Explore our Curriculum

Physical Education

The philosophy of the Physical Education Department is to educate the student on the importance of lifetime fitness and wellness. Our program places an emphasis on the physical, mental, and social-emotional development of each student by establishing a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where the student can flourish. Geffen Academy students will develop an expanded interest in lifetime physical activities and sport by learning essential health and fitness knowledge, gross motor learning and control, positive self-image/self-talk, and leadership and interpersonal skills through activities that foster cooperation, team building, and sportsmanship. The Physical Education Department strives to develop each student’s physical literacy by learning essential knowledge, skills, and habits (growth mindset, grit, curiosity, etc.) in order to become adaptable learners and persistent inquirers in health and wellness for students’  lifespans.

Requirements
  • Middle School: PE is required throughout grades 6-8.
  • Upper School: Required to complete 3 semesters of Physical Education and/or Athletics  and 1 semester of Emergency Preparedness. 
* All 9th grade students will be placed into Physical Education for the year, unless they are taking the Athlete Conditioning class and participating in a Geffen Academy team sport.  During the add/drop period of each semester, students will be able to petition to drop PE with the support of an academic advisor, parent, and if applicable, Athletic Director/ Geffen Academy coach.
  • PE 6

    PE 6
    The 6th grade curriculum is designed to help the student establish their understanding and application of fundamental health-related concepts, locomotor movements, manipulative skills, and effective communication and collaboration skills in a wide variety of games and activities. Each student participates in individual and group activities, traditional and non-traditional games/sports, as well as leadership training, trust building, and goal setting. The activities for the year may include: adventure education, rock climbing,  track and field, and a variety of team sports. All students rotate through these units throughout the two semesters in the school year.
  • PE 7

    PE 7
    The 7th grade curriculum is designed to help the student expand upon their understanding and application of fundamental health and skill- related concepts, locomotor movements, manipulative skills, and effective communication and collaboration skills by demonstrating these skills in a wide variety of group activities and team sports. Each student participates in traditional and non-traditional team sports, as well as leadership training, trust building, and goal setting. The activities for the year may include: team handball, netball, basketball, tchoukball, sabakiball, and a variety of group activities and team sports. All students rotate through these units throughout the two semesters in the school year.
  • PE 8

    PE 8
    The 8th grade curriculum is designed to help the student effectively apply their understanding and application of fundamental health and skill-related concepts, locomotor movements, manipulative skills, knowledge of game strategies and tactics and effective communication and collaboration skills in new games and sports. Each student participates in individual and group activities, traditional and non-traditional games/sports, as well as leadership training, trust building, and goal setting The activities for the year may include racquet sports, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, lacrosse, and indoor hockey. All students rotate through these units throughout the two semesters in the school year.