In addition to developing students’ knowledge and skills in fitness and sports, the Physical Education curriculum at St. Juliana is designed to foster five key principles that are valued by coaches, educators, and employers alike. These principles are leadership, attitude, sportsmanship, effort, and respect. Definitions and examples are listed below:
Leadership is the ability to guide, encourage, and help others work together toward a common goal.
A leader doesn’t always have to be the person “in charge.” A good leader:
- Listens to others
- Makes responsible choices
- Helps solve problems
- Encourages and supports people
- Sets a good example
A good attitude means choosing a positive, respectful, and helpful way of thinking and acting, even when things are difficult.
A person with a good attitude:
- Stays positive when facing challenges
- Treats others with respect
- Is willing to learn and improve
- Tries their best instead of giving up
- Looks for solutions instead of only focusing on problems
Sportsmanship means playing fairly, respecting others, and showing a positive attitude whether you win or lose.
A person who shows good sportsmanship:
- Follows the rules and plays fairly
- Respects teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials
- Encourages others
- Handles winning without bragging
- Handles losing without blaming or making excuses
- Congratulates others on a good game or effort
Effort means how hard you try to do something, even when it is difficult or you might make mistakes.
A person who shows effort:
- Gives their best
- Keeps trying when things get challenging
- Stays focused
- Learns from mistakes
- Doesn’t give up easily
Respect means treating yourself and other people with kindness, fairness, and consideration.
A person who shows respect:
- Listens when others are speaking
- Uses kind and appropriate words
- Follows rules and directions
- Accepts that people may have different opinions
- Takes care of people, places, and belongings
Each week, the students at St. Juliana are asked to demonstrate these principles during class. Students who can demonstrate these principles are put on our “PE Awards” board to not only highlight their achievements, but to help motivate students throughout the school. I will post the students each week as well.