As a physical educator, I found "Designing The Physical Education Curriculum" book to be a valuable resource tool. The book is geared for teaching physical educators at the undergraduate and graduate level. At the undergraduate level, the book serves as a knowledge base for physical education curriculums. For the graduate level student, the book provides an opportunity of revising and evaluating existing programs of physical education.

Physical educators with varying years of experience would find the book useful to design a physical education curriculum or make revisions of an existing curriculum. The book would also be helpful for curriculum developers or school administrators.

Information included in this book makes accommodations for special learners. In this case, special learners refers to students who are culturally diverse, at-risk, and gifted and talented students. Special education issues are also addressed which is essential for physical educators.

The chapters follow a sequential format which is easy for the reader to follow and understand. Each chapter has a set of expected outcomes that is consistent with outcomes of NASPE (National Association for Sport and Physical Education). At the end of each chapter, there is an opportunity for the reader to apply what they have learned and receive feedback on their concepts. The self-directed activities allow for the reader to review the previous material and develop their own ideas. "Making It Work" is an addition to each chapter which includes current issues and pragmatic ways of solving them.

I would rank this book a five out of five, with five being the highest. I would recommend this book to physical educators who are starting out their careers and to veteran physical educators who are looking for new ideas on writing curriculums. It is my belief, that physical education is an exciting area of teaching.

The only drawback with this book and many other physical education textbooks is the use of cartoon-like illustrations versus real life photographs. I believe, this would give physical education textbooks and materials more credibility in the field of education.

Reviewed by

Sue Gapp, Simmons Middle School, Physical Education and Health, Aberdeen, South Dakota

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