Content area
Abstract
This article begins by reviewing the growing issues surrounding student literacy and its impact on academic performance. The discussion then moves to exploring how physical education can be a positive setting for improving literacy skills in students. The article concludes by providing specific examples for improving literacy skills through physical education. The uniqueness of physical education class makes it ideal for integrating literacy skills. A fun and easy way to build on what's being done in the classroom is through sharing unit themes with other teachers. Another way to infuse literacy into physical education is through language integration. Lastly, physical education class can reinforce the importance of effective listening and speaking skills, which are an essential part of literacy. Physical educators can lead this reform by crossing curricular lines and promoting a positive learning environment that strengthens school connectedness and student investment in education.
