A Conceptual Model of Structured Support in Physical Education

Abstract

Schools implement Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) as a way of meeting students' needs in classrooms. PBIS focuses on tiered instruction. Tiered instruction is a teaching strategy in which the educator implements incremental changes that increase supports based on students' needs—academic or behavioral. Yet, tiered instruction is not implemented on a wide scale in physical education. This article discusses how PBIS creates a positive climate, and how it works well with autonomy-supportive environments. It includes a review of research in physical education using tiered instruction or similar strategies. It presents a conceptual model illustrating the use of PBIS to identify and prioritize needs/supports of those students with the most challenging behaviors, and highlighting aspects of physical education that are uniquely different from the regular classroom.

Keywords:

• positive behavior interventions and supports
• tiered instruction