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What does a student learn in ?

This is the year students learn that their body is something they can train. Students practice the basics of moving well: running, hopping, balancing, and tossing or catching a ball. They also start playing alongside classmates, taking turns and following directions during games. By spring, students can move safely in a shared space and join a simple group activity without falling apart.

  • Running and hopping
  • Throwing and catching
  • Balance
  • Taking turns
  • Following directions
  • Active play
Source: Maryland Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards
Year at a glance
How the year usually goes. Every school and district set their own curriculum, so treat this as a guide, not official pacing.
  1. 1

    Moving safely in shared space

    Students learn how to walk, run, and stop without bumping into classmates. They practice listening for signals and using the gym or playground without getting hurt.

  2. 2

    Basic body movements

    Students try out skills like hopping, skipping, jumping, and galloping. They also practice movements that stay in one spot, such as bending, twisting, and balancing on one foot.

  3. 3

    Playing with balls and equipment

    Students start to throw, catch, kick, roll, and bounce. The goal is comfort with the equipment, not accuracy, so parents may see lots of practice tosses at home.

  4. 4

    Playing well with others

    Students practice taking turns, sharing equipment, and following directions in small group games. They learn what it looks like to be a good partner and a good sport.

  5. 5

    Active habits for life

    Students notice how their bodies feel after moving, like a faster heartbeat or being out of breath. They talk about why being active feels good and pick activities they enjoy.

Mastery Learning Standards
The required skills a student should display by the end of Kindergarten.
Physical Education
  • Develop a variety of motor skills, including locomotor, non-locomotor

    Students practice basic ways to move their bodies: running, jumping, balancing, throwing, and catching. Building these skills early helps students stay active as they grow.

  • Apply knowledge related to movement, performance

    Students learn basic ideas about how their bodies move and stay healthy, then put those ideas to use when they run, jump, or play. Knowing why movement matters helps them get more out of every activity.

  • Develop social skills through movement, including respect for self and others…

    Students practice taking turns, following rules, and working with classmates during movement activities. They learn to treat others fairly and be responsible in a group.

  • Develop personal skills, identify personal benefits of movement

    Students learn why moving their bodies feels good and practice making choices to stay active. This standard is about building the habit of choosing to play and move, not just doing it when told.