Mr. Francisco
Physical Education & Health
During the month of December in Physical Education students finished up the frisbee unit and moved into some Christmas-themed games, even a few dodgeball variations that are always a hit with the middle school students. Upon returning in January after the long and relaxing Christmas break we have been working on our kicking skills and learning the game of soccer.
Our younger students played a variety of Christmas themed games to celebrate the season such as Grinch tag, Home Alone, Santa’s sleigh ride, candy cane tag, and Christmas cookies.
With the World Cup taking place later this year, students in 6th,7th, and 8th grades are playing their own version in class. After making teams of 3, each team has chosen a country to represent, completed a day of pre-season practice, and is now in the process of playing through the “group stage” of the World Cup.
Our younger students are practicing their kicking skills by learning how to control the ball while dribbling, passing with the inside of their foot, receiving passes with their feet, and are now practicing some more powerful kicks as they start to practice shooting at the goals.
In 8th grade Health, students have been learning about various diseases. We started with some common communicable diseases and ways to limit the spread. We also learned about non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, including ways to reduce the risk, treatments, and differentiating between various types of those diseases. Our unit is culminating with students creating an infographic project where they will further research a disease of their choice.
A little about me:
When I am not teaching I play recreational touch football almost year-round and in a kickball league part of the year. I also enjoy disc golf, park golf (ask me about it sometime!), and biking. One of my favorite things to do is cook, especially making some delicious game day recipes for Bills games.
Grading policy:
Physical Education: 80% daily effort, participation, conduct, 20% assessments
8th grade Health: 60% class work, 20% projects, 20% tests/quizzes
Philosophy: I believe all students should be provided with a variety of activities that allows them to explore several different ways to be physically active. The goal is to provide students with enjoyment, competition and motivation to want to be physically active through the remainder of their lives. Students will also learn about what it means to live a happy and healthy lifestyle.
