A Lesson on Terms - Los Angeles Times

A Lesson on Terms - Los Angeles Times

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It is refreshing to see an article covering physical education in the 1990s instead of having to rely on historical stereotypes which tend to cloud our vision and images of school physical


education programs (“School Gym Club Works Out Well,” Nov. 3). At a time in history when we know that the No. 1 killer, cardiovascular disease, is preventable through exercise, nutrition and


healthy habits, it is encouraging that the public and press are beginning to recognize the many contributions of physical education. However, I must correct the references to “gym class”


and “gym teacher.” A gym is a place where many physical activities take place, however it is not a subject area. The name of the class is “physical education” and the teachers are “physical


educators” or “physical education teachers.” To use the term _ gym teacher _ or _ class _ is condescending to the very group that makes possible the wonderful programs described in the


article. BONNIE MOHNSEN, Ph.D. Cerritos MORE TO READ