Abstract
This article highlights the gap between current physical grade-level outcomes and the practical implementation of sprinting instruction in elementary schools. This emphasizes the need for higher education institutions to learn from practicing elementary teachers, who have successfully incorporated sprinting into their elementary curricula. While pre-service physical education teachers are not typically taught how to teach sprinting as a specialized skill, some elementary PE teachers have developed effective methods for doing so. This article suggests that higher education practitioners should examine these practitioners to inform and improve their teacher preparation programs. This paper outlines several practical applications currently used in elementary PE classes that others can immediately incorporate into their teaching practices. By bridging the gap between current practices in elementary schools and pre-service teacher education, the authors argue that future PE teachers can be prepared to effectively teach sprinting as a specialized skill, thereby enhancing students' overall physical literacy and self-perception.
Recommended Citation
Martinez, Dillon R. and Klepadlo, Scott
(2025)
"Teaching Sprinting as a Specialized Skill in Elementary Physical Education,"
Essays in Education: Vol. 31:
Iss.
1, Article 5.
Available at:
https://openriver.winona.edu/eie/vol31/iss1/5
Primary Author Bio Sketch
Dillon Martinez is an assistant professor at Winona State University, where he is the director of the DAPE program. Dillon’s research focuses on pedagogical decision-making, adapted physical education, and how teachers and coaches make choices that impact their students' or athletes' learning.
Secondary Author Bio Sketch
Scott Klepadlo is a Physical Education Teacher at Lisle Elementary School and serves as the Boys Basketball Varsity Assistant and Head Girls Track and Field Coach at Lisle High School. With over 10 years of experience in education and coaching, Scott is dedicated to building strong, supportive relationships with his students and athletes. He believes in providing opportunities for every individual to work toward their goals, improve their skills, and achieve success.
