TExES Physical Education EC-12 Practice Exam

When instructing students on a particular sport, what should the teacher prioritize for the initial lesson?

1. Have students take part in intramural sports programs

2. Have students practice the skills used in the sport they are teaching

3. Provide explicit feedback to correct visible errors in student performance

4. Teach how to correctly perform the skills and motor patterns found in the particular sport

The correct answer is: Teach how to correctly perform the skills and motor patterns found in the particular sport

Prioritizing the teaching of correct skill execution and motor patterns in a sport during the initial lesson is essential because it lays a solid foundation for students' overall performance and understanding of the game. By focusing on how to correctly perform the skills from the outset, students are more likely to develop proper technique, which can prevent the formation of bad habits that may be difficult to correct later. Effective skill development encourages not only physical competence but also boosts confidence among students. As they learn and refine their movements, they can progress to more advanced techniques and strategies. This initial emphasis on skill proficiency ensures that students have a strong basis for engaging in more complex aspects of the sport, such as game strategy or teamwork. In contrast, participating in intramural sports programs, practicing skills, or providing feedback, while valuable, does not replace the necessity of a strong foundational understanding of the skills involved. These elements should naturally follow once the students have grasped the fundamental motor patterns and skills, as they can then be effectively integrated into more advanced activities and evaluations.