- A physical education teacher is responsible for teaching elementary and secondary students basic motor skills, games and lifelong fitness activities. In the pre-kindergarten to grade five curriculum, you focus on basic locomotor and non-locomotor movements. For example, you provide instruction in walking, running, hopping, kicking and throwing. In the middle school, grades six to eight, introduce students to organized individual and team activities such as gymnastics, volleyball and basketball. In the secondary school, you encourage students to become more proficient in lifelong activities such as aerobics, rock climbing, tennis, golf and hiking.
- In some schools, you may be asked to coordinate and teach courses in a wellness curriculum. These can include courses such as first aid, nutrition, sexuality and interpersonal relationships. If you are interested in wellness programs, complete your state's requirements for a health license; it will give you an edge in the hiring process.
- You will be expected to teach and lead a wide range of sports and athletic activities. Focus on the popular activities in your state and acquire an in-depth knowledge of the rules and strategies of each sport. Be prepared to coach one or more teams each year. If you are unemployed, volunteer as a coach, camp counselor or assistant at an after-school program.
- At the elementary level, you will probably teach eight to 10 half-hour classes with a few breaks for planning periods. At the secondary level, you will probably teach five to six 90-minute classes. New teachers may also be asked to teach in your second subject area. Many teachers combine physical education with a humanities course such as English, history or geography. During the day, you will have additional supervision duties: hall, lunchroom and bus. Throughout the year, you will attend regular staff meetings and participate in parent-teacher conferences.
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