Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1, SS 1, SSS1, SSS 1)
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 10
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Physical Education
Curriculum Theme: Physical Education
Previous Lesson: Adapted Physical Education Programme II.
Topic: Adapted Physical Education Programme
Subject Matter: adapted physical education programme, definition of major concepts in adapted physical education, categories of people with special needs, examples of special needs conditions
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
Cognitive Domain:
- Define Adapted Physical Education (APE).
- Explain major concepts related to APE.
- Identify different categories of people with special needs.
- List examples of various special needs conditions.
Affective Domain:
- Appreciate the importance of Adapted Physical Education for individuals with special needs.
- Show empathy and understanding towards people living with special needs.
Psychomotor Domain:
- Participate actively in discussions about Adapted Physical Education.
- Take clear notes on key definitions and concepts.
Social Domain:
- Interact respectfully with peers when discussing issues related to special needs.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum (Physical and Health Education)
- State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary Schools
- Physical and Health Education for Senior Secondary Schools 1 by J.S. Idowu et al.
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Pictures and posters showing individuals participating in adapted physical activities.
- CD-ROMs/videos demonstrating adapted physical education programmes.
- Whiteboard/chalkboard and markers/chalk.
Rationale for the Lesson
This lesson helps pupils understand how physical education can be modified to meet the diverse needs of all individuals, including those with disabilities. It enables pupils to develop a more inclusive perspective and appreciate the right of everyone to participate in physical activities.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils have a basic understanding of physical education activities and general health concepts.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
Adapted Physical Education Programme
Definition of Adapted Physical Education (APE)
Adapted Physical Education (APE) is a diversified programme of developmental activities, games, sports, and rhythms suited to the interests, capacities, and limitations of pupils with disabilities who may not safely or successfully engage in unrestricted participation in the regular physical education programme.
Major Concepts in Adapted Physical Education
Some major concepts include:
- Inclusion: The practice of integrating pupils with disabilities into regular physical education classes alongside their non-disabled peers, with appropriate support and modifications.
- Mainstreaming: Placing pupils with disabilities into regular classrooms or activities to the maximum extent possible, often with the expectation that they will adapt to the existing environment.
- Individualised Education Programme (IEP): A written plan developed for each public school pupil who is eligible for special education, detailing their educational goals, services, and how progress will be measured. For APE, it outlines specific physical activity goals and adaptations.
Categories of People with Special Needs
People with special needs can be categorised based on the nature of their challenges. The following are common categories:
- Physical Disabilities: Conditions affecting mobility, motor skills, or physical endurance (e.g., cerebral palsy, spina bifida, amputation).
- Sensory Impairments: Conditions affecting sight or hearing (e.g., visual impairment, hearing impairment).
- Intellectual Disabilities: Conditions characterised by significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour (e.g., Down syndrome, global developmental delay).
- Learning Disabilities: Conditions affecting the ability to acquire and process information, leading to difficulties in specific academic areas (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia).
- Emotional/Behavioral Disorders: Conditions characterised by emotional or behavioural responses that are significantly different from appropriate age, ethnic, or cultural norms (e.g., anxiety disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder).
Examples of Special Needs Conditions
Specific examples of special needs conditions include:
- Cerebral Palsy
- Spina Bifida
- Amputation
- Visual Impairment (Blindness, Low Vision)
- Hearing Impairment (Deafness, Hard of Hearing)
- Down Syndrome
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Asthma
- Diabetes
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them to reflect on the diversity of people they see around them, particularly in terms of physical abilities. The teacher then introduces the topic of Adapted Physical Education, explaining that not everyone can participate in regular physical activities without some modifications.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the teacher’s questions and listen attentively to the introduction.
Learning Point: Pupils are introduced to the concept of diverse physical abilities and the need for adapted activities.
Step 2: Definition of Adapted Physical Education and Major Concepts
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Clarification
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines Adapted Physical Education (APE) and explains key concepts such as inclusion, mainstreaming, and Individualised Education Programme (IEP), using simple language and practical examples. The teacher writes the definitions on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, ask questions for clarification, and take notes of the definitions and concepts.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the meaning of APE and its core principles.
Step 3: Categories of People with Special Needs
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Categorisation/Illustration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the different categories of people with special needs (physical, sensory, intellectual, emotional/behavioral) and provides brief descriptions for each. The teacher uses pictures or posters to illustrate some of these categories.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the illustrations, contribute to the discussion, and note down the categories.
Learning Point: Pupils learn to classify individuals with special needs into broad categories.
Step 4: Examples of Special Needs Conditions
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Listing/Elaboration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher provides specific examples of conditions under each category of special needs, such as cerebral palsy, visual impairment, Down syndrome, and autism. The teacher briefly describes how these conditions might affect participation in physical activities.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, identify conditions they are familiar with, and write down the examples.
Learning Point: Pupils gain knowledge of common special needs conditions.
Step 5: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:
- Define Adapted Physical Education (APE).
- Mention two major concepts in Adapted Physical Education.
- List three categories of people with special needs.
- Give two examples of special needs conditions.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.
Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.
Step 6: Conclusion
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarisation/Reinforcement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarises the key points of the lesson, reinforcing the importance of inclusive practices in physical education for all individuals. The teacher encourages pupils to show respect and understanding towards people with special needs.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and ask any final questions.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their understanding and are encouraged to apply the learning in their daily lives.
Lesson Keywords
- Adapted Physical Education (APE) – A diversified programme of physical activities for individuals with disabilities.
- Special Needs – Conditions requiring specific support or adaptations to meet individual requirements.
- Inclusion – Integrating individuals with disabilities into regular settings with support.
- Mainstreaming – Placing individuals with disabilities into regular environments to the maximum extent possible.
- Individualised Education Programme (IEP) – A written plan detailing educational goals and services for pupils with special needs.
- Cerebral Palsy – A neurological disorder affecting movement and muscle coordination.
- Visual Impairment – A condition involving reduced or absent vision.
- Down Syndrome – A genetic disorder causing developmental and intellectual delays.
Differentiation
For pupils who are fast learners, the teacher can encourage them to research specific adapted sports or famous athletes with disabilities. For pupils who need more support, the teacher can provide simplified notes or pair them with a peer for collaborative learning during note-taking and discussion.
Note for teachers using this lesson plan
Teachers should ensure a sensitive and respectful approach when discussing special needs, emphasising abilities rather than disabilities. Real-life examples and visual aids will greatly enhance pupils’ understanding and empathy.

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