Throwing and Catching leads to a P.E. Classic!

Last week we learned how to throw using the correct mechanics. We began with under hand tossing to focus on stepping with our opposite foot and judging distances. Next, we were ready for overhand throws and using the basic form to promote accuracy. Students also learned hand-eye coordination for catching focusing mostly on two-handed catches. For under hand toss we used bean bags, but for overhand throws we used color coated foam balls. Little do they know they were preparing for a PE classic: Dodgeball!

The variations of dodgeball that we will play this week in K-3 P.E. promote safety, awareness and responsiveness. We have encouraged these initiatives in game play over the last three weeks. The rules of the game will be catered to the age-level and appropriate standards will be set for each grade level. I have experienced nothing but success in the past and I anticipate this to be one of your student's favorite games! Check back for more updates!

Curriculum Night

Parents, please join us for Archway Lincoln's Curriculum Nights!

K-2 Curriculum Night- Thursday, August 27th 6:30-8pm


3-5 Curriculum Night- Wednesday, September 2nd 6:30-8pm

This will be a great opportunity for you to learn all the wonderful things your students will be learning this school year. We hope to see you there!

Starting with the Basics in P.E.

To begin the year in P.E. class, we have introduced the basic movements for physical activity that promote efficiency and effectiveness. Most games and sports we play in P.E. will require agility and finesse in order to be successful. That being said, the first Unit we are covering is the Foundation of Locomotor Skills. Our focus is making sure students are pumping their arms correctly while running, changing speed to rapidly change direction and making students aware of their surroundings. Last week we began with simple games like relays races in which they had to use all of their limbs: running, skipping, bear crawl, crap walk, etc. This week we have moved into every child's favorite game: tag! Many versions such as tunnel tag, line tag and flag tag have got them using all the basic locomotor functions we demonstrate and discuss.

In addition, we begin each class with warm-up exercises and stretching. We name the muscles we are stretching and discuss how each one works. As for exercises, we have introduced planks and lunges but modified each for their ability level. Hopefully they remember these skills and are showing everyone at home!

Proper Dress for P.E. Class

As we begin our second week of school, many of you know that Archway students will have P.E. at least twice per week. The uniform and dress code was created to accommodate students for physical activity at recess and P.E. We would like to remind parents that proper footwear is required to protect the children and the gym floor (please see the Archway Lincoln Shoe Policy for examples). Dress shoes or flats will not protect their ankles and feet during high impact running and they will scratch the floor or leave scuff marks that will cause long-term damage. In addition, girls are required to wear dark colored spandex under their jumpers and skirts to accommodate activities in the gym or at recess (please see page 48 in the Family Handbook for more details). I have had a few friendly conversations with students about proper dress. In the future, we will ask students without proper attire to sit out of P.E. Thank you for your support! Please email me if you have any questions: dcook@archwaylincoln.org.

Welcome to Archway P.E. and Athletics!

Greetings Archway Lincoln Parents!

It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as the Physical Education teacher for the kindergarten, first, second and third grade levels in the inaugural year of Archway Lincoln. I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. I have spent the last 9 years working with children ages 3 to 13 to develop their knowledge and awareness of their motor skills and physical abilities in the forms of exercise, sports and education. I am excited to work with our students here at Lincoln and begin building their foundation of exercise and physical fitness.

Physical activity is a crucial part of a child’s development and it is important that they understand the benefits of fitness. Our goal as Physical Educators is to create excitement for fitness and physical activity. We create lesson plans that keep students active and promote enjoyment. We teach the benefits of exercise, staying active and eating healthy. We do these things by modeling enthusiasm for physical education and creating a safe and positive learning environment.

For all of the exciting things your student will be learning this year please follow our Archway Lincoln Athletics blog by submitting your email for new post notifications. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please reach out to me by phone or email. I look forward to working with you and promoting a healthy way of life for your children.

In fitness,

Coach Cook

P: (480) 424-1798
E: dcook@archwaylincoln.org