Albania Grade 10 Physical Education Curriculum

The Albanian Grade 10 Physical Education curriculum, officially termed "Physical Education, Sport, and Health" (PES), is a compulsory subject within the pre-university education system. Implemented as part of a broader educational reform starting in the 2014-2015 academic year, the curriculum emphasizes competency-based learning and aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge for a healthy and active lifestyle.

Curriculum Aims

The PES curriculum has several key aims:

• Promoting regular physical activity: The curriculum encourages students to engage in regular physical activity for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
• Education for a healthy and active lifestyle: Students learn about the benefits of physical activity, healthy eating habits, and injury prevention.
• Acquisition of important and lifelong skills: The curriculum fosters the development of motor skills, social skills, and cognitive skills related to physical activity and health.
• Theoretical and practical knowledge: Students gain both theoretical knowledge about health-related physical activity and practical experience in various sports and activities.

Learning Outcomes

The curriculum focuses on developing several learning outcomes across different domains:

• Knowledge: Students learn the rules and techniques of various sports, understand tactical concepts, and gain knowledge about health, nutrition, and first aid.
• Social Skills: Students develop skills in teamwork, communication, emotional management, and ethical decision-making within the context of sports and physical activity.
• Motor Skills: Students improve their coordination, flexibility, speed, and strength through participation in various physical activities.
• Competences: The curriculum aims to develop three core PES competences: developing mobility skills, interacting with others in motile and sport situations, and adapting an active and healthy lifestyle.

Curriculum Activities

The Grade 10 PES curriculum includes a variety of activities, categorized into team and individual sports:

• Team Games/Sports: Basketball, volleyball, football, handball, tennis, table tennis, badminton, and optional outdoor activities.
• Individual Games/Sports: Gymnastics, athletics, and optional swimming and skiing.

The curriculum also includes an optional "Fitness and Health" module in Grade 11, focusing on both anaerobic and aerobic fitness activities.

Interdisciplinary Links

The PES curriculum integrates with other subjects, including:

• Languages and Communication: Correct terminology and communication for improved performance.
• Arts: Rhythm, musical coordination, dance, and composition.
• Mathematics: Measurement, data interpretation, and analysis.
• Nature Sciences: Understanding the human body, forces, and laws of nature.
• Social Science and Environment: Personal and interpersonal attitudes, communication, and gender differences.
• Technology and IT: Data collection, organization, and processing for projects.

Health education is integrated within the PES curriculum, covering topics such as hygiene, nutrition, injury prevention, first aid, and the negative effects of drugs.

Equity and Social Integration

While the curriculum itself does not explicitly address gender equality, classes are often divided by gender for practical activities. Inclusive education is promoted, with individual programs developed for students with disabilities. The curriculum also addresses issues of discrimination and stereotypes through themes like "Sport and Society."

Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities are encouraged and often organized by schools, with support from parents and the community. The Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth (MoESY) has agreements with sports federations to provide access to facilities and equipment. A notable example of extracurricular activity is the "Olympic Week," organized by high schools in collaboration with the Albanian National Olympic Committee. Financial support for extracurricular activities can be a challenge, relying on schools, parents, and community contributions.