Lesson: Exploring the Heart & Pulse

Grade Level: Middle School

Objective: To learn about the importance of a healthy heart, understand basic facts about the heart’s function, perform a healthy heart Tabata workout, and learn how to read and monitor one’s pulse before, during, and after exercise.

Materials:

Videos:

• Healthy Heart Tabata Workout Video
• How to Read Your Pulse Guide Video

Worksheet: Pulse Reading Worksheet (including pre-exercise, post-exercise, and 1-minute recovery pulse readings)

Lesson Duration: 30-45 minutes

Introduction: (5 minutes)

1. Begin with a brief discussion about the importance of staying active and keeping our hearts healthy.
2. Explain that today’s lesson will focus on understanding how the heart works, engaging in a heart-healthy workout, and learning to monitor our heart rates.

Video 1: Healthy Heart Tabata Workout: (5 minutes)

1. Show the “Healthy Heart Tabata Workout” video.
2. During the video, pause at intervals to share interesting facts about the heart’s function, such as its role in pumping blood, oxygenating the body, and delivering nutrients.
3. Emphasize the importance of cardiovascular exercise for maintaining a healthy heart.

Discussion: (10 minutes)

1. Lead a class discussion about the key points covered in the workout video and the heart’s role in maintaining overall health.
2. Ask students to share their thoughts on the exercises and how they felt while performing them.

Video 2: How to Read Your Pulse Guide: (10 minutes)

1. Distribute the Pulse Reading Worksheet.
2. Show the “How to Read Your Pulse Guide” video.
3. Guide students through the step-by-step process of reading their pulse before exercise, after exercise, and after a 1-minute recovery.
4. Emphasize the concept of monitoring heart rate as a way to understand cardiovascular fitness and exercise intensity.

Cool-Down and Reflection: (5 minutes)

1. Lead a short cool-down session involving gentle stretches.
2. Ask students to reflect on what they’ve learned about the heart, exercise, and monitoring their pulse.
3. Allow students to share their experiences and observations.

Homework Assignment: (Optional, for further reinforcement)

1. Have students complete a short written reflection on what they learned about the heart’s function, the benefits of exercise, and the importance of monitoring their pulse.

Assessment:

• Informal assessment during discussions and activity participation.
• Review of completed Pulse Reading Worksheets to ensure understanding of pulse monitoring.

Extensions:

• Discuss the concept of target heart rate zones and how different levels of exercise intensity impact the heart.
• Explore different types of cardiovascular exercises and their benefits.

Note: Make sure to consider any individual student’s needs or accommodations as required in an adapted physical education setting. If applicable, collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure student safety during physical activities.

For more heart resources visit: https://netflexkids.com/?s=heart