Unit Plan 21 (PreK PE): Safe Movers
PreK PE builds safety skills through fun pathway games that teach children to stop, wait, follow directions, and move carefully in shared space.
Focus: Help children practice safety during movement through playful pathway games that teach them how to stop, wait, travel carefully, and follow simple PE rules.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Physical Education (Safety Rules • Movement Awareness • Pathway Control)
Total Unit Duration: 2 core sessions + 2 optional sessions (1–2 weeks), 20–30 minutes per session
I. Introduction
PreK students continue building movement confidence by learning that safe movement is an important part of every PE lesson. At this age, children benefit from simple games that teach them how to move around equipment, follow traffic-style rules, and keep their bodies under control in shared space. This unit uses walking in different pathways as the warm-up and then moves into the Traffic Game, where children move safely between cones using teacher cues such as stop, go, slow, and turn. The goal is to help children understand that movement games are most fun when everyone follows simple safety rules and takes care of their bodies and classmates.
Essential Questions
- How can I move safely in PE?
- What rules help keep movement games safe?
- How can I stop, wait, and go when the teacher gives a signal?
- Why is it important to use safe bodies around other children?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Follow simple rules and safety guidelines during movement activities.
- Practice stopping, waiting, and moving carefully between cones and pathways.
- Respond to teacher safety cues such as go, stop, slow, and turn.
- Participate actively in movement games while using safe bodies and safe space.
Standards Alignment — PreK (SHAPE America-based custom)
- PE:S4.PKa Follow simple rules and safety guidelines during physical activity.
- Example: Children wait their turn during a throwing activity.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can use safe feet in PE.
- I can stop when the teacher says stop.
- I can wait and take turns.
- I can follow safety rules while I move.