Planning for Physical Activity

Description:
The purpose of these activities is to put students in the frame of mind for developing short- and long-term physical activity plans with the objective of providing a sense of competence and positive self-image, as well as setting life-long patterns of physical activity. In particular, students are to use standard graphing techniques to indicate changes over time, as well as using visual depictions of data collected and subsequently analyzed. By emphasizing effort over actual performance, students will be motivated to engage in physical activity for more personal, intrinsic reasons rather than for extrinsic, performance-based reasons.

Objectives:
Students will:

• Use graphs to establish the relationship between setting and reaching goals for physical activity.
• Distinguish between short- and long-term goals for physical activity.
• Set specific short- and long-term goals for physical activity.
• Develop a relationship of physical activity goals to long-term personal health.

Relevant Standards:

National educational standards that correspond to this activity appear below. Grades 5-8 and grades 9-12 standards are listed to address those middle schools that include ninth grade.

National Science Education Standards

Grades 5-8, Standard F

• Individuals can use a systematic approach to thinking critically about risks and benefits. Examples include applying probability estimates to risks and comparing them to estimated personal and social benefits.
• Important personal and social decisions are made based on perceptions of benefits and risks.

• Personal choice concerning fitness and health involves multiple factors. Personal goals, peer and social pressures, ethnic and religious beliefs, and understanding of biological consequences can all influence decisions about health practices.

• Students will demonstrate the ability to practice health-enhancing behaviors and reduce health risks.
• Students will explain the importance of assuming responsibility for personal health behaviors.

• Students will demonstrate the ability to use goal setting and decision making skills to enhance health.
• Students will predict how decisions regarding health behaviors have consequences for themselves and others.

BAM! Body and Mind Resources:

• Activity Cards — Information on many physical activities; how to play, gear needed, safety tips, and expert advice.
• Physical Activity Section — Many articles and features on physical activity and staying fit. Includes a personal physical activity calendar.