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 Academic Program > Curriculum Guide > Physical Education and Athletics
At Sandy Spring Friends School we believe that physical education and athletics play an integral part in the development of young adults. At the Middle School level, we provide a diverse program where the integrity and fundamental values of individuals are of primary concern. All students are given the opportunity to participate and develop their abilities in order to maintain a lifelong affinity for exercise. With each experience, we encourage students to improve both their fitness and skill levels, while providing an environment that will foster a better sense of self. Learning and opportunities for play are offered through challenging and skill-building games and contests in both physical education and athletics. We take great pride in Sandy Spring Friends School, which is why our athletic and physical education programs demonstrate that a pursuit of excellence on the playing field is fully compatible with the pursuit of excellence in the classroom. Furthermore, a combination of the two endeavors lends itself to a more complete educational experience. Physical EducationSixth GradeSixth grade physical education classes meet three times within the six day rotation, and each class period is forty-five minutes in length. Students are taught the rules and skills of a variety of sports, activities and games. Fitness and wellness concepts are also introduced and revisited throughout the year. Each trimester students will participate in a "Fitness" unit, an "Outdoor Education" unit, and a "Games" unit. While the names of the units will remain the same for all three trimesters, the curriculum within each unit will change and progress. All students will participate in the "Fitnessgram" fitness test developed by the Cooper Institute of Aerobics. This test focuses on "healthy fitness" zones rather than sport related fitness. The "Fitnessgram" also has an interactive component in which students can track and record their physical activity both in and out of school. Seventh GradeSeventh grade physical education classes meet three times within the six day rotation, and each class period is sixty minutes in length. Students are taught the rules and skills of a variety of sports, activities and games. Fitness and wellness concepts are also introduced and revisited throughout the year. Each trimester students will participate in a "Fitness" unit, an "Outdoor Education" unit, and a "Games" unit. While the name of the units will remain the same name all three trimesters, the curriculum within each unit will change and progress. All students will participate in the "Fitnessgram" fitness test developed by the Cooper Institute of Aerobics. This test focuses on "healthy fitness" zones rather than sport related fitness. The "Fitnessgram" also has an interactive component in which students can track and record their physical activity both in and out of school. Eighth GradeEighth grade physical education classes meet three times within the six day rotation, and each class period is sixty minutes in length. Students are taught the rules and skills of a variety of sports, activities and games. Fitness and wellness concepts are also introduced and revisited throughout the year. Each trimester students will participate in a "Fitness" unit, an "Outdoor Education" unit, and a "Games" unit. While the name of the units will remain the same name all three trimesters, the curriculum within each unit will change and progress. The eighth grade physical education curriculum is designed to allow more ownership of an individual student's learning and fitness levels. This is achieved by giving students more options within each unit. All students will participate in the "Fitnessgram" fitness test developed by the Cooper Institute of Aerobics. This test focuses on "healthy fitness" zones rather than sport related fitness. The "Fitnessgram" also has an interactive component in which students can track and record their physical activity both in and out of school. Middle School Intramural Program (GREEN & GOLD)All students in the Middle School participate in the intramural program offered during the physical education classes. This program fosters a sense of community and school-wide spirit among the Middle School students. Each student is assigned to either the "GREEN" or "GOLD" team. Activities and small-sided games are conducted throughout the physical education curriculum in which students will have a chance to compete for their team. Points are awarded for sportsmanship, spirit, teamwork, and the successful completion of the task, activity, or game. At the end of the year the "crowned champions" will proudly display their banner in the Horning Gymnasium. AthleticsAthletics at Sandy Spring Friends School are an integral part of the educational experience. All students are encouraged to participate in the athletic program at the level most appropriate to them. Our mission is to provide student/athletes with the opportunity to electively represent the school and compete interscholastically in a variety of sports. It is our hope that all student/athletes who move on from the Middle School will possess the following characteristics: great sportsmanship, integrity, self-sacrifice, loyalty, communication skills, and a strong work ethic. SSFS athletics provide a supportive atmosphere in which coaches challenge the intellectual and physical abilities of our athletes. It is our hope that the experience of playing Middle School sports at SSFS is one in which students have fun and build their own self-esteem in a positive, nurturing environment. Our sports offerings are based on the numbers of students who sign up. The goal for the MS program is to field two teams for the sports that allow this. Modeled after the Upper School's athletic program we have designated an B team and A team much like a JV and Varsity. While there are no "cuts," teams will be determined by age and ability. We are members of the Potomac Valley Athletic Conference (PVAC) for all A level teams. The B teams will play a schedule of games that will allow them to grow and develop their skill level and knowledge of the game. 2005 - 2006 Sports Offerings Fall Winter Spring
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