Kamora Shelton
McKay Student Ambassador
Physical Education
Being a Physical Education (PE) major is about more than just sports and movement; it’s about shaping young lives, fostering lifelong wellness, and understanding the science behind physical activity. To do this, it’s essential to stay informed and updated on the new research. Whether you are still considering the PETE major or already in the major, here are some of the best free resources that everyone should know about.
Free Websites
Lesson planning is, in my opinion, one of the hardest parts of being a teacher. I use these websites to get both lesson plan ideas and find the standards I have to teach to. Being familiar with these two websites can help you plan more effective and efficient activities. If you have never planned a lesson before, looking at these website can help you get an idea of what it would be like and what you would need to include.
I love Dynamic PE ASAP! You can find a bunch of lesson plans, assessment ideas, and professional development resources for PE teachers at all levels.
The Society of Health and Physical Educators offers free standards, webinars, and advocacy tools to support PE majors and educators.
Journals Accessible Through BYU Library
BYU has tons of free resources! I use these journals to find better teaching tips, classroom adaptations, and lesson plan ideas, plus stay up to date on new technology. Since we read a lot of research articles in class, knowing how to access them through the BYU library has been super helpful!
Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (JOPERD)
Available through the BYU library, this journal offers the latest research, teaching strategies, and advocacy ideas for PE educators.
Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport (RQES)
Accessible through BYU, this peer-reviewed journal covers research in exercise science and physical education
Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly (APAQ)
Focuses on research related to adapted physical activity for individuals with disabilities and is available through the BYU library.
Books
Books are a great way to learn—and let’s be honest, they’re usually way more entertaining than research articles! Below are two books I’ve read that have helped me become a better teacher and coach. They’ve given me solid teaching and planning strategies while also helping me understand the why behind what I do. Even if coaching is not for you, knowing my why behind what I do has kept me motivated in school and has helped me push through when things get tough and it can help you too!
Inside Out Coaching
This book by Joe Ehrmann dives deep into what it means to be a coach who truly impacts students beyond just sports. It’s all about shifting your mindset to focus on building relationships and shaping character. This book will inspire you to lead with empathy and purpose, showing your students that you care about who they are, not just what they can do.
Every Moment Matters
This book by John O'Sullivan is packed with practical advice for creating a positive and motivating environment in your classroom or on the field. John O'Sullivan reminds us that every interaction, no matter how small, can shape a student's experience. If you want to engage, inspire, and leave a lasting impact, this book is your go-to guide
Free Apps and Tools
Google Classroom and Drive
I use these tools to help organize my lesson plans, save research articles I really liked and to collaborate on group projects.
GoReact
Go React is a video-based tool where you can record yourself teaching and review it later. This tool has been a game changer for me! We use this tool everytime we teach and it has been helpful to receive feedback from both myself and my professors. I have learned where my weaknesses as a teacher are and what I need to focus on to become better. You can also access other videos of PE Teachers teaching to learn from them.
Taking advantage of these tools will set you up for success in your studies and your future career as a PE teacher. Whether you’re just looking into the PETE program or you're already student teaching, these free resources can help you stay informed and ready to make a positive impact in your students lives!
For anyone considering a career in education, I encourage you to try it! If you have any questions about majoring in education click here to schedule an appointment with a student ambassador!
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