Specific teacher attributes and a school environment that embraces physical activity may predispose teachers to these views, and represent areas that should be further explored. Teachers view physical activity as a teaching asset when they perceive a positive impact on their students' ability to focus. Additionally, the teachers perceived that belonging to schools with a culture of movement was important. Common attributes amongst the teachers were active lifestyles, previous employment experiences using physical activity, and a pedagogical approach prioritizing physical activity throughout the day. Teachers valued physical activity because it enhanced their students' focus on classroom activities.
We interviewed seven teachers from grades 1-6, using the qualitative constructivist approach to grounded theory qualitative research. Hence, teachers who voluntarily implement physical activity have views that are unique and important for promoting the practice to others. Researchers are reporting improved student academic test results following physical activity sessions, however, classroom teachers are challenged in balancing curricular and other expectations. Imagine that you went to school and there were no teachers! Talk about what that day would be like.The aim of our study was to explore the perceptions of elementary teachers who routinely prioritized physical activity in their classrooms.What is a skill you have that you are most proud of? Why does it make you proud and how did you learn it?.What do you wonder about what it's like to be an adult?.Write a story about the time you turned invisible.Describe your favorite game (board game, sport, video game, etc.).What cheers you up when you are feeling sad? Describe in detail.What unusual animal do you think would make a better pet than a dog? Explain why.What are your favorite and least favorite foods? Try to describe what they taste like to someone that's never had them.How do your weekends differ from your weekdays? Write about what you do on the weekends.What historical event do you wish that you could've seen for yourself and why?.
If you could choose one superpower to have for a day, what would it be and how would you use your power?.If you could design a whole day to do anything you wanted, what would you choose to do and who would be with you?.Use sensory detail (sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste) to describe what you do each day when you come home from school.When is the last time you apologized for something you did? Describe how apologizing felt.What qualities do you look for in a friend? Explain how you make sure you are a good friend.What is your favorite holiday to celebrate with your family and what traditions do you share?.What do you want to be when you grow up? Try to describe at least three jobs that you think you would enjoy and be good at.Write about your favorite and least favorite subject in school and explain your reasoning.What people in your life inspire you and why?.I watched them as they were thinking and working problems in their notebooks. I gave my students the opportunity to solve word problems in their math journals. It is a wonderful way to incorporate math and writing. What is your favorite season? Describe how you feel during that time of year. A math journal provides students of all abilities and ages with the flexibility to examine and express their mathematical reasoning.