Manitoba Physical Education Assessment 1993. English Language Schools: Grades 4, 8, 11. Final Report

This study assessed the strengths, weaknesses, and degree of implementation of the Manitoba (Canada) Physical Education curriculum in grades 4, 8, and 11. This report presents the conclusions and recommendations resulting from a review and interpretation of the findings by the Physical Education Educators on the grade level Technical Advisory Committees. At each grade level, the assessment consisted of a student performance test, a student written test, and a teacher survey. The six major learning goals at each grade level were consistent even though the specific objectives varied from one grade level to another; the fitness portion of the performance test was consistent across the three grade levels as well. In general, results were positive and indicated that the curriculum was well covered, with males showing higher fitness than females, except in flexibility. At Grades 4 and 8, a sizeable proportion of students did not receive the recommended minimum of time for physical education classes; at all three grade levels, there was a de-emphasis in Rhythm and Dance, Aquatics, and Gymnastics. In reporting to parents, evaluation concentrated on behavior, participation, and effort; skills, fitness, and knowledge of concepts received little attention. The level of teacher qualification correlated with teaching assignment; the least qualified teachers were found at Grade 11. Appendices include the detailed procedures of the Physical Education Assessment and a listing of the members of the Technical Advisory Committees. (NAV)