The skill theme approach describes both the content (what is taught) and the pedagogy(how it is taught) that are used in a developmentally appropriate program of physical education.
This approach recognizes that age or grade levels are inappropriate indicators of physical ability; therefore lessons are designed to consider different abilities and interests.
The Curriculum Diamond provides an overview of how content can be sequentially developed so that elementary, middle school, and high school programs work together to provide a solid movement foundation for youngsters to attain the competence and confidence to remain physically active throughout a lifetime.
Initially the skill theme approach emphasizes the development of fundamental motor skills(e.g., throwing, balancing, striking). As the children progress in ability, the skill themes are taught in sports, games,dance,and gymnastics contexts.
Because of the rapid changes in children's development, skill themes are revisited throughout the year rather than taught in units of several weeks.
Concepts related to physical fitness and the cognitive and affective domains are interwoven throughout the lessons.