Philosophy of Physical Education Physical and Health Education SS1 First Term Lesson Notes Week 1

Physical and Health Education SS1 First Term Lesson Notes

Week 1: Philosophy of Physical Education


1. Subject: Physical and Health Education

2. Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1)

3. Term: First Term

4. Week: 1

5. Age Group: 14–15 years

6. Topic: Philosophy of Physical Education

7. Sub-topic: Introduction to Physical Education Philosophy

8. Duration: 40 minutes


Behavioral Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

  1. Explain the meaning of the philosophy of physical education.
  2. List and discuss the roles of major philosophers in physical education (e.g., James Hetherington, Dudley Allen Sargent).
  3. Analyze how physical education concepts have evolved over time, from physical training to a holistic view that includes mental and social development.

Keywords:

  • Philosophy: The study of fundamental nature, meaning, and purpose of knowledge and actions.
  • Physical Education (PE): Education focused on the development, care, and well-being of the human body through movement and fitness.
  • Training: Activities aimed at improving a specific skill, behavior, or fitness level.

Set Induction

Begin by asking students about their favorite physical activities or sports, and discuss how these activities make them feel. Explain that physical education (PE) is more than just exercising; it has a deeper purpose tied to ideas and philosophies that support physical, mental, and social growth.

Entry Behavior

Students have some experience with sports or physical activities but may not have explored the broader purposes behind these practices or the philosophy guiding PE as a field.


Learning Resources and Materials

  1. Chart showing early philosophers in physical education (e.g., James Hetherington, Dudley Allen Sargent).
  2. Whiteboard and markers.
  3. Flashcards listing key concepts and definitions in PE philosophy.

Building Background / Connection to Prior Knowledge

Ask students about their experiences with sports and physical activities. Discuss how these activities contribute to well-being and connect to larger goals such as teamwork, discipline, and self-confidence. Introduce the concept of a “philosophy” as a guiding set of ideas.

Embedded Core Skills

  • Critical Thinking
  • Communication
  • Social Responsibility

Learning Materials

  • Textbook: Lagos State Unified Scheme of Work
  • Reference Books: Lagos State Physical and Health Education textbook for SS1

Instructional Materials

  • Visual aids illustrating key philosophers and their contributions.
  • Written summaries of contributions from philosophers such as Hetherington and Sargent.

Content

  1. Meaning of Philosophy of Physical Education
    • Philosophy in physical education explores the ideas, beliefs, and values that shape how we think about physical activity. It seeks to answer why we engage in physical activities, what we hope to achieve, and how physical education can impact individuals and society positively.
  2. Roles of Major Philosophers in Physical Education
    • James Hetherington: Believed that physical education is essential for building character and discipline, making individuals more resilient and dedicated. For example, PE can teach students perseverance through challenging exercises.
    • Dudley Allen Sargent: Advocated for physical fitness as vital to overall health, both mental and physical. Sargent promoted a well-rounded physical education approach that included strength training and activities designed to improve body and mind.
  3. Evolution of Physical Education Concepts
    • Initially, physical education was focused on physical training for survival or military preparation. Over time, it evolved to include fitness for health, personal growth, teamwork, and the development of moral character. Today, PE emphasizes a holistic approach to health and well-being, including physical, mental, and social development.

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions (15)

  1. The study of basic nature, purpose, and existence is called _____ (a) philosophy (b) ideology (c) religion (d) education
  2. Physical education is primarily focused on the care and development of _____ (a) mental health (b) the human body (c) economy (d) religious values
  3. James Hetherington believed that PE builds _____ (a) wealth (b) physical strength (c) character and discipline (d) entertainment
  4. Dudley Sargent emphasized physical education as a way to improve _____ health (a) physical and mental (b) economic (c) emotional (d) social
  5. The philosophy of physical education is a set of guiding _____ (a) principles (b) skills (c) games (d) rules
  6. One aim of physical education philosophy is to develop _____ (a) only physical strength (b) only mental skills (c) a well-rounded individual (d) academic knowledge
  7. Early physical education was focused mainly on preparing individuals for _____ (a) office work (b) survival and military duties (c) research (d) academic success
  8. The role of physical education in society today includes _____ (a) financial planning (b) building self-confidence (c) literature appreciation (d) cooking skills
  9. PE philosophy helps us understand why we engage in _____ (a) agriculture (b) physical activities (c) economic policies (d) technology
  10. Developing perseverance and discipline in PE is an example of building _____ (a) wealth (b) character (c) food (d) technology
  11. Dudley Sargent promoted fitness as important for _____ health (a) military (b) personal and social (c) only physical (d) academic
  12. Modern PE includes physical, mental, and _____ development (a) academic (b) scientific (c) economic (d) social
  13. Physical training focused solely on survival in early PE is an example of _____ (a) modern PE (b) ancient PE philosophy (c) academic learning (d) artistic education
  14. A philosopher’s role in PE is to develop and promote _____ (a) financial skills (b) guiding ideas (c) job skills (d) recreational games
  15. The concept of holistic development in PE includes _____ growth (a) academic only (b) economic only (c) physical, mental, and social (d) financial only

Evaluation Questions (15 FAQs with Answers)

  1. What is the philosophy of physical education?
    The philosophy of physical education is the study of ideas and beliefs that guide physical activity, aiming to understand its purpose and value for individuals and society.
  2. Who is James Hetherington?
    James Hetherington is a philosopher who promoted PE as a way to build character, discipline, and resilience.
  3. Why is Dudley Sargent important in PE?
    Dudley Sargent advocated for PE as essential for both physical and mental health, emphasizing a balanced approach to fitness.
  4. What is a primary goal of physical education philosophy?
    To develop a well-rounded individual by improving physical, mental, and social well-being.
  5. How did early PE differ from modern PE?
    Early PE focused on physical training for survival, while modern PE promotes overall health, character, and teamwork.
  6. What are some qualities developed through PE?
    PE helps develop qualities like discipline, self-confidence, and teamwork.
  7. How does PE contribute to society?
    It promotes healthier individuals, teamwork, and builds character, which benefits communities and societies.
  8. Why is philosophy important in PE?
    Philosophy helps define the purpose of PE, guiding how activities are chosen and emphasizing long-term benefits.
  9. How does PE benefit mental health?
    It reduces stress, builds self-confidence, and promotes mental resilience through physical activity.
  10. What does holistic development mean in PE?
    It refers to the development of the body, mind, and social skills.
  11. What is the importance of character building in PE?
    PE encourages perseverance, teamwork, and respect, which contribute to personal growth.
  12. How has PE evolved over time?
    From military training to an education that balances fitness, mental health, and social skills.
  13. What types of activities are included in modern PE?
    Activities that promote fitness, teamwork, mental resilience, and social skills.
  14. What is the significance of teamwork in PE?
    Teamwork teaches students to work with others, communicate effectively, and build trust.
  15. How can PE improve physical health?
    Through exercises that improve strength, flexibility, and endurance.

Presentation

Step 1: (Revision of the previous topic)

  • Recall general benefits of physical activity and introduce students to the concept of philosophy in PE.

Step 2: (Introduction of new topic)

  • Define the philosophy of physical education, discuss its purpose, and introduce Hetherington and Sargent as contributors.

Step 3: (Student Contributions and Corrections)

  • Students discuss what they believe PE aims to achieve. Teacher summarizes and corrects misconceptions.

Teacher’s Activities

  • Engage students in discussing the meaning of PE philosophy.
  • Explain the contributions of early philosophers in PE.
  • Use visual aids to highlight key ideas.

Learners’ Activities

  • Participate in discussions on PE philosophy.
  • Take notes on Hetherington’s and Sargent’s contributions.
  • Answer fill-in-the-blank questions and review FAQs.

Assessment

  1. Define the philosophy of physical education.
  2. Who was James Hetherington?
  3. What are the main goals of PE philosophy?

Evaluation Questions

  1. What does PE philosophy aim to understand?
  2. Name one philosopher who contributed to PE.
  3. Why is character building important in PE?
  4. How does modern PE differ from early PE?
  5. List two mental benefits of PE.
  6. How does teamwork play a role in PE?
  7. What does holistic development mean?
  8. Why is philosophy important in PE?
  9. Give an example of a physical benefit of PE.
  10. Describe how PE contributes to mental resilience.

Conclusion

Summarize the key elements of PE philosophy and the contributions of key philosophers. Emphasize the importance of understanding PE as a holistic development tool.