by Ansley Cochran
Physical Education (PE) is a required class in Middle School and unlike in Lower School it is something students have every day unless they drop. Some people like that PE is a required course, and some beg to differ.
In order to understand this difference of opinions, I interviewed teachers and students about their points of view on PE as a class. Coach Lowe teaches on the MS PE rotation. I asked how she would describe the purpose of having PE every day. Coach Lowe said, “The purpose of P.E. is the same as why you have academic classes every day.” she said. “There are benefits to math, English, art, science, and physical education that help our brains, bodies, and overall health. We need to learn how to be active and move because it will help us for the rest of our lives. You learn about nutrition and things like that.”
Q: What is the reasoning behind PE clothes?
A: “You need to be dressed in appropriate attire of course. If you wear a dress and are playing lacrosse, you’re most likely not going to do your best.”
Q: How do you think P.E. helps us bond with others?
A: “Sports helps us learn how to manage time, work together with others, and it’s more unique than other classes. You get pushed outside your comfort zone and do things with people you probably don’t talk to as much.”
In addition to speaking with Coach Lowe, I interviewed another Middle School teacher who added a consideration to the question of having PE every day.
Q: What are your thoughts on us students having PE every day?
A: “When I was a child,” they said, “I enjoyed having PE, but now, I recognize that why some people don’t like it is because PE exposes physical strengths and weaknesses. There’s this sort of status and hierarchy if you are faster, or better at jumping, or can hit farther that has nothing to do with personality or kindness.”
Finally, I interviewed two Middle School students who had different opinions about PE. One student said: “I don’t like PE because I like to exercise when it’s not required. Once I feel like I have to do it I don’t want to do it anymore.” Yet, the other student stated that: “PE is great because you need to exercise. It’s good for your health, and it’s a second recess.”
In conclusion, my knowledge on this topic has expanded, and I think that both sides are accurate. What do you think?