Arizona Educational Research Organization. Becoming One: Physical Education and the Common Core

• In Event: The Consortium of State and Regional Educational Research Associations: Distinguished Paper Session 2

Abstract

There is considerable evidence to support the value of teaching physical education and the common core in unison (James & Bullock, 2015). The purpose of this study was to determine if math concepts could be added to the fitness portion of elementary physical education classes without reducing the amount of physical activity performed and if student absorption of mathematics knowledge increased by combining the two fields. Fifty-five (55) upper elementary-age students (8-12 years old) of various ethnic backgrounds from one school in Arizona participated. Results showed that 54 of 55 students had extremely positive perceptions. There was a significant increase in mathematics knowledge and no significant changes between step counts in regular physical fitness and mathematics fitness.

Authors

• Janelle Marie Griffo, Arizona State University - Tempe

• Pamela H. Kulinna, Arizona State University

• Leslie Hicks, Arizona State University

• Connie Pangrazi, Arizona State University