LG Voyager

In a few days, my 2 year agreement will be up on my phone. I'm pretty excited because I've been wanting the new LG Voyager for a while! It has an interactive touch screen and a full keyboard for texting. The phone is a little larger than what I have now, but I don't think it will really bother me. But, the Voyager is a little on the expensive side, but I'm sure it will be worth it because it has so many neat features. I've always been jealous because a few of my friends already have the phone that I want. But, hopefully in a few days, I will have the new LG Voyager and be texting away with the full keyboard!

Heart Rate Monitors

In Tech PETE today, we went down to the ARC and worked with heart rate monitors. Since I had Fitness Education last semester, I was very familiar with them. I believe that implementing heart rate monitors into physical education classes would be an excellent idea. They are very effective and students will have something to work towards. Also, the students are definitely held accountable because it is totally up to them to get into their target heart rate zone. I think that heart rate monitors are better than pedometers, but they are more expensive. I feel as though if a school is capable of receiving a grant, then the school should definitely invest in heart rate monitors for their physical educations classes.

Tai Chi

At the mini-convention today, I attended the 9:00 session, which was "The simplified Tai Chi: A Lifetime, Health-Enhancing Activity." The presenters were Dr. Liu and Wei Bian. This activity session was very interesting because I knew nothing about Tai Chi. Dr. Liu did a full 3 minute routine, and it was excellent! Then, everyone in the stands had a chance to go down on the court and practice. We learned the basic steps and pushing-hand movement of the simplified Tai Chi. There were a lot of participants and everyone seemed like they were having a good time. I'm glad that I was introduced to Tai Chi because it can definitely be something new to incorporate into Physical Education classes.

Mini-Convention

Since I was on the decorations committee, I helped get everything set up in the Field House for the mini-convention tomorrow. We put balloons and streamers throughout the Field House. Also, we set up several tables and chairs for people to eat in the wrestling room. I always enjoy attending the mini-convention that SRU hosts because all the sessions are so interesting. I'm lifeguarding over the synchronized swimming show at 10:00 a.m., and since the show was so good last year, I'm excited to see another one. I'm sure that everything will go smoothly with the different speakers and presentations because a lot of time was spent organizing the mini-convention.

Candace Parker

Candace Parker was selected No. 1 by the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA draft on Wednesday. This all happened just a day after ending her college career by leading Tennessee to a second straight NCAA title. Parker will be playing alongside her idol, Lisa Leslie, in the WNBA. With these 2 playing on the same team, I can't wait to see how dominant they are on the court. Pat Summit's team has always been a favorite of mine, and I was very excited to see them win the championship. Also, Candace Parker is so amazing and I'm sure that she will do great things for the WNBA.

Lava Pit

In Outdoor Pursuits today, we went to the low ropes course again. The activity that we completed was called "Lava Pit." Since I have already done this activity, I knew the strategy that was needed to finish it. There were 8 cinder blocks that were several feet apart, and 4 4x4 boards that were 8 feet long. The objective of the activity was to lay the boards on the cinder blocks and get everyone in the class across to the other side. You could not step into the "Lava Pit" or let the boards hit the ground. If a board would happen to hit the ground, that particular board could no longer be used. This activity was very challenging, but our class completed it. In my opinion, I didn't really like this activity because it took about an hour to complete, and there was a lot of standing around. But, "Lava Pit" did involve a lot of communication and trust from each classmate. It also was nice to just be outside and enjoy the beautiful weather.

Wild Woozey

In Outdoor Pursuits today, we went behind the ski-lodge and up to the low ropes course. First, we had to walk through the woods in a "Blind Trust Walk" to get to the course. It was very muddy and cold out, so I miserable the whole time. When we finally got to the low ropes course, we did an activity called "Wild Woozey." There were 2 wire cables attached to trees, and this activity involved 2 people walking on different cables. The 2 people had to balance and lean on each other as the wires got further apart. When it was my turn to go, I was really nervous and had a partner who was a lot heavier than we. All I did was lean on the person the entire time and we almost made it to the end of the wire cable. I enjoyed the "Wild Woozey" because it was something I've never done before. I look forward to going to the low ropes course again.

Ropes Course

Over the weekend, my Outdoor Pursuits class was supposed to go on a camping trip to Allegheny National Forest. Luckily, something went wrong and we were unable to reserve the two 15-passenger vans for the trip. Instead, we moved to plan "C" and set up our camp behind the ski-lodge on campus. Then, we ate lunch and went up to the high ropes course all day. I had so much fun on the course because it was something I've never done before. Even though it was cold and windy, I completed the whole course and really enjoyed myself. I'm so thankful we did not go on the camping trip because I packed very lightly and probably would have been miserable. But, I'm glad that Jeff Smith had a back-up plan and I think it really worked out in his favor.

Scheduling Classes

In the next few weeks, everyone will need to schedule their classes for next semester. This is always such a stressful time for me. Hopefully I will get into a few of my classes since I schedule April 11th. It's so frustrating how some classes are only offered during the fall semester because so many people try to get into them. Also, I've taken all my liberal studies courses already, so I will be forced to try and get into classes that everyone needs. Our major is so large, and I feel as though there aren't enough classes available. The only thing I can do is hope for the best and I'm sure everything will work out fine!

Drug Testing - For Athletes or Everyone?

When posting on the NASPE Forum, I talked about drug testing because it is a very controversial subject these days. When drug testing at the high school level, why do most schools only test student-athletes, and not the other students? I question this because this is what took place when I was in high school. In my opinion, I feel as though the students who do not participate in extra-curricular activities are the ones doing drugs and other illegal acts. I do not think it’s fair to single out athletes because they are most likely the ones to test negative for drug tests. So my question to you is: Do you think drug testing should be for all high school students, or just the athletes?

NASPE Talk

After posting twice on NASPE Talk, I've realized how easy and beneficial it is to communicate with people all over the nation and world on PE related issues. Also, I think it's necessary for all the messages to go through a moderator before they get posted. After I posted twice, I received several responses within 24 hours. Everyone was so helpful and interested in my suggestions and questions. Therefore, I will most definitely use this communication tool when I teach in the near future. It's a great way to get quick feedback, as well as letting other people know your particular ideas. I'm so glad I learned about NAPSE Talk early in my education because if I'm having trouble on a PE project or lesson plan, I will not hesitate to post a message or check the archives.

Childhood Obesity

In the past month, I've done my webpage and a newsletter on childhood obesity. Obesity in children is now epidemic in the United States. In the last two or three decades, the number of children who are overweight has doubled. Currently, one child in five is overweight. This increase is not only seen in children, but also in adolesccents. A news report has stated that children's lives will be shorter than their parents if this trend continues. With this stated, it is quite apparent that childhood obesity is a serious problem, and something needs to be done about it. Children these days need to eat healthier and be more physically active if we want to turn this trend around.

Golf Ball Water Globe Game

For my birthday, I asked for the Golf Ball Water Globe Game. The object of the game is to get the golf ball onto the tee - but it's not as easy as it sounds! I've been trying to get it on the tee all day long, and I haven't succeeded once! The magnified appearance of the ball inside the glass globe and the effect of the water make it extra tricky! The golf ball inside the globe has the New York Yankees logo on it because they are my favorite baseball team. They only cost about $20 with shipping and handling, so the price is very reasonable! This game can be so frustrating, but it's so hard to put it down! My goal is to get the golf ball on the tee once before spring break is over!

Dave & Buster's

On Tuesday, March 11th, I am going to Dave & Buster's in Pittsburgh for my birthday. A few of my friends and I are going to eat and play games there, and then go to the Waterfront to shop. I've only been to Dave & Buster's once before, and I had so much fun! I act like such a kid in there because I'm so competitive and want to win at everything! I could stay there for hours because there is so much to do. We are going to eat lunch as soon as we get there, so maybe I'll get a free piece of cake since it's my 20th birthday! Also, since we are going on a Tuesday, hopefully it won't be so busy that day!

Samsung Juke

When I got home from spring break, I went over to my friend's house. She showed me the new phone she got - which was the Samsung Juke. At first, it looked like an MP3 player because it was so skinny and small! It was black and teal, but I wasn't very impressed. The screen was too small, and when she opened it up, it was so ackward to hold. I'm not the kind of person to just get a cell phone only because it looks neat. I want a phone thats durable and easy to function. The Juke had so many features on it and it was confusing for me to figure out. I'm sure a lot of people like the new Samsung Juke, but I'm definitely not a fan!

Nintendo Wii

Tomorrow officially begins my spring break as I'll be heading home right after my 2:00 class. I haven't been home since Christmas break, so I'm excited to see my family and friends. One of my friends just bought Nintendo Wii last week, so I'm pretty pumped to play it. I've only played Wii once, and all I remember is being sore the next day! I boxed and played tennis, and I can still remember how bad my shoulders and sides hurt the following day. But, you really do get a good workout if you play continuously. Since I'm so competitive, I won't quit until I win - which isn't always the best trait of mine! But, it's a fun game to play with a few people, so I could definitely see myself investing in a Nintendo Wii in the near future.

Derek Jeter

I was reading on the Yankees website today that they are thinking about moving Derek Jeter to a different position in the playing field. In 2 years, they either want to move him to first base or take over for Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui in the outfield as their contracts expire. This decision is still up in the air, but it definitely makes me sad that Jeter might not be a shortstop in the near future. He's been my favorite player for years, but unfortunately, he is getting older and his stats are lowering. I can't imagine watching the Yankees and not seeing Jeter at shortstop. But, if the Yanks think that moving him in a few years will give them a better chance of winning, I can deal with that. Hopefully, the Yankees captain will step up this year and lead them to a World Series!

Sick

Today, I barely have a voice and feel miserable. Unfortunately, I had to give a short speech in my Public Speaking class today. I felt very uncomfortable standing in front of my peers because not only do I sound like a man, but my voice kept giving out. I went to the Health Center a few days ago, and they said I had flu-like symptoms. They gave me Ibuprofen for my sore throat, along with salt to gargle and cough drops. Being sick is about the last thing I need this week, because I have 7 upcoming tests/quizzes! I have so much studying to do, along with getting my web pages done before spring break! Wish me luck, please!

PE in Schools

In Physical Education classes at my high school, when a student doesn't dress, they have to walk the entire class period. Now, in my opinion, I think that this is a little ridiculous. During my PE classes in high school, there was always at least 2 people who claimed to be sick or forgot their clothes. Therefore, they would just have to walk around the gym or in the hallway. I feel as though they should be instructed to do something more productive. For example, they could either read material about the activity that the class is doing that day, or even watch a video on the skills involved. I say this because the students should be more involved even if they aren't participating with the entire class. Another thing that is so frustrating is that these students don't even walk at a reasonable pace - so it is useless. They are either texting on their phone or watching the class do activities. So, I'm not sure if this happens in all PE classes, but it sure won't happen when I'm teaching in a public school!

Carnegie Science Center

On Tuesday, I am going to the Carnegie Science Center since we do not have class. I've never been there before but I hear it's a really fun place, along with a good educational experience. I've been hearing a lot of talk about the Exhibition with bodies. Some people have told me that you can take a close-up look inside the skeletal, muscular, respiratory, and circulatory systems of preserved human bodies. Now, I don't know about you, but I'm not sure if I can handle looking at that! I have a really weak stomach, but hopefully I can get a few pictures because my family and friends are really interested in what the bodies look like. I'm going with the PEK Honorary Fraternity, so I'd imagine that we will have a lot to talk about when we get back from the Carnegie Science Center.

I-Care House

In Fitness Education last semester, we had to do 2 service learning projects. I chose to go to the I-Care House in New Castle for my one project. At the I Care House, children can range anywhere from 6-14 years of age. These kids are from low-income families and usually have no one at home. A van from SRU picks the children up every Wednesday and we take them to a gym about 5 minutes from the I-Care House. It truly is a rewarding experience because when these kids see us each week, they have big smiles on their faces and are excited for us to be there because we never let them down. Ever since, I've been going to the I-Care House on Wednesdays, and we usually just take a bunch of equipment and let them do whatever they want to do as long as they remain active in the gym. We play and interact with them for about an hour and a half. If any of you can spare two hours of your Wednesday night, I guarantee you it will be well worth your while.

Outdoor Pursuits

Today, in Outdoor Pursuits, our class learned how to tie knots in a rope. I don't know if it's just me, but I have a hard time learning and memorizing all the particular techniques. I think it might be because I've never done anything like this before, and it's so much information to comprehend in such a short time. We also learned how to belay when climbing. This process was a little confusing, but I think with more practice, I will get better at it. Outdoor Pursuits isn't one of my favorite classes only because I am new at everything we learn, and it's kind of overwhelming. Hopefully by the time we go down to the climbing wall at the ARC, I will have all these skills mastered because people's lives will be in my hands!

DDR

In one of my classes today, we were talking about bringing DDR (Dance Dance Revolution) into PE programs. This game is very popular among kids these days. For example, have you ever seen young adults playing DDR in arcades at the mall? They will wait in lines and pay money to be physically active! Its gets your breathing and heart rate up, which is what we want in PE classes. DDR's can be pretty expensive, but if you try hard enough, I'm sure there are plenty of grants out there that could help your school out. I feel as though if DDR's were implemented into PE programs, kids would enjoy being active and it would be promoting physical health and learning.

Podcasts

Over the weekend, I listened to Dr. Leight's podcasts she put on blackboard. In my opinion, hearing the material we went over class for a second time is very beneficial. You can rewind to hear something again, or even pause to take a few notes. After listening to the podcasts, I feel much more confident going into our quiz this week. I think the entire class should take advantage of this opportunity that Dr. Leight has provided us with. Hopefully my quiz results will reflect this great use of technology!

New Activity

Today in Outdoor Pursuits, we did a few trust building activities. One of the activities was called, "Willow in the Wind." This activity involved 9-12 students making a circle, while one student stood in the middle of the circle. The student in the middle would lock their hands together and close their eyes. The student would relax and fall backwards as the students around the circle were the spotters and had to catch the person. The students would then gently push the person in the middle all around the circle until someone said stop. This was a trust building activity because if you were the person in the middle, you were trusting the circle of students to catch and gently push you around the circle. As this was the first time I've ever done this activity, I really enjoyed it and would love to teach it to my students one day.

iPhone

I was searching the Internet the other day, and I came across the iPhone. I didn't know too much about this new phone, so I did some research on it. I was simply amazed by all the different things that this phone was capable of doing! You can create iPhone ringtones from over 500,000 songs on the iTunes Store, display SMS messages as an online chat, and make a phone call by one simple touch of the screen! These are just a few of the many features on the new iPhone. Also, I looked at the price for one, and I was surprised because I thought it would cost a lot more. But, I saw the price had just recently dropped $200. In my opinion, I don't see why anyone would need a phone with as many options as the iPhone has. I'll just stick with my simple Verizon LG, where all I need to do is call and text people!

About Me

Hi there! Since this is my first blog, I will tell you a litte bit about myself. My name is Rachel Means and I'm from Connellsville, PA. I'm currently a sophmore at SRU and I'm minoring in Coaching. I have 2 older brothers, Richie & Ryan, and one cat named Baby. My favorite place is the beach because I love being tan. During the summer, I work at a Country Club as a lifeguard back at home. I played basketball and softball in high school, and I'm a huge New York Yankees fan. As a former shortstop, my favorite player is Derek Jeter and I'm so excited the Yanks are coming to Pittsburgh this summer because I get to see 3 games in a row. Well, I think that gives you a better idea of who I am and what I like to do. I look forward to posting more blogs in the near future!