YourStateStandards

Utah K–6 physical education standards

Utah writes its own physical education standards. They are published as Utah Core Standards for Physical Education, adopted 2016 and are not a version of a national framework. Every one is matched to a national standard.

Framework
Utah Core Standards for Physical Education
Adopted
2016
Source last checked
August 9, 2026
Read the official document

250 standards, kindergarten through 6th grade

  • K.1.1K

    Perform hopping, galloping, running, sliding, skipping, jumping, and landing while maintaining balance.

  • K.1.2K

    Perform locomotor skills in response to teacher-led creative dance.

  • K.1.3K

    Contrast the actions of curling and stretching the body.

  • K.1.4K

    Maintain momentary stillness on different bases of support.

  • K.1.5K

    Form wide, narrow, curled, and twisted body shapes.

  • K.1.6K

    Transfer weight from one foot to another using various speeds.

  • K.1.7K

    Roll sideways in a narrow body shape.

  • K.1.8K

    Drop a ball and catch it before it bounces twice.

  • K.1.9K

    Catch a large ball tossed by a skilled thrower.

  • K.1.10K

    Toss underhand with opposite foot forward.

  • K.1.11K

    Dribble a ball with one hand, attempting the second contact.

  • K.1.12K

    Tap a ball using the inside of the foot sending it forward.

  • K.1.13K

    Kick a stationary ball from a stationary position.

  • K.1.14K

    Volley a lightweight object (e.g., a balloon), sending it upward.

  • K.1.15K

    Strike a lightweight object with a short-handled implement.

  • K.1.16K

    Execute a single jump with self-turned rope.

  • K.1.17K

    Jump a long rope with teacher-assisted turning.

  • K.2.1K

    Differentiate between movement in personal space and general space.

  • K.2.2K

    Travel in three different pathways.

  • K.2.3K

    Travel in general space with different speeds.

  • K.3.1K

    Identify active play opportunities outside physical education class.

  • K.3.2K

    Actively participate in physical activities in class.

  • K.3.3K

    Recognize that when you move fast, your heart beats faster and you breathe more heavily.

  • K.3.4K

    Recognize that food provides energy for physical activity.

  • K.3.5K

    Recognize the role proper hydration is necessary during physical activity.

  • K.4.1K

    Follow directions in a group setting (e.g., safe behaviors, following rules, taking turns) and recognize responsible behavior while following instruction with teacher prompt and minimal reminders.

  • K.4.2K

    Share equipment and space with others.

  • K.4.3K

    Understand established procedures for class activities.

  • K.5.1K

    Recognize that physical activity is important for good health.

  • K.5.2K

    Acknowledge that some physical activities are challenging and difficult.

  • K.5.3K

    Identify physical activities that are enjoyable.

  • K.5.4K

    Discuss the enjoyment of participating in activities with others.

  • 1.1.11

    Hop, gallop, jog and slide, using a mature pattern.

  • 1.1.21

    Demonstrate two of the five critical elements for jumping and landing in a horizontal and vertical plane, using two-foot take-off and landing.

  • 1.1.31

    Combine locomotor and non-locomotor skills in a teacher-designed dance.

  • 1.1.41

    Demonstrate twisting, curling, bending, and stretching action.

  • 1.1.51

    Maintain stillness on different bases of support with a variety of body shapes.

  • 1.1.61

    Transfer weight from one body part to another, using self-space in a movement environment.

  • 1.1.71

    Roll with either a narrow or curled body shape.

  • 1.1.81

    Catch a soft object from a self-toss before it bounces.

  • 1.1.91

    Catch various size balls when self-tossed or tossed by a skilled thrower.

  • 1.1.101

    Toss underhand, demonstrating two of the five critical elements of a well-developed pattern.

  • 1.1.111

    Dribble continuously in personal-space using preferred hand.

  • 1.1.121

    Tap a ball using the inside of the foot while walking in general space.

  • 1.1.131

    Approach a stationary ball and kick it forward, demonstrating two of the five critical elements of a well-developed pattern.

  • 1.1.141

    Volley an object with an open palm, sending it upward.

  • 1.1.151

    Strike a ball with a short-handled implement, sending it upward.

  • 1.1.161

    Jump forward or backward consecutively, using a self-turned rope.

  • 1.1.171

    Jump a long rope up to five times consecutively with teacher-assisted turning.

  • 1.2.11

    Move in personal space and general space while participating in activity or dance.

  • 1.2.21

    Travel demonstrating low- and high-level relationships with objects (e.g., over, under, around and through).

  • 1.2.31

    Differentiate between fast and slow speed in open space.

  • 1.3.11

    Discuss the benefits of being active and exercising.

  • 1.3.21

    Actively engage in physical activity during class.

  • 1.3.31

    Identify the heart as a muscle that grows stronger with exercise, play, and physical activity.

  • 1.3.41

    Differentiate between healthy and unhealthy foods.

  • 1.3.51

    Describe how proper hydration is important when participating in physical activity.

  • 1.4.11

    Accept personal responsibility by using equipment and space appropriately.

  • 1.4.21

    Follow rules and parameters of the learning environment.

  • 1.4.31

    Accept personal feedback from teacher.

  • 1.4.41

    Work independently and with others in a variety of class environments.

  • 1.4.51

    Follow procedures for class activities.

  • 1.4.61

    Follow directions for safe participation and proper use of equipment without teacher reminders.

  • 1.5.11

    Identify physical activity as a component of good health.

  • 1.5.21

    Recognize that challenges in physical activity can lead to success.

  • 1.5.31

    Describe positive feelings and personal reasons for enjoying physical activity.

  • 1.5.41

    Discuss the enjoyment of participating in activities with others.

  • 2.1.12

    Skip, demonstrating a well-developed pattern.

  • 2.1.22

    Run, using a well-developed pattern while differentiating between jogging and running.

  • 2.1.32

    Demonstrate four of the five critical elements for jumping and landing in a horizontal and vertical plane, using a variety of one-and two-foot takeoffs and landings.

  • 2.1.42

    Perform a teacher/student-designed dance/rhythmic activity with correct response to simple rhythms.

  • 2.1.52

    Differentiate twisting, curling, bending and stretching actions.

  • 2.1.62

    Balance using various levels and body shapes, with and without moving.

  • 2.1.72

    Roll in different directions with a narrow or curled body shape.

  • 2.1.82

    Catch a self-tossed or well-thrown large ball with hands, not trapping or cradling against the body.

  • 2.1.92

    Toss underhand, demonstrating three of the five critical elements of a well-developed pattern.

  • 2.1.102

    Throw overhand, demonstrating two of the five critical elements of a well-developed pattern.

  • 2.1.112

    Dribble with preferred hand in personal and general space while walking demonstrating a well-developed pattern.

  • 2.1.122

    Dribble with feet in general space with control of ball and body.

  • 2.1.132

    By means of a continuous running approach, kick a moving ball using a well-developed kicking pattern.

  • 2.1.142

    Volley a lightweight object upward with consecutive hits.

  • 2.1.152

    While using a short-handled implement, strike an object upward with consecutive hits.

  • 2.1.162

    Strike a ball off a tee or cone with a long-handled implement.

  • 2.1.172

    Jump a self-turned rope consecutively forward and backward using a well-developed pattern.

  • 2.1.182

    Jump a long rope five consecutive times with skilled student turners.

  • 2.2.12

    Combine locomotor skills in general space.

  • 2.2.22

    Combine dance movement using shapes, levels and pathways with variations on time and force.

  • 2.2.32

    Use time and force to gradually increase and decrease movement through space.

  • 2.3.12

    Identify physical activity outside of physical education class that contributes to fitness (e.g., before and after school, in the regular classroom, at home, with friends and family).

  • 2.3.22

    Participate in physical activity in response to instruction and practice.

  • 2.3.32

    Recognize the need for a proper balance of good nutrition and physical activity.

  • 2.3.42

    Describe how proper hydration is important while participating in physical activity.

  • 2.4.12

    Accepts personal responsibility for class protocol and demonstrates appropriate behavior and performance in class activities with minimal teacher prompting.

  • 2.4.22

    Work collaboratively in pairs and small groups.

  • 2.4.32

    Demonstrate safe and respectful behavior towards classmates and equipment during physical activity.

  • 2.5.12

    Recognize the value of a healthy balance between nutrition and physical activity.

  • 2.5.22

    Identify physical activities that build confidence and challenge.

  • 2.5.32

    Identify physical activities that provide self-expression.

  • 2.5.42

    Discuss how working together can result in a positive outcome.

  • 3.1.13

    Demonstrate leaping, using a mature pattern.

  • 3.1.23

    Establish differentiation between running and sprinting.

  • 3.1.33

    Develop jumping and landing in horizontal and vertical planes.

  • 3.1.43

    Perform teacher-selected and developmentally appropriate dance steps and movement patterns.

  • 3.1.53

    Move in and out of balancing, using curling, twisting and stretching actions.

  • 3.1.63

    Demonstrate balance and weight transfers, using movement concepts to create and perform a dance or rhythmic activity.

  • 3.1.73

    Catch a gently tossed ball from a partner.

  • 3.1.83

    Throw an underhand toss to a partner or target with reasonable accuracy.

  • 3.1.93

    Dribble and travel with a ball at slow to moderate jogging speed, with control of body and ball.

  • 3.1.103

    Perform a controlled foot dribble in general space at slow to moderate speed.

  • 3.1.113

    Receive a passed ball with the inside of the foot and pass to a stationary partner.

  • 3.1.123

    Kick a ball along the ground and in the air while running.

  • 3.1.133

    Use a continuous running approach to kick a stationary ball for accuracy.

  • 3.1.143

    Perform intermediate jump rope skills using long and short ropes.

  • 3.2.13

    Recognize open space and how using it will gain advantage.

  • 3.2.23

    Apply locomotor skills as they relate to a variety of activities.

  • 3.2.33

    Combine movement concepts (e.g., direction, force, levels, and time) with skills as directed by the teacher.

  • 3.2.43

    Apply simple strategies and tactics in chasing activities.

  • 3.2.53

    Apply simple strategies in fleeing activities.

  • 3.3.13

    Develop a plan for participation in physical activities outside class.

  • 3.3.23

    Participate in activities during class without teacher prompting.

  • 3.3.33

    Engage in a variety of choices during recess.

  • 3.3.43

    Describe examples of physical activity which enhances fitness.

  • 3.3.53

    Recognize the importance of warm-up and cool-down.

  • 3.3.63

    Demonstrate, with teacher direction, the health-related fitness components of cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility. (Body composition should not be assessed at this grade level and is not recommended.)

  • 3.3.73

    Generate a list of fitness-related activities in which the student participates outside of school hours.

  • 3.3.83

    Compare the balance of good nutrition and physical activity.

  • 3.3.93

    Understand the importance of hydration during physical activity.

  • 3.4.13

    Exhibit personal responsibility in teacher-directed activities.

  • 3.4.23

    Work independently for extended periods of time.

  • 3.4.33

    Respond appropriately to suggestions given by teacher.

  • 3.4.43

    Work cooperatively with peers.

  • 3.4.53

    Recognize others' success in movement performance.

  • 3.4.63

    Exhibit etiquette and adherence to rules in a variety of physical activities.

  • 3.4.73

    Demonstrate understanding of safety, rules, and etiquette by working safely and cooperatively in physical activity.

  • 3.5.13

    Discuss the relationship between physical activity and good health.

  • 3.5.23

    Reflect on the personal selection of particular physical activities over other options.

  • 3.5.33

    Discuss the challenge that comes from learning a new physical activity.

  • 3.5.43

    Describe the positive social interactions that result from participation in physical activity.

  • 4.1.14

    Use spring-and-step takeoffs while jumping and landing.

  • 4.1.24

    Run for distance, using pacing and a well-developed pattern.

  • 4.1.34

    Move into and out of balances with curling, twisting, and stretching actions.

  • 4.1.44

    Combine locomotor skills and movement concepts (e.g., levels, shapes, extensions, pathways, force, time, and flow) to create and perform a dance or rhythmic activity with a partner.

  • 4.1.54

    Combine locomotor movement patterns and dance steps to create and perform an original dance.

  • 4.1.64

    Use various motor skills in a variety of small group practice tasks.

  • 4.1.74

    Catch and throw a ball above the head, at chest/waist level, and below the waist, using a well-developed pattern in a non-dynamic environment.

  • 4.1.84

    Throw underhand to a partner or at a target with accuracy and increased distance.

  • 4.1.94

    Dribble with the hand in personal space with both the preferred and non-preferred hand, using a well-developed pattern.

  • 4.1.104

    Dribble in general space with control of ball and body while increasing and decreasing speed.

  • 4.1.114

    Throw overhand, using a well-developed pattern with accuracy.

  • 4.1.124

    Throw overhand to a partner, or at a target at a reasonable distance.

  • 4.1.134

    Volley with a two-hand overhead pattern, sending a ball upward with consecutive hits.

  • 4.1.144

    Dribble with feet in general space, maintaining control of ball and body while increasing and decreasing speed.

  • 4.1.154

    Receive a ball with the insides of the foot and pass to a moving partner in a non-dynamic environment.

  • 4.1.164

    Receive a ball with the outside and inside of the foot and return the pass to a stationary partner.

  • 4.1.174

    Combine traveling with the manipulative skills of dribbling, throwing, catching and striking in teacher- and/or student-designed small group activities (3–5 students).

  • 4.1.184

    Create and perform a jump rope routine with either a short or long rope.

  • 4.2.14

    Apply the concept of open spaces to combination skills (e.g., getting open for a pass, dribbling to create space).

  • 4.2.24

    Apply the movement concepts of speed, endurance, and pacing for running.

  • 4.2.34

    Combine movement concepts with skills in small group (3–5) activities and/or dance.

  • 4.2.44

    Apply the concepts of direction and force when striking an object with a short-handled implement, sending it toward a designated target.

  • 4.2.54

    Apply simple offensive strategies and tactics in chasing and fleeing activities.

  • 4.2.64

    Apply simple defensive strategies/tactics in chasing and fleeing activities.

  • 4.2.74

    Recognize the types of kicks needed for different game and sport situations.

  • 4.3.14

    Analyze opportunities for participating in physical activity outside physical education class.

  • 4.3.24

    Actively engage in the activities of physical education class, both teacher-directed and independent.

  • 4.3.34

    Identify the components of health-related fitness (e.g., cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility).

  • 4.3.44

    Demonstrate prescribed warm-up and cool-down relative to level of exercise.

  • 4.4.14

    Exhibit responsible behavior in independent group situations.

  • 4.4.24

    Reflect on personal social behavior in physical activity.

  • 4.4.34

    Listen respectfully to corrective feedback from others (e.g., peers, adults).

  • 4.4.44

    Praise the movement performance of others both more and less skilled.

  • 4.4.54

    Accept students of all skill levels into the physical activity.

  • 4.4.64

    Exhibit etiquette and adherence to rules in a variety of physical activities.

  • 4.4.74

    Work safely with peers and equipment in physical activity settings.

  • 4.5.14

    Examine the health benefits of participating in physical activity.

  • 4.5.24

    Rate the enjoyment of participating in challenging and mastered physical activities.

  • 4.5.34

    Critique the level of enjoyment after participating in various physical activities.

  • 4.5.44

    Describe/compare the positive social interactions when engaged in partner, small group and large group physical activities.

  • 5.1.15

    Demonstrate a well-developed pattern of locomotor skills in small group practice tasks and dance.

  • 5.1.25

    Demonstrate a combination of locomotor and manipulative skills in a variety of small group activities.

  • 5.1.35

    Create a combination of moving and shooting skills to a scoring target.

  • 5.1.45

    Run various distances, demonstrating an understanding of pace for highest performance.

  • 5.1.55

    Use locomotor skills in cultural as well as creative dances with correct rhythm and pattern.

  • 5.1.65

    Participate in a small group activity or dance using curling, twisting, and stretching actions.

  • 5.1.75

    Catch a ball above the head, chest, at waist level, and along the ground using a well-developed pattern, with or without a partner.

  • 5.1.85

    Throw and catch a ball while both partners are moving.

  • 5.1.95

    Catch and throw a ball with accuracy in small group activities.

  • 5.1.105

    Combine foot dribbling with other skills in practice using one-on-one tasks.

  • 5.1.115

    Use feet to dribble and pass while moving with a partner.

  • 5.1.125

    Dribble with one hand or foot with accuracy in a small group activity.

  • 5.1.135

    Volley a ball using a two-hand overhead pattern, sending it upward to a target.

  • 5.1.145

    Combine manipulative skills while moving toward a target to execute a score.

  • 5.1.155

    Create a jump rope routine with a partner, using either a short or long rope.

  • 5.2.15

    Combine spatial concepts with locomotor and non-locomotor movement in small group and dance activities.

  • 5.2.25

    Use movement strategies in small game situations.

  • 5.2.35

    Apply direction and force when striking an object with a long-handled implement, sending it toward a designated target.

  • 5.2.45

    Use basic offensive and defensive strategies and tactics in small group games.

  • 5.2.55

    Distinguish the type of throw, volley or striking action needed for different activities and sporting games.

  • 5.3.15

    Chart and analyze physical activity outside physical education class, identifying the fitness benefits.

  • 5.3.25

    Engage in a wide variety of physical activities.

  • 5.3.35

    Identify the components of skill-related fitness (e.g., agility, balance, coordination, power, reaction time, speed).

  • 5.3.45

    Recognize the need for warm-up and cool-down relative to various physical activities.

  • 5.3.55

    Chart results of fitness assessment (pre and post). Compare the results as they relate to good health.

  • 5.3.65

    Design a fitness plan to address ways to use physical activity to enhance fitness.

  • 5.3.75

    Analyze the impact of food choices and hydration relative to physical activity, sports, and personal health.

  • 5.3.85

    Select physical activities to reduce stress outside of class.

  • 5.4.15

    Demonstrate interpersonal behavior with peers and teachers during physical activity.

  • 5.4.25

    Exhibit respect for self with appropriate behavior while engaging in physical activity.

  • 5.4.35

    Respectfully give feedback to peers.

  • 5.4.45

    Accept, recognize, and actively involve others with both higher and lower skill abilities into physical activities and group projects.

  • 5.4.55

    Apply safety principles while engaged in age-appropriate physical activities.

  • 5.5.15

    Compare various physical activities and the benefits derived from participation.

  • 5.5.25

    Express (in a written essay, visual art, or creative dance) the enjoyment and/or challenge of participating in a favorite physical activity.

  • 5.5.35

    Analyze different physical activities for enjoyment and challenge; identify reasons for positive or negative responses.

  • 5.5.45

    Describe the social benefits gained from participating in physical activity.

  • 6.1.16

    Create an open space by using locomotor movement and change of speed and direction during activity.

  • 6.1.26

    Demonstrate competency in locomotor skills as applied to small group games (i.e., 3-5 players), such as basketball, flag football, and speedball.

  • 6.1.36

    Combine movement with manipulative skills to reach a target and score a goal (e.g., soccer, hockey, basketball).

  • 6.1.46

    Demonstrate correct rhythm and patterns for a dance form (e.g., folk, social, creative, line or world dance).

  • 6.1.56

    Perform a rhythmic dance using drumming, and incorporate complete movement using ropes, balls, or Lummi sticks.

  • 6.1.66

    Use locomotor and non-locomotor skills to teach a group dance or rhythmic activity.

  • 6.1.76

    Catch a variety of objects from different trajectories, using varying practice tasks.

  • 6.1.86

    Execute consistently (i.e., 70% of the time) a well-developed underhand pattern for target games such as bowling, bocci, or horseshoes.

  • 6.1.96

    Dribble with the dominant hand, using a change of speed and direction in a variety of practice tasks.

  • 6.1.106

    Complete a variety of practice tasks; dribble with control, changing speed and direction.

  • 6.1.116

    Pass and receive with the feet, using a well-developed pattern in a small group activity.

  • 6.1.126

    Demonstrate a complete skill by dribbling and shooting on goal with power in a game setting.

  • 6.1.136

    Demonstrate a well-developed form of the overhead volley through implementation in a game setting.

  • 6.1.146

    Create a jump rope routine with repeated patterns and combinations of movement.

  • 6.2.16

    Demonstrate individual strategies in a small group setting in both defensive and offensive situations to create or deny open space.

  • 6.2.26

    Apply speed, direction, and force using a long-handled implement, sending it toward a specific target area while in motion.

  • 6.2.36

    Execute an offensive tactic, such as pivots, fakes, or change of direction away from the ball, to create open space.

  • 6.2.46

    Reduce open space on defense, by making the body larger and reducing the passing angles.

  • 6.3.16

    Record daily activity and identify benefits gained. Describe how being physically active leads to a healthy body.

  • 6.3.26

    Participate in self-selected physical activity outside of physical education class.

  • 6.3.36

    Differentiate between skill-related and health-related fitness.

  • 6.3.46

    Explain the role of warm-up and cool-down before and after physical activity.

  • 6.3.56

    Design and implement a program of remediation for any area of weakness based on results of health-related fitness assessment.

  • 6.3.66

    Select food within each of the basic food groups, and select appropriate servings and portions for age and physical activity level.

  • 6.3.76

    Identify positive and negative results from stress and appropriate ways of dealing with each.

  • 6.4.16

    Exhibit personal responsibility by using appropriate etiquette, demonstrates respect for facilities and exhibits safe behaviors.

  • 6.4.26

    Identify and use appropriate strategies to self-reinforce positive fitness behaviors, such as positive self-talk.

  • 6.4.36

    Demonstrate understanding that there are differences among classmates in physical development, maturation and varying skill levels by providing encouragement and positive feedback to peers.

  • 6.4.46

    Demonstrate understanding of rules and etiquette for physical activities, games, and dance.

  • 6.4.56

    Use physical activity and fitness equipment appropriately and safely, with minimal teacher guidance.

  • 6.5.16

    Describe how being physically active leads to a healthy body.

  • 6.5.26

    Identify why physical activity participation reduces stress and promotes positive social interaction.

  • 6.5.36

    Understand that personal challenges can be positive and reaction can build personal satisfaction through acceptance of feedback, extending effort and not being afraid to ask for help.

  • 6.5.46

    Describe how participation in a physical activity creates enjoyment.

  • 6.5.56

    Demonstrate respect for self and others in activities and games by following the rules, encouraging others, and playing in the spirit of the game or activity.

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