Exploring the Science of Sports Performance

Title: Exploring the Science of Sports Performance Compliance: Meets Common Core State Standards for Physical Education Subject: Physical Education Summary: Engage your twelfth-grade students in a hands-on project that explores the science behind sports performance, enhancing their understanding of the human body and its capabilities. Topic: Science of Sports Performance Learning Outcomes: - Know the physiological factors that contribute to sports performance - Understand the impact of nutrition and hydration on athletic performance - Can apply scientific principles to improve personal sports performance Methodology: This project will involve a combination of research, experimentation, and practical application. Resources/Materials Required: - Access to the internet and library resources - Sports equipment (e.g., stopwatch, measuring tape, scale) - Laboratory supplies (e.g., pH strips, test tubes, beakers) - Writing materials Instructions: 1. Introduction (1 class period): - Begin by discussing the importance of understanding the science behind sports performance. - Introduce the learning outcomes and explain how this project will help students achieve them. 2. Research Phase (2-3 class periods): - Assign each student a specific sport or physical activity to research. - Instruct students to investigate the physiological factors that contribute to optimal performance in their chosen activity. - Encourage students to explore scientific articles, books, and reputable online sources. 3. Experimental Phase (2-3 class periods): - Divide students into small groups and provide them with laboratory supplies. - Instruct each group to design and conduct an experiment related to sports performance. - Examples of experiments could include testing the effects of hydration on reaction time or measuring the impact of different warm-up routines on flexibility. - Students should record their experimental procedures, observations, and results. 4. Analysis and Application Phase (2-3 class periods): - Have students analyze their experimental data and draw conclusions. - Instruct students to apply their findings to improve their personal sports performance or develop recommendations for athletes in their chosen sport. - Encourage students to create visual presentations or reports to share their findings with the class. 5. Presentation and Reflection (1 class period): - Allocate time for each group to present their findings to the class. - Facilitate a class discussion where students can reflect on the project and its impact on their understanding of sports performance. Assessment: - Research notes and sources (individual) - Experimental design and data collection (group) - Analysis and conclusions (individual) - Presentation or report (group) - Class participation and reflection (individual) By the end of this project, students will have a deeper understanding of the science behind sports performance and be able to apply scientific principles to enhance their own athletic abilities.