REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA

BOTSWANA GENERAL CERTIFICATE

OF
SECONDARY EDUCATION

TEACHING SYLLABUS

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Ministry of Education
Department of Curriculum Development and Evaluation
 FOREWORD

The Ministry of Education is pleased to authorise Critical to the success of our secondary education
the publication of this senior secondary syllabus programme is the recognition of individual
which marks a watershed in the development of talents, needs and learning styles. Hence, the role
the public education system in Botswana and of the teacher in the classroom has changed. S/he
signals another milestone of progress in must be a proficient manager and facilitator; a
fulfilment of the goals set by the Revised director of learning activities. S/he should be
National Policy on Education, Government Paper conscious of students’ needs to take on board a
No. 2 of 1994. measure of accountability and responsibility for
their own learning. S/he must also take into
In this era of widespread and rapid technological account the widening range of ability of the
change and an increasingly inter-dependent student body and the different levels of
global economy, it is essential that all countries achievement which they aspire to. This means
foster human resources by preparing children active participation for all and the creation of rich
adequately for their future. Survival in the and diverse learning environments.
coming millennium will depend on the ability to
accommodate change and to adapt to It is important then that we value the students’
environmental needs and emerging socio- own experiences, build upon what they know and
economic trends. It is the wish of government to reward them for positive achievement. At the
prepare Batswana for future growth and same time, we must be prepared to offer them
adaptation to ongoing change in the socio- guidance and counselling at all levels; assisting
economic context; specifically the transition from them to make the best decisions in keeping with
an agro-based economy to the more broadly their own interests, career prospects and
based industrial economy which we are aiming preferences. In that way we shall prevail in
at. nurturing at the roots of our system, the national
ideals of democracy, development, self-reliance,
The senior secondary programme builds on the unity and social harmony.
Ten Year Basic Education programme and seeks
to provide quality learning experiences. It aims to This syllabus document is the outcome of a great
prepare our students for the world of work, deal of professional consultation and
further education and lifelong learning. However, collaboration. On behalf of the Ministry, I wish to
secondary education must also pay attention to record my appreciation and thank sincerely those
the all round development of the individual. It who contributed to and were involved in the
should provide not only for the acquisition of production of this syllabus.
those skills needed for economic, scientific and
technological advancement. It should also
provide for the development of cultural and
national identity and the inculcation of attitudes P. T. Ramatsui
and values which nurture respect for one’s self Permanent Secretary
and for others. Ministry of Education
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Curriculum Development Division wishes to acknowledge and pass its sincere gratitude to all colleagues who in
their own special way have collaborated and contributed in the planning, development and production of this syllabus.
Special gratitude is given to the following members of the Senior Secondary Physical Education Task force for their
invaluable commitment, dedication and contributions to the development of the syllabus.

1. Mr Jacob Kebalebile Sefhare C.J.S.S

2. Mr Ramaphoi M. Molefi Mopipi C.J.S.S
3. Mr Ritchie Motale Kalamare C.J.S.S
4. Mrs Constance M Mogotsi Gabane C.J.S.S
5. Mr Mogakolodi Chibona Tshegetsang C.J.S.S
6. Ms Gillian Peters Tonota College of Education
7. Mr Moses Moruisi University of Botswana, Dept. of Physical Education
8. Mr Comfort J Mokgothu University of Botswana, Dept. of Physical Education
9. Mr Seitshiro Matlala Botswana National Sports Council
10. Ms Mpho Ramotlhwa Baratani C.J.S.S
11. Ms Mamie Thumankwe Ntebogang C.J.S.S
12. Ms Botshelo Taolo Sephophe C.J.S.S
13. Ms Chandapiwa Lecage Marulamantsi C.J.S.S.
14. Mrs K. Mmopi Department of Non-formal Education
15. Mr.G.D. Mongwaketse Department of Youth and Culture
16. Mrs E.Kenosi-Masokwane Curriculum Development Division

Finally the Division would like to thank those who in anyway contributed towards the development of this syllabus
possible.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Content Page

Introduction.......................................................................................................................................i
Subject Rationale ..............................................................................................................................i
Aims Of Senior Secondary Programme ............................................................................................ii
Aims Of Senior Secondary Physical Education.................................................................................ii
Assessment Objectives......................................................................................................................iii
Assessment........................................................................................................................................iii

Module 1: Introduction to Physical Education: .................................................................................1

Module 2: Health and Fitness............................................................................................................2
Module 3: Ball Games ......................................................................................................................3
Module 4: Track and Field Events ....................................................................................................4
Module 5: Leisure and Recreation ....................................................................................................5
Module 6: Creative Dance ................................................................................................................6
Module 7: Sport and Society .............................................................................................................7
Module 8: Gymnastics ......................................................................................................................8
Module 9: Swimming........................................................................................................................9
Introduction

Physical Education is a new subject in the Senior Secondary Curriculum. It has been designed to build on the three year
junior secondary physical education programme and should provide the basis for further training and quality life.
It is expected that learners who would take Physical Education at senior secondary should have done it at junior
secondary. Physical Education at senior secondary schools will be offered under the enrichment group of subjects as an
optional subject.

Senior secondary philosophy calls for a balance between the theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Physical
Education concerns itself with developing a well rounded individual who is fit, healthy and knowledgeable about
physical activity The subject is centred around the main areas of sport, health, fitness, leisure and recreation. In
recognition of vision 2016, learners will be encouraged to reflect the concept of Botho , Self reliance, Unity , Democracy
and Social Harmony,

It should be noted that this syllabus demands for practical work to be done by learners, with the guidance from the
teacher. Learners who are physically challenged will be encouraged to take up modified activities which promote active
life styles. As an examinable elective, the programme will be flexible and allow for choices in the areas of specialisation
to be assessed. Games should be taught with more emphasis on teaching for understanding, so that upon completion of
senior secondary education , learners can apply the knowledge and skills learnt to choose appropriate careers, education
and life styles.

The syllabus is designed to develop each individual learner physically, mentally and socially. Physical education , with
its diverse range of activities will therefore, develop in learners knowledge, skills and attitudes that will encourage active
and healthy life styles . The syllabus caters for a wide range of abilities where each individual should perform to the best
of their own potential.

Rationale

The Physical Education programme contributes to knowledge about sport, fitness and recreation. Participation in sport
and physical recreation also contribute significantly to the quality of life by guiding learners towards the process of
becoming physically active for the rest of their lives. The programme will give learners positive experiences that will
encourage them to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to lead active healthy lifestyles. Sports and
recreation should be nurtured because they are unifying factors locally and internationally. The vital role of the
programme is to help nourish learners physically, mentally and socially by obtaining the necessary fitness levels and
motor skills to be fit for life. Physical activity, fitness, safety, recreation and sport play an important role in youth
development particularly in the areas of obesity prevention, worksite wellness, self discipline, stress reduction, positive
use of leisure time, safety and independent living for active citizenry. This will contribute to the learner’s socialization
process, physical fitness, endurance, self-reliance, self-esteem and cooperative consciousness.

Vision 2016 aspires for a healthy and an educated nation, Physical Education therefore will provide opportunities and
motivation to promote good health and performance by citizens. The benefits of sport, recreation and leisure cannot be
over-emphasized. Therefore there is a need to increase the participation rates in these activities in Botswana because a
healthy nation will have increased efficiency and productivity in everyday life situation.

With regard to the world of work, participating in physical activity may be applied to the growing sports industry of
recreation and concept of volunteerism. Physical Education will also help learners acquire knowledge on the
transmission of HIV/AIDS in sport related activities. The role of sport in HIV/AIDS awareness will be to ensure that
leisure and recreation are spent wisely.

In keeping with the spirit of Self Reliance and Botho, learners will be able to realise their own potential as well as being
equipped to empower others. The spirit of Self-Reliance and Botho should be applied within the growing sport and
recreation industry through co-operation, mass participation and volunteerism.

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Aims of the Senior Secondary Programme

On completion of the two year senior secondary programme learners should have:-
1. acquired knowledge, developed confidence and ability to assess their personal strengths and weaknesses and be
realistic in choosing appropriate career/employment opportunities and or further education and training
2. developed skills to assist them in solving technical and technological problems as they relate to day- to-day life
situations.
3. developed desirable attitudes and behavioural patterns in interacting with the environment in a manner that is
protective, preserving and nurturing.
4. acquired attitudes and values, developed basic skills and understanding to allow for execution of rights and
responsibilities as good citizens of Botswana and the world
5. developed information technology skills as well as an understanding and appreciation of their influence in the day-
to-day activities
6. acquired knowledge, attitudes and practices that will ensure good family and health practices including awareness
and management of epidemics (such as HIV/AIDS) that prepare them for productive life
7. developed pre-vocational knowledge and manipulative skills that will enable them to apply content learnt and
attitudes and values developed to practical life situations in the world of work
8. developed an understanding and acquired skills in business, everyday commercial transactions and enterpreneurship
9. developed foundation skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, communication, inquiring, team
work/interpersonal to help them to be productive and adaptive to survive in a changing environment.
10. developed study skills required for further study and training.

Aims of the Senior Secondary Physical Education

On completion of the two-year Senior Secondary Physical Education Programme learners should have:-
1. developed desirable attitudes and behavioural patterns in interacting with the environment for recreational purposes
2. acquired knowledge and developed confidence as well as ability to assess their personal strengths and weaknesses
and be realistic in choosing appropriate career opportunities, further training and /or active pursuits
3. developed pre-vocational knowledge and skills such as manipulative, locomotor, non-locomotor, stability,
emotional, inquiry and problem solving , interpersonal and sport to enable them to be productive , adaptive and
survive in a changing world
4. developed personal interests, talents and skills pertaining to performance for voluntary participation, productivity
and employment
5. acquired positive attitudes and values to allow for execution of human rights, roles and responsibilities as good
citizens in keeping with the spirit of Botho.
6. acquired knowledge that will encourage safe practices and minimise the effects of diseases such as HIV/AIDS in
the context of physical activity
7. developed an appreciation of the benefits of participating in physical education, health related activities, sports and
recreation
8. developed the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to lead an active healthy life style
9. developed co-operative and motor skills to create and evaluate physical activities
10. developed ability to plan, perform, analyse and improve physical activities

Suggested Teaching Methods

The Physical Education syllabus encourages a learner - centred approach. Emphasis will be put on skills such as problem
solving, inquiry, manipulative, locomotor and stability. Learners are expected to participate in selected activities and be
responsible for their own learning. The learner centred approach aims at catering for, and improving performance in all
learners in Botswana including those with special educational needs and differentiated abilities. The following methods
of teaching are suggested to assist learners to comprehend the subject: team work, group /individual presentations,
practice, reciprocal, inclusion, self check and problem solving to enhance learning and be accountable for their learning.
The success of the approach is dependent on thorough lesson planning and preparation.

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Assessment Objectives

Assessment syllabus for Senior Secondary level is based on the following :

1. Knowledge with understanding
2. Application[ performing and planning]
3. Analysis and problem solving [evaluation]

Descriptions of assessment objectives:

1 Knowledge with understanding:

1.1 define, describe and explain physical education concepts

1.2 identify a range of skills, rules, techniques , styles in selected activities
1.3 explain ways of improving individual performance in any physical activities
1.4 identify and explain factors that affect performance in sports context
1.5 identify reasons and opportunities for participating in physical activities
1.6 identify and explain concepts of leisure and recreation

2 Application:

2.1 demonstrate an understanding of attitudes and values of participating in physical activities

2.2 interpret information based on scenerio /situations in physical activities in sport context
2.3 demonstrate ability to lead others through activities such as officiating , running, supervising training sessions
2.4 initiate and participate actively in physical activities of their choice
2.5 plan and evaluate personal and peer performance using selected criteria

3 Analysis and Problem solving:

3.1 examine the impact of participating in physical activities on other aspects of day to day life
3.2 plan and perform advanced movement skills in selected activities
3.3 assess and evaluate personal and peer performance in any selected activity using selected criteria

Assessment

This senior secondary syllabus will be assessed through a variety of continuous assessment techniques to ensure that the
set aims and objectives are attained. Assignments, tests, moderation and projects will be used to assess the progress and
to improve instruction. At the end of the two years, a final examination will be written which will be optional as the
subject is offered as enrichment. Continuous assessment in the form of projects will contribute towards the final grade.
Assessment will be as follows: candidates will select 2 activities from each category as specialist areas. In the case of
athletics, it should be 1 field event, 1 track event with regard to ball games, candidates should select 1 game from
invasion /contact games category and 1 from striking/fielding/net/wall games. Finally candidates should select either
gymnastics or dance. A standard national assessment criterion will apply to all.
Planning, Performing and Evaluating 50%
Workbook 10%
Theory Examination 40%

Organisation of the syllabus

The content is organised according to modules. The gymnastics and water environment and hygiene modules are
optional. There are general objectives which give rise to specific objectives, to indicate the intended scope, sequence and
expectations placed on the learners on completion of each topic. The specific objectives in this syllabus are not
sequenced and the expectation is that the teacher should teach them the way they relate.

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Time allocation
Physical Education will be blocked against other subjects under enrichment as indicated in the Curriculum Blue Print.
The number of periods allocated to the subject will differ from school to school.

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 MODULE 1

INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Physical Education appreciate physical education - discuss the history of Physical Education in
as a discipline
Botswana
- discuss benefits of studying Physical Education
- discuss components of Physical Education
- explain different careers related to the study of
physical education
- differentiate between Physical Education, sport,
games, play, leisure and recreational activities
- explain the value of Physical Education to an
individual and society

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 MODULE 2

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Cardiovascular system Understand the functions of - discuss functions of the Cardiovascular system and
and the skeletal muscle the Cardiovascular system skeletal muscle
and skeletal muscle in - discuss the functions of the cardio-vascular system
relation to exercise including transportation of blood, nutrients and water
around the body
- discuss the types of muscles as smooth, skeletal and
cardiac
- discuss types of muscle contractions as isometric,
isotonic and eccentric
- explain characteristics of a muscle that enables
movement
- describe the response of cardio- vascular system to an
increased level of physical activity
- discuss the functions of the skeletal muscle
- discuss the anatomy of synovial /freely movable joints
- identify different types of joints
- explain factors that can affect movement around a
joint
- explain types of movements around a joint
- define aerobic and anaerobic energy systems
- differentiate between aerobic and anaerobic energy
systems
- explain hypo-kinetic diseases
Diet and Physical understand the concept of - differentiate between health and fitness
Activity health, skill and fitness - describe components of health related fitness
- describe components of skill related fitness
- explain the importance of maintenance of good health
- describe conditions and diseases associated with poor
nutrition, alcohol, drug abuse(substance abuse) and
sedentary living
understand the contribution - explain the effects of nutrition, alcohol,
of lifestyle to health and drugs(including tobacco) and the level of physical
fitness activity on long term good health
- discuss factors affecting fitness
- discuss the long term effects of a physically active
lifestyle on the body systems and therefore on good
general health
understand concepts related - define physical exercise
to improving levels of fitness - discuss principles of training
through safe and effective - demonstrate safety precautions in any physical
training programmes activity
- perform a range of fitness training activities
- design a health related fitness programme
evaluate physical fitness for - explain physical fitness components relevant to
selected games, track and performance
field events - describe components of training for specific games,
track and field events

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- plan programmes that could be utilised for fitness
training in a specific sport or track and field event

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 MODULE 3

BALL GAMES

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Types of games Develop skills and techniques - categorise ball games
in ball games
- participate in different sport games
- discuss sending and receiving skills for the selected
game
- demonstrate sending and receiving skills
- recognise court dimensions and positions for the
selected game
Understand strategies and - demonstrate skills, techniques, tactics and strategies
tactics in ball games
for the selected game
- demonstrate strategic play in the selected game
- describe sending and receiving skills for the selected
game
- apply skills , rules, tactics and scoring system for the
selected games
- integrate skills and techniques in a game
- compete individually and in teams in the selected
games
Demonstrate the ability to - identify strategies/formation/systems for the selected
plan, perform, analyse,
improve and evaluate ball games
games - play various positions for selected games
- evaluate individual and peer performance in selected
activities
- plan for individual performance in closed skills for
selected games
- officiate in selected activities

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 MODULE 4

ATHLETICS

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Track and Field participation in track and - categorise track and field events
field events
- participate in selected athletics activities to improve
personal fitness
- perform track and field events
- demonstrate refined key phases for athletic events
- appraise personal strengths and limitations in
athletics
- explain similarities and differences in putting,
throwing and slinging actions using a variety of
implements
- apply appropriate principles , techniques, styles and
rules to enhance performance
follow through at least three - demonstrate progressive stages in any selected track
track and field events
and field events
- develop rhythm and clear approach to a variety of
track and field events
- demonstrate preparatory and recovery measures for
the selected activities
- refine existing skills in field events and apply them to
new situations
plan, perform and evaluate - evaluate individual and peer performance in the
training and performance in
selected field events selected field events
- apply skills, techniques and principles in the selected
field events
- identify officials and their roles in selected activities
- officiate in selected field events

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 MODULE 5

ADVENTURE EDUCATION

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Leisure and Recreation appreciate the value of leisure - differentiate between leisure and l recreation
and recreational activities
- participate in leisure and recreational activities
- explain the benefits of positive use of leisure time
- analyse data relating to leisure and recreational
activities in a given area
- share skills of leisure and recreational activities with
others
- explain how individuals and communities utilise
physical recreational facilities in a given environment
- discuss factors that exclude different groups of people
from participating in physical recreational activities
- discuss ways of bringing the communities to leisure
/recreational centres
- discuss ways of promoting physical recreation in a
selected area

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 MODULE 6

CREATIVE DANCE

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Dance & Choreography Use dance as a - identify and explain different forms of dance
communication tool
- apply refined movement skills for dance to new
situations
- describe aspects of body movements
- explain and demonstrate elements of dance
- compose dances using related principles of: motif,
aspects of body movements, genre, style , form,
structure
- perform dances using narratives with variations in
type, genre, style, form and expression with / without
accompaniment

- reflect different social and cultural context in group

Appreciate a range of dance
dances
movements
- identify weak areas in composition and find ways of
improving them
- communicate the intent of the dance
- evaluate personal and peer dances

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 MODULE 7

SPORT AND SOCIETY

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Sport Participation Understand organisational - define sport in the context of society
aspects related to sport and
- discuss sporting activities in society
society
- describe organisational structure of sporting activities
in society
- recognise various levels of participation in sport
- voluntarily organise and run sports activities at local
level
- discuss the role of National Sports Organising bodies
- discuss the functions of sports clubs
- discuss the characteristics of a sports club
- explain the role of the local authority in sport such as
the chief, regional sports officers, BISA, coaches,
department of sports and recreation and youth and
culture
understand factors affecting - explain factors which affect participation in sport
participation in sport
such as motivation, level of skill, gender, age,
physique, stress, facilities
- explain societal perceptions and attitudes towards
participation in sport
understand the relationship - discuss the importance of sport and its place in
between sport and societal
society
issues
- explain the role of sport in society
- differentiate between positive and negative aspects of
sport through issues such as:
• doping
• substance abuse
• good/bad sportsmanship
• tolerance
• racism
• gender
• media influence
• hooliganism
• religion
-discuss the risks associated with doping and substance
abuse

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 MODULE 8 (Optional)

GYMNASTICS

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Gymnastic Movements understand and appreciate - refine movement skills for gymnastics
gymnastic movements
- apply movement skills for gymnastics
- identify and explain the two(2) main forms of
gymnastics as rhythmic and artistic
- perform a variety of movements with accuracy and
aesthetic form/quality
- apply safety principles in gymnastics
- demonstrate skills of balancing , travelling,
landing ,linking landing and linking
- identify skills of balancing , travelling landing ,
linking, landing and linking in gymnastics
perform and evaluate - evaluate performance through analysing, describing,
performance in gymnastics
observing and comparing
- analyse performance by observing and describing
- evaluate performance by comparing and describing

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 MODULE 9 (Optional)

WATER ENVIRONMENT AND HYGIENE

Topics General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to:- Learners should be able to:-
Swimming develop skills in swimming - identify swimming strokes
- define sculling, floating and treading in water
- discuss buoyancy
- demonstrate buoyancy in water
- demonstrate how to rest, float , tread , scull and adapt
in water
- perform a range of recognised swimming strokes such
as the front crawl, breast , back stroke , butterfly
- swim at least 20 M in a straight line unaided
- analyse performance in swimming
- tread water for at least 1 minute when out of depth
- participate in a range of confidence building activities
in water
develop proper hygiene and - perform survival techniques such as sculling ,treading
safety habits within water
environments water and floating changing directions and surface
diving
- demonstrate safety and hygiene standards in and
around water
- discuss safety procedures in and around water

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