begin the first week of December. All parents should have received an email from Mr. Miceli regarding this opportunity. If you did not and your child is interested in trying out, please contact him at michael_miceli@brookline.k12.ma.us The boys will be coached by Billy Harris, girls by Kindergarten teacher Lauren Kelly.
K-2:
We have been working on moving in our different levels: low, medium and high. We have played some fun games using the different levels and pathways we have learned in P.E. so far.
3-5:
We have begun our Team Building unit, during which the students learn to work cooperatively in small and large groups. It is a really fun unit and the students have done a great job working well with each other! Students competed in our Fitness Challenge of the Month: seeing how long they could hold the plank position. Congratulations to Ms. Balzano's class, where nine students reached the top level of three minutes - they will house the Pierce School Fitness Challenge trophy for November! This month’s challenge is jumping rope.
6-8:
Students have been playing soccer and team handball as well as working out in the Pierce School Fitness Center. 7/8 basketball tryouts will begin the first week of December. All parents should have received an email from Mr. Miceli regarding this opportunity. If you did not and your child is interested in trying out, please contact him at michael_miceli@brookline.k12.ma.us The boys will be coached by Billy Harris, girls by Kindergarten teacher Lauren Kelly.
PE Update - October 2014
K-Grade 2
We are working on personal space and general space, and are exploring different locomotor movements paired with pathways in creative movement activities and games.
Grades 3-5
We will be introducing students to the basic skills of soccer and football, and allowing them to get outside as much as possible before the weather begins to turn.
Grades 6-8
We will be focusing on fitness; we’ll also be playing organized games of soccer and football, focusing more on the rules of the game.
REMEMBER: cross-country meet on Thurs., 10/16 (rain date Fri., 10/17)! If your child is planning on going, make sure he/she brings water and a bag lunch, preferably something disposable so there will be less to remember after the meet.
K-Grade 2
We are working on personal space and general space, and are exploring different locomotor movements paired with pathways in creative movement activities and games.
Grades 3-5
We will be introducing students to the basic skills of soccer and football, and allowing them to get outside as much as possible before the weather begins to turn.
Grades 6-8
We will be focusing on fitness; we’ll also be playing organized games of soccer and football, focusing more on the rules of the game.
REMEMBER: cross-country meet on Thurs., 10/16 (rain date Fri., 10/17)! If your child is planning on going, make sure he/she brings water and a bag lunch, preferably something disposable so there will be less to remember after the meet.
PE Update - September 2014
We’re off to an exciting start in Physical Education this year! We’re delighted to welcome new P.E and 8th grade Health teacher, Ms. Plamondon, and we’re implementing monthly fitness challenges for grades 3-6. In the September/October challenge, students will see how long they can hold a PLANK position. Students will assess their levels next week, and through increased practice and hard work see how many levels they can advance until the final challenge at the end of October. Go ahead and practice it with your child!!
Grades K-2: we are working on the difference between personal and general space, and learning how to keep self-space safe and avoid others while moving. This skill will help students in all tag games we play throughout the year.
Grades 3-5: we are reviewing a variety of playground games kids can play at recess. We teach all students the basic rules, “Pierce Gym Rules,” for the most popular recess games. That said, kids are encouraged to change the rules as long as the changes are communicated to everyone to ensure fair play.
Grades 6-8: we are reviewing how to use our heart rate monitors, which we’ll use in the fitness center. We surveyed students about their favorite units or sports, and will use the survey results to help plan our year’s curriculum; we also wanted to give students an option to “opt out” of a sport that they do not enjoy, in order to try and maximize activity level and exercise time in class. If students choose to opt out, they will use the fitness center with a goal of exercising in their target heart rate zone for a certain period of time.
Notices:
We’re off to an exciting start in Physical Education this year! We’re delighted to welcome new P.E and 8th grade Health teacher, Ms. Plamondon, and we’re implementing monthly fitness challenges for grades 3-6. In the September/October challenge, students will see how long they can hold a PLANK position. Students will assess their levels next week, and through increased practice and hard work see how many levels they can advance until the final challenge at the end of October. Go ahead and practice it with your child!!
Grades K-2: we are working on the difference between personal and general space, and learning how to keep self-space safe and avoid others while moving. This skill will help students in all tag games we play throughout the year.
Grades 3-5: we are reviewing a variety of playground games kids can play at recess. We teach all students the basic rules, “Pierce Gym Rules,” for the most popular recess games. That said, kids are encouraged to change the rules as long as the changes are communicated to everyone to ensure fair play.
Grades 6-8: we are reviewing how to use our heart rate monitors, which we’ll use in the fitness center. We surveyed students about their favorite units or sports, and will use the survey results to help plan our year’s curriculum; we also wanted to give students an option to “opt out” of a sport that they do not enjoy, in order to try and maximize activity level and exercise time in class. If students choose to opt out, they will use the fitness center with a goal of exercising in their target heart rate zone for a certain period of time.
Notices:
- CROSS-COUNTRY sign-ups have begun this week. All information has been explained to students in class, and will be available in a student packet next week. The cross-country meet (grades 5-8) is scheduled for Thurs. 10/16 (rain date Fri. 10/17). There will be 6 practices offered after school, dates TBA.
- VOLLEYBALL try-outs for grades 7 & 8 are starting next week, Tues. 9/23, and Wednesday. Practices will be on Tuesdays and games are always on Wednesdays. TO TRY OUT, STUDENTS MUST REGISTER ON WWW.FAMILYID.COM BEFORE Mon., 9/22, and hand in a current physical (within 13 months) at this time. The first game is Wed., 10/1.
- AFTERSCHOOL SPORTS begin this week!! Open to all students in grades 4-8. Free, no sign-ups required. Thursdays 2:30-3:30pm and Fridays 1:40-2:40pm.
PE Update - May 2014
Grades K-2
We have been playing games to help us review many of the concepts we’ve learned this year, which include pathways, levels, effort, and personal and general space. We have also begun a unit on jumping and landing.
Grades 3-5
We concluded our Track & Field unit! Students participated in various events including the high jump, long jump, turbojav, and running events, and many students took place in the annual T&F meet held last week. Currently, we are teaching our classes tennis skills. We have worked a lot on racquet control and are beginning to work on our forehand and backhand strokes, and will play some fun tennis-related games to practice these skills.
Grades 6-8
These grades also took part in our Track & Field unit, and many students participated in the annual T&F meet at Downes Field last week, where they competed against students from the other seven public schools in Brookline. All of our participants competed very well and conducted themselves very well showing their Pierce Pride. Recently, we have been playing Ultimate Frisbee. The students have really enjoyed this unit, and have showed some great competitive spirit while competing against their classmates.
Grades K-2
We have been playing games to help us review many of the concepts we’ve learned this year, which include pathways, levels, effort, and personal and general space. We have also begun a unit on jumping and landing.
Grades 3-5
We concluded our Track & Field unit! Students participated in various events including the high jump, long jump, turbojav, and running events, and many students took place in the annual T&F meet held last week. Currently, we are teaching our classes tennis skills. We have worked a lot on racquet control and are beginning to work on our forehand and backhand strokes, and will play some fun tennis-related games to practice these skills.
Grades 6-8
These grades also took part in our Track & Field unit, and many students participated in the annual T&F meet at Downes Field last week, where they competed against students from the other seven public schools in Brookline. All of our participants competed very well and conducted themselves very well showing their Pierce Pride. Recently, we have been playing Ultimate Frisbee. The students have really enjoyed this unit, and have showed some great competitive spirit while competing against their classmates.
PE Update - April 2014
After a wonderful month of Gymnastics and Volleyball, our Pierce students are ready to jump right into Track and Field! All students K-8 will be learning about T&F events, e.g. Long Jump, High Jump, and Shot Put, as well as about the different types of races involved. With all of this amazing activity going on, we are keeping our eye on the district-wide Track and Field meet on May 20th (5th and 6th Grade) and May 21st (7th and 8th Grade)!!!! Students in grades 5-8 who are interested in competing need to turn in permission slips by MAY 9th! We are so excited for the month of MAY!
Track & Field Practice Schedule for Grades 5-8, 2:30-3:30pm
Fri. 5/2: Indoor Events (high jump, long jump, shot put, turbo jav)
Mon. 5/5: Indoor Events
Tues. 5/6: Outdoor events (running, turbo jav, shot put)
Thurs. 5/8: Outdoor Events
Mon. 5/12: Indoor Events
Tues. 5/13: Outdoor Events
Thurs. 5/15: Indoor Events
Mon. 5/19: Indoor Events 7/8 Only
After a wonderful month of Gymnastics and Volleyball, our Pierce students are ready to jump right into Track and Field! All students K-8 will be learning about T&F events, e.g. Long Jump, High Jump, and Shot Put, as well as about the different types of races involved. With all of this amazing activity going on, we are keeping our eye on the district-wide Track and Field meet on May 20th (5th and 6th Grade) and May 21st (7th and 8th Grade)!!!! Students in grades 5-8 who are interested in competing need to turn in permission slips by MAY 9th! We are so excited for the month of MAY!
Track & Field Practice Schedule for Grades 5-8, 2:30-3:30pm
Fri. 5/2: Indoor Events (high jump, long jump, shot put, turbo jav)
Mon. 5/5: Indoor Events
Tues. 5/6: Outdoor events (running, turbo jav, shot put)
Thurs. 5/8: Outdoor Events
Mon. 5/12: Indoor Events
Tues. 5/13: Outdoor Events
Thurs. 5/15: Indoor Events
Mon. 5/19: Indoor Events 7/8 Only
PE Update - March 2014
Prior to February vacation, we completed a Winter Olympics unit with the students in grades K-4. The students were able to choose, with their group, what country their team represented. The children were very excited about the "Pierce School Olympics," and did a great job competing in our own modified events. Some of the events included bobsled, luge, speed skating, curling, and cross-country skiing. We have been assessing some motor skills in class, and will be completing a P.E. progress report for all students in K-5, to be sent home in the spring.
We are currently in a three-week gymnastics and strength-training unit for all students in grades K-8. The students at Pierce really look forward to this unit each year. During this unit, the students are able to try gymnastics events such as tumbling, low and high balance beams, rings, uneven parallel bars, and vaulting. Older students also have the option of participating in strength training, using medicine and physio-balls as well as weights and bands. Our fitness center will also be open for children in grades 6-8 to use during some classes.
Prior to February vacation, we completed a Winter Olympics unit with the students in grades K-4. The students were able to choose, with their group, what country their team represented. The children were very excited about the "Pierce School Olympics," and did a great job competing in our own modified events. Some of the events included bobsled, luge, speed skating, curling, and cross-country skiing. We have been assessing some motor skills in class, and will be completing a P.E. progress report for all students in K-5, to be sent home in the spring.
We are currently in a three-week gymnastics and strength-training unit for all students in grades K-8. The students at Pierce really look forward to this unit each year. During this unit, the students are able to try gymnastics events such as tumbling, low and high balance beams, rings, uneven parallel bars, and vaulting. Older students also have the option of participating in strength training, using medicine and physio-balls as well as weights and bands. Our fitness center will also be open for children in grades 6-8 to use during some classes.
PE Update - January 2014
Grades K-2
Before December vacation, students were practicing catching and underhand throws. They learned that the "tick-tock" motion can be used for all different types of tosses, and that the force they use, as well as their release point, affects their throws. We played different games and activities to practice this technique, and now are working on overhand throwing skills. In class, we will embark on various games and challenges that require students to adjust their throws to targets at different levels and distances.
Grades 3-5
Before December vacation, students in grades 3 & 4 were learning and practicing basic basketball skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and positioning. They ended the unit by playing a modified game of basketball that incorporated all these skills. They’re now starting to learn the game of floor hockey, and are practicing such skills as stick handling, shooting, and positioning. Students in grade 5 wrapped up their FitnessGram assessment in December and are now beginning their basketball unit. FitnessGram reports will be discussed with students in class, and will be sent home at parent/teacher conferences in the spring.
Grades 6-8
Students completed their FitnessGram assessment in December and are now beginning either basketball or fitness. Skills are still taught in the basketball unit, but students progress into games much faster than in the younger grades. The fitness curriculum teaches students the different aspects of fitness (cardiovascular, muscular strength & endurance, flexibility, body composition) and how to exercise to improve each area. Students learn about target heart rate zones, and grades 7 & 8 use heart-rate monitors to track their effort levels. The FitnessGram reports will be discussed with students in class as well, and will be sent home with report cards or progress reports.
Before December vacation, students were practicing catching and underhand throws. They learned that the "tick-tock" motion can be used for all different types of tosses, and that the force they use, as well as their release point, affects their throws. We played different games and activities to practice this technique, and now are working on overhand throwing skills. In class, we will embark on various games and challenges that require students to adjust their throws to targets at different levels and distances.
Grades 3-5
Before December vacation, students in grades 3 & 4 were learning and practicing basic basketball skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and positioning. They ended the unit by playing a modified game of basketball that incorporated all these skills. They’re now starting to learn the game of floor hockey, and are practicing such skills as stick handling, shooting, and positioning. Students in grade 5 wrapped up their FitnessGram assessment in December and are now beginning their basketball unit. FitnessGram reports will be discussed with students in class, and will be sent home at parent/teacher conferences in the spring.
Grades 6-8
Students completed their FitnessGram assessment in December and are now beginning either basketball or fitness. Skills are still taught in the basketball unit, but students progress into games much faster than in the younger grades. The fitness curriculum teaches students the different aspects of fitness (cardiovascular, muscular strength & endurance, flexibility, body composition) and how to exercise to improve each area. Students learn about target heart rate zones, and grades 7 & 8 use heart-rate monitors to track their effort levels. The FitnessGram reports will be discussed with students in class as well, and will be sent home with report cards or progress reports.
PE Update - December 2013
K-2 students began learning how to travel in different levels (low, medium, high) and concluded with an obstacle course! The past few weeks they have been playing tag games such as “What Time is it, Mr. Fox?” and “Finding the Keys to Success,” practicing skills such as chasing, fleeing, dodging, and darting. Going into December, students will begin their Catching and Underhand Tossing Unit.
3-5 students have done a wonderful job working with each other in our “Team Building Unit,” in which they learned and practiced excellent teamwork skills such as communication, strategy, and taking on different leadership roles. These were displayed in all of our activities such as “Peanut Butter Pit” and “Castleball.” This month, students will begin their basketball unit, and Grade 5 will take part in our yearly Physical Fitness Assessment.
6-8 students just finished the team handball and fitness center units for the first time ever at Pierce! They learned the importance of Strength & Conditioning and Cardiovascular Fitness with our new technology such as Dance Dance Revolution on our Wii console. At the same time, students up in the gym worked hard learning and practicing the skills and tactical concepts of the Olympic sport. This month they will all take part in Basketball and the FITNESSGRAM assessment.
3-5 students have done a wonderful job working with each other in our “Team Building Unit,” in which they learned and practiced excellent teamwork skills such as communication, strategy, and taking on different leadership roles. These were displayed in all of our activities such as “Peanut Butter Pit” and “Castleball.” This month, students will begin their basketball unit, and Grade 5 will take part in our yearly Physical Fitness Assessment.
6-8 students just finished the team handball and fitness center units for the first time ever at Pierce! They learned the importance of Strength & Conditioning and Cardiovascular Fitness with our new technology such as Dance Dance Revolution on our Wii console. At the same time, students up in the gym worked hard learning and practicing the skills and tactical concepts of the Olympic sport. This month they will all take part in Basketball and the FITNESSGRAM assessment.
PE Update - November 2013
K-2 We have been learning about how our bodies move in various levels; high, medium and low. The students have also been learning about moving in various pathways; such as straight, curved and zig-zag. We have played many games using the skills we have learned.
3-5 The kids in the third through fifth grades have been working on a Playground Games unit. We have taught the kids various games that they can enjoy with their friends at recess and outside of school.
6-8 In grades 6-8, we have introduced a Team Handball to our students. They have taken to it really well and seem to enjoy this high paced, fast moving sport!
We have also opened up our new Fitness Center (formally the small gym) the students as well as the staff are excited to have this up and running and it has been a immediate hit with the students! The students have the ability to work with many different cardio machines such as; bikes, an elliptical machine, a manual treadmill, a rowing machine and a slide board. They have also been working on strengthening exercises using bands, medicine balls, weights, physioballs and BOSU balls.
3-5 The kids in the third through fifth grades have been working on a Playground Games unit. We have taught the kids various games that they can enjoy with their friends at recess and outside of school.
6-8 In grades 6-8, we have introduced a Team Handball to our students. They have taken to it really well and seem to enjoy this high paced, fast moving sport!
We have also opened up our new Fitness Center (formally the small gym) the students as well as the staff are excited to have this up and running and it has been a immediate hit with the students! The students have the ability to work with many different cardio machines such as; bikes, an elliptical machine, a manual treadmill, a rowing machine and a slide board. They have also been working on strengthening exercises using bands, medicine balls, weights, physioballs and BOSU balls.
PE Update - October 2013
K, 1, and 2 students started the year off learning about self and general space and practicing different locomotor movements which are how we move from one point to the next (skipping, running, jumping, hopping, galloping, etc.). We are now learning about how we move in different pathways on the ground (straight, curved and zig-zag) as well as how we can move in different levels in the space (low, medium, high).
Grades 3 through 6 students have been engaged in American football and soccer units. Skills for both sports were taught and practiced and then utilized in game situations. This will be the last week for soccer and football.
Grades 7 and 8 just finished 3 weeks of learning and playing backyard games. They will have a week where they can choose to play American Football or Soccer and then we will be moving into a new unit, Team Handball. We are also planning on having our grand opening of the fitness center within the next couple of weeks!
Grades 3 through 6 students have been engaged in American football and soccer units. Skills for both sports were taught and practiced and then utilized in game situations. This will be the last week for soccer and football.
Grades 7 and 8 just finished 3 weeks of learning and playing backyard games. They will have a week where they can choose to play American Football or Soccer and then we will be moving into a new unit, Team Handball. We are also planning on having our grand opening of the fitness center within the next couple of weeks!
PE Update - March 2013
We have recently completed our floor hockey unit in our Physical Education classes. With the K-2 students we focused on properly holding the stick, controlling the stick and stick handling. Once they had these skills we played a fun relay game using stick handing. We called the game "Hockey Hungry Hippo" it is similar to the children's game in which you try to collect as many balls for your team. They really seemed to enjoy this game and worked well together.
The students in grades 3-6 worked on developing their stick handing, passing and shooting skills. Once they were comfortable with these skills we played games. The students really got into the games and they displayed some great skill!
In grades 7&8 we reviewed the skills and rules of hockey that they had previously learned in their P.E. classes and got them into games. They too, really enjoyed the sport.
Coming up we will be entering our Gymnastics/Weight Training unit. This is always one of the most anticipated units that we teach by many of our students. We have many different pieces of gymnastics equipment such as rings, uneven bars, a vaulting box and floor exercise mats. During this unit we also offer equipment for the older children to work out with. We have weights, bands, physio and BOSU balls as well as other exercise equipment.
The students in grades 3-6 worked on developing their stick handing, passing and shooting skills. Once they were comfortable with these skills we played games. The students really got into the games and they displayed some great skill!
In grades 7&8 we reviewed the skills and rules of hockey that they had previously learned in their P.E. classes and got them into games. They too, really enjoyed the sport.
Coming up we will be entering our Gymnastics/Weight Training unit. This is always one of the most anticipated units that we teach by many of our students. We have many different pieces of gymnastics equipment such as rings, uneven bars, a vaulting box and floor exercise mats. During this unit we also offer equipment for the older children to work out with. We have weights, bands, physio and BOSU balls as well as other exercise equipment.
PE Update - January 2013
Grades K-2: After a longer and enjoyable holiday break, students returned for a final week of chasing, fleeing, dodging and darting. It provided the students an opportunity to once again practice the concepts of self-space, general space, and increase spatial awareness. The students are currently in the basketball unit. Emphasis is placed on eye-hand coordination, stationary dribbling, dribbling in motion, and passing.
Question for you child: What should you dribble with? Answer - Palm or pads of your finger.
Grades 3-6: At the return from break, students completed remaining assessments in the fitness gram. Compete analysis will be sent home. Basketball has started and students continue fundamental skills of dribbling, passing and shooting. Importance is placed on control. Dribbling: Low-to-medium dibbling and/or low-to-low dribbling. Passing: various types of passes.
Questions for you child: When should you use a low-to-medium level dibble?
Grades 7-8: The students are happy to have completed fitness gram and have started their basketball unit. We do spend time on skills; however, unlike the younger students, who play more skill-based games - 7/8 graders play regulation rules games.
Questions for you child: When should you use a low-to-low level dribble?
Question for you child: What should you dribble with? Answer - Palm or pads of your finger.
Grades 3-6: At the return from break, students completed remaining assessments in the fitness gram. Compete analysis will be sent home. Basketball has started and students continue fundamental skills of dribbling, passing and shooting. Importance is placed on control. Dribbling: Low-to-medium dibbling and/or low-to-low dribbling. Passing: various types of passes.
Questions for you child: When should you use a low-to-medium level dibble?
Grades 7-8: The students are happy to have completed fitness gram and have started their basketball unit. We do spend time on skills; however, unlike the younger students, who play more skill-based games - 7/8 graders play regulation rules games.
Questions for you child: When should you use a low-to-low level dribble?
Physical Education Update - September/October 2012
K, 1, and 2 students started the year off learning about self and general space and practicing different loco motor movements which are how we move from one point to the next (skipping, running, jumping, hopping, galloping, etc.) We then explored how we move both on the ground and in the air. They practiced moving in different pathways on the floor (straight, curved and zigzag) and in various levels (low, medium, and high). The pathways and locomotors skills are practiced in various tag games like Pac-man, tunnel tag, Banana Bunch and Harry the Hand. Our next focus is going to be on chasing, fleeing and dodging.
3, 4, 5 and 6th grade students have been engaged in a unit of soccer and American football. Skills for both sports were taught and practiced and then utilized in game situations. This will be the last week for soccer and football. We have also had many days because of inclement weather to play large group games, like multiple goal soccer and End Zone Ball. The next unit coming up is an Adventure unit, which focuses on team building and learning how to work with others.
7th and 8th graders began the year participating in a backyard games unit. This unit is designed to expose them to recreational sports that can be played at home on their own and with friends, where there is no need for a team. The games involved in this unit are bocce, ladder golf, washer toss, Bag-O, horseshoes, Frisbee golf, and triangle ball. After the backyard games unit students began soccer and football. Students are given a choice at this grade level to maximize participation and activity level. We are starting our fitness unit next week, where students will learn about the aspects of fitness and learn how to improve their fitness levels.
Questions to ask your child to enhance their gross motor learning …
- Show me an exercise that gets your heart beating faster. (Cardiovascular exercise)
- Show me an exercise that stretches your muscles. Do you know what muscle you are stretching? (Flexibility)
- Do you know an exercise that can make you stronger? Show me. (Strength)
- What is your favorite game so far in P.E. class?
- What new strategy did you learn to use in your game today?
Physical Education - Pierce Sports
BEFORE + AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS HAVE BEGUN!!! Both are open to students in grades 4-8. There is no fee to participate in either.
BEFORE school sports are Tues. + Wed. from 7:15-7:55am. AFTER school sports are Thurs. + Fri. from 2:30-3:30pm.
The 7/8 VOLLEYBALL try-outs are underway. Try-outs are on Tues. 9/18 and Wed. 9/19. Practices will be on Mondays from 2:30-3:30pm. Games will be on Wednesdays, check schedule for location.
The CROSS COUNTRY meet is also coming up on Thursday October 18th (Rain date Friday Oct. 19th)! This is open to anyone in grades 5-8 that wants to participate. It is a very fun, during the school day event that parents and families are welcome and encouraged to come watch. Sign ups have begun in Physical Education class. Packets along with permission slips are also available in the gym. There will also be 6 practice sessions from 2:30-3:30 after school to train for the meet. Practice dates will be posted in the gym and announced to all classes.
BEFORE school sports are Tues. + Wed. from 7:15-7:55am. AFTER school sports are Thurs. + Fri. from 2:30-3:30pm.
The 7/8 VOLLEYBALL try-outs are underway. Try-outs are on Tues. 9/18 and Wed. 9/19. Practices will be on Mondays from 2:30-3:30pm. Games will be on Wednesdays, check schedule for location.
The CROSS COUNTRY meet is also coming up on Thursday October 18th (Rain date Friday Oct. 19th)! This is open to anyone in grades 5-8 that wants to participate. It is a very fun, during the school day event that parents and families are welcome and encouraged to come watch. Sign ups have begun in Physical Education class. Packets along with permission slips are also available in the gym. There will also be 6 practice sessions from 2:30-3:30 after school to train for the meet. Practice dates will be posted in the gym and announced to all classes.