25 Physical Education Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Physical education teachers are responsible for teaching students about the importance of physical activity and good health. They help students learn the skills they need to stay active and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. In order to become a physical education teacher, you will need to complete a teacher education program. You will also need to pass a licensing exam.

In order to help you prepare for your interview, we have put together a list of common physical education teacher interview questions. We have also included sample answers to help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you certified to teach physical education?

This question is a basic background check to ensure you are qualified for the position. If you’re not certified, explain what steps you’ve taken to become certified and when you plan to complete them.

Example: “Yes, I am certified to teach physical education. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Health from the University of California, Los Angeles. In addition, I hold a teaching certification from the state of California that allows me to teach physical education at all grade levels.

I also have extensive experience teaching physical education in both public and private schools. During my time as a physical education teacher, I’ve developed an understanding of how to create engaging lessons for students of all ages. My goal is always to make sure that every student has a positive learning experience while developing their physical skills.

Furthermore, I’m committed to staying up-to-date on best practices in physical education. I regularly attend professional development conferences and read industry publications to stay informed about new trends in physical education instruction. This helps me ensure that my classes are relevant and effective.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for a physical education teacher to have?

This question can help interviewers determine if you have the skills and abilities to be successful in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest skills that relate to physical education teaching.

Example: “Physical education teachers need to have a wide range of skills in order to be successful. First and foremost, they must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Being able to effectively communicate with students, parents, and other staff members is essential for any physical education teacher.

In addition, physical education teachers should possess strong organizational skills. They must be able to plan and execute lessons that are engaging and effective. This includes creating lesson plans, setting up activities, and monitoring student progress.

Lastly, physical education teachers must also have the ability to motivate their students. It’s important that they can encourage their students to stay active and engaged in physical activity. By providing positive reinforcement and support, physical education teachers can help foster an environment where students feel comfortable and motivated to reach their goals.”

3. How do you plan and organize your physical education classes to maximize student engagement and learning?

This question can help interviewers understand how you plan and organize your classes to ensure students are actively engaged in their learning. Use examples from previous experiences to explain the steps you take to create engaging physical education lessons that encourage student participation and critical thinking skills.

Example: “I plan and organize my physical education classes to maximize student engagement and learning by creating a variety of activities that are tailored to the needs of each individual student. I believe in providing an environment where students can learn, grow, and develop their skills while having fun. To do this, I start by assessing the skill level of each student and then create activities that challenge them at their own level.

I also use a variety of teaching methods to ensure that all students have access to the material. For example, I might incorporate visual aids, hands-on activities, or group work into my lessons. This helps keep everyone engaged and encourages collaboration among classmates. Finally, I make sure to provide feedback throughout the lesson so that students know how they’re doing and what areas need improvement.”

4. What is your philosophy about the role of physical education in the school curriculum?

This question can help interviewers understand your philosophy about physical education and how you plan to use it in the classroom. When answering this question, consider what is important to you about teaching physical education and how you would like students to feel when they leave class.

Example: “My philosophy about the role of physical education in the school curriculum is that it should be an essential part of every student’s learning experience. Physical education provides students with the opportunity to develop their physical skills, as well as gain knowledge and understanding of how to lead a healthy lifestyle. It also helps to foster social interaction and team building among students.

I believe that physical education should be used to promote physical fitness, health, and wellness for all students. I strive to create engaging lessons that are tailored to each student’s individual needs and abilities. My goal is to ensure that my students have the tools they need to make informed decisions about their own health and wellbeing. I also strive to provide meaningful experiences that will help them build self-confidence and resilience.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to mediate a conflict between two students in your class.

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your conflict resolution skills. Use examples from your experience as a physical education teacher that highlight your ability to resolve conflicts and keep students safe while maintaining order in the classroom.

Example: “I recently had to mediate a conflict between two students in my Physical Education class. The students were arguing over who was going to be the team captain for an upcoming game. I could tell that both of them wanted to take on the role, but neither one was willing to compromise.

To resolve the situation, I sat down with the two students and asked each of them why they thought they should be the team captain. After listening to their points, I suggested that they alternate being the team captain every other game. This way, both students would get a chance to lead the team and no one felt left out.

The students agreed to this solution and ended up becoming good friends after that. It was great to see how they worked together as a team and respected each other’s opinions. This experience taught me the importance of communication and collaboration when it comes to resolving conflicts.”

6. If a student was struggling to meet the physical fitness requirements for your class, what would you do to help them?

This question can help interviewers understand how you might handle a specific situation in the classroom. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a time when you helped a student overcome an obstacle and achieve success.

Example: “If a student was struggling to meet the physical fitness requirements for my class, I would first assess their current level of fitness and identify any areas where they may need extra help. Then, I would create an individualized plan that takes into account their strengths and weaknesses, as well as their goals. This could include providing them with additional resources such as instructional videos or books, offering one-on-one coaching sessions, or recommending activities outside of class that can help them reach their goals.

I also believe in creating a supportive environment in my classes so that all students feel comfortable pushing themselves and striving for success. I would encourage the student to set realistic goals and celebrate each milestone along the way. Finally, I would provide positive reinforcement and feedback to ensure that the student is motivated to keep working hard and make progress towards their goals.”

7. What would you do if a parent complained that their child was too tired to participate in your class after a long day at school?

Parents may sometimes have concerns about their child’s experience in physical education class. This question can help an interviewer understand how you would respond to a parent who has concerns and what your overall philosophy is when it comes to the well-being of students.

Example: “If a parent complained that their child was too tired to participate in my class after a long day at school, I would first take the time to listen and understand the situation. It is important to be understanding of any issues or concerns parents may have about their children’s wellbeing. After listening to the parent’s concern, I would then explain the importance of physical activity for both physical and mental health. I would also offer alternative activities that are less strenuous but still provide an opportunity for the student to stay active. Finally, I would ensure that the student has access to resources such as water and snacks if they need them during the lesson. By taking these steps, I believe I can create an environment where students feel comfortable participating in physical education while also ensuring their safety and wellbeing.”

8. How well do you handle stress while teaching?

Physical education teachers often have to handle stress while teaching. Interviewers ask this question to see if you can manage stress in the classroom and keep your students safe. In your answer, explain how you stay calm when things get hectic. Share a specific example of a time when you had to deal with a stressful situation during class.

Example: “I understand that teaching can be a stressful job, but I have developed strategies to manage stress while in the classroom. First and foremost, I prioritize my tasks so that I am able to focus on what is most important first. This helps me stay organized and efficient, which reduces my overall stress level.

In addition, I make sure to take regular breaks throughout the day to give myself time to reset and refocus. Taking these breaks allows me to come back to the classroom with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. Finally, I always try to maintain an optimistic outlook and positive attitude, even when things get difficult. This helps me remain calm and focused, enabling me to better handle any challenges that may arise.”

9. Do you have any creative ideas for teaching complex concepts like anatomy and physiology through physical activity?

This question can help interviewers understand your creativity and problem-solving skills. Use examples from previous teaching experiences to highlight how you approach complex concepts in physical education classes.

Example: “Absolutely! I have a few creative ideas for teaching complex concepts like anatomy and physiology through physical activity. First, I believe in using visual aids to help students understand the material better. For example, I often use diagrams of the human body or anatomical models to illustrate different parts of the body and how they work together. Secondly, I think it’s important to make learning fun by incorporating games into the lesson plan. For instance, I recently created a game where students had to identify various muscles on their own bodies while performing certain movements. Finally, I also like to incorporate technology into my lessons whenever possible. This can include anything from virtual reality simulations to interactive videos that allow students to explore anatomy and physiology in an engaging way.”

10. When planning a lesson, how do you decide which activities to include?

This question can help interviewers understand how you plan lessons and what factors influence your decisions. Use examples from previous experiences to explain the process of planning a lesson, including how you decide which activities to include in each class.

Example: “When planning a lesson, I always start by considering the needs of my students. I take into account their age, physical abilities, and interests. From there, I create activities that will challenge them while also allowing them to have fun. I like to mix up different types of activities such as team sports, individual sports, and fitness exercises. This allows me to provide variety and keep my students engaged.

I also make sure to include activities that focus on developing important skills such as coordination, balance, agility, and strength. Finally, I ensure that all activities are safe and appropriate for the age group. Safety is always my top priority when creating lessons.”

11. We want our physical education teachers to be able to work well with other teachers. Describe a time when you collaborated with another teacher to improve a class.

This question can help interviewers understand how you work with others and your ability to collaborate. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of when you worked with another teacher to improve a class or implement new teaching methods.

Example: “I have always been a strong believer in collaboration between teachers. In my previous role as a Physical Education Teacher, I worked closely with the school’s Maths teacher to create an innovative and engaging class for our students. We combined physical activities with mathematical concepts to give the students a unique learning experience.

We started by discussing what we wanted to achieve from the lesson and then brainstormed ideas on how to make it happen. We both had different strengths that we could bring to the table, so we were able to come up with some really creative solutions. After coming up with the plan, we tested it out in the classroom and made adjustments until we got it just right. The students loved it and they learned a lot too!

This experience showed me that when two teachers work together, great things can be achieved. It also taught me the importance of communication and compromise when working with others. I am confident that if given the opportunity, I would be able to collaborate effectively with other teachers at this new job.”

12. Describe your process for evaluating your own performance as a physical education teacher.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your self-evaluation skills and how you use them to improve your teaching. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific process or strategy that you use to evaluate yourself as a teacher.

Example: “As a physical education teacher, I believe it is important to continually evaluate my own performance in order to ensure that I am providing the best possible learning experience for my students. To do this, I take time at the end of each lesson or unit to reflect on what went well and what could be improved upon.

I also use feedback from my students as an important part of my evaluation process. After each lesson, I ask my students to provide me with constructive criticism about their experience. This helps me identify areas where I can make adjustments and improve my teaching methods.

In addition, I regularly review my lesson plans and objectives to ensure they are meeting the needs of my students. I strive to create engaging lessons that challenge my students while still being accessible to all levels. Finally, I set goals for myself throughout the year and track my progress towards those goals. This allows me to measure how successful I have been in achieving my desired outcomes.”

13. What makes a good physical education lesson?

This question can help interviewers understand your teaching style and how you plan lessons. You can answer this question by describing a specific lesson that was successful in the past, or you can describe what makes a good physical education lesson in general.

Example: “A good physical education lesson should be engaging, educational, and fun for students. It should also meet the needs of all learners in the class.

To ensure that a lesson is engaging, I like to start with an activity or game that will capture the attention of my students. This could be something as simple as a warm-up game or a more complex team sport. Once I have their attention, I can then introduce the learning objectives for the day.

I believe it’s important to provide instruction on how to do each activity safely and effectively. I always make sure to explain proper form and technique so that everyone is able to participate without getting injured.

In addition to teaching safety, I think it’s important to focus on developing skills such as coordination, balance, agility, strength, and endurance. By incorporating drills and exercises into the lesson plan, I am able to help my students develop these skills while having fun at the same time.”

14. Which sports do you have the most experience teaching?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience teaching physical education. They want to know which sports you have taught before and how much experience you have with the specific sport they’re looking for a teacher for. When answering this question, list the sports you’ve had the most experience teaching and explain why you enjoy them.

Example: “I have extensive experience teaching a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track & field. I am also well-versed in the fundamentals of physical education, such as proper form and technique for each sport.

My primary focus has been on basketball, which I have taught at both the high school and college levels. I have developed successful strategies to help my students improve their skills and understand the game better. I have also coached teams that have won multiple championships.

In addition to basketball, I have also taught soccer and volleyball. My approach to these sports is to emphasize teamwork and communication while developing individual skills. I believe this helps create a strong team dynamic and encourages my players to strive for excellence.”

15. What do you think is the most important thing for students to learn through physical education?

This question can help interviewers understand your philosophy on physical education and how you plan to teach students. It’s important to show that you value the importance of physical education in a student’s life, especially if you’re applying for a position at a school with limited resources.

Example: “I believe the most important thing for students to learn through physical education is how to stay active and healthy. Physical activity has a wide range of benefits, from improved physical health to increased mental focus and better academic performance. Through physical education, I strive to teach my students the importance of regular exercise and its positive effects on overall wellbeing.

In addition to teaching them about the importance of physical activity, I also emphasize the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship. Working together in physical activities helps foster collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills that can be applied to other areas of life. It’s also important to me that my students understand the value of good sportsmanship and respect for their peers.”

16. How often should students exercise each week?

Physical education teachers must know how to plan and implement physical activity for their students. Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have a specific approach to planning exercise in your classroom. In your answer, explain the steps you take when creating an exercise schedule for your class.

Example: “I believe that students should exercise at least three times a week. Exercise is an important part of physical education and it helps to keep the body healthy, strong, and fit. It also helps to improve coordination, balance, and agility.

When I teach physical education classes, I like to incorporate different types of exercises into my lessons such as running, jumping, stretching, and strength training. This way, students can get a full-body workout and develop their skills in all areas. Depending on the age group, I may adjust the intensity or duration of the exercises accordingly.”

17. There is a bug in the physical education room and you don’t have a replacement yet. What do you do?

This question is a great way to see how you handle unexpected situations. It’s important for teachers to be able to think on their feet and make quick decisions that are in the best interest of students.

Example: “If I encountered a bug in the physical education room, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of all students. I would immediately move any students away from the area and make sure that no one is at risk of coming into contact with the bug.

Once everyone was safe, I would assess the situation and determine if there were any immediate solutions. If not, I would contact the appropriate personnel for assistance and work with them to find a replacement as soon as possible. In the meantime, I would use alternative activities or exercises to keep the students engaged while we waited for a solution.”

18. How do you ensure that your physical education classes are inclusive and accessible to all students?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you ensure that all students feel welcome in your physical education classes. Use examples from past experiences where you’ve helped students with disabilities or other special needs participate in physical education activities.

Example: “I believe that physical education classes should be accessible and inclusive to all students, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. To ensure this happens in my classroom, I focus on creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable participating. This includes providing modifications for activities when needed, as well as ensuring that all equipment is available for use by any student.

I also strive to create a positive atmosphere in my class by encouraging collaboration among students and emphasizing the importance of teamwork. By fostering a sense of community within my classroom, I can help to make sure that everyone feels welcome and included. Finally, I work hard to ensure that my curriculum is diverse and engaging so that it appeals to all types of learners.”

19. What strategies have you used in the past to motivate reluctant or disruptive students in a physical education class?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you handle challenging students. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific strategy or two that worked well for you in the past and why they were effective.

Example: In my last physical education class, I had a student who was disruptive during class. I noticed he would often get distracted by other students’ conversations and would sometimes even start talking himself. To help him focus better, I started giving him small tasks throughout the day like handing out equipment or collecting papers from his classmates. This helped him stay focused on his own work while also helping me keep track of the rest of the class.

Example: “When it comes to motivating reluctant or disruptive students in a physical education class, I believe that positive reinforcement is the key. In my experience, providing rewards and recognition for good behavior has been an effective way of encouraging students to stay on task and be more engaged in their learning. For example, I have implemented a system where students who demonstrate excellent effort are given tokens which can be exchanged for small prizes at the end of each session. This encourages them to remain focused and motivated throughout the lesson.

In addition, I also make sure to create a safe and supportive environment in my classes. By creating an atmosphere of respect and understanding, I am able to foster positive relationships with my students and help them feel comfortable enough to express themselves without fear of judgement. Finally, I always try to keep things fun and engaging by introducing new activities and games into the curriculum. This helps to ensure that all students are actively participating and having a good time while learning.”

20. Describe any special programs or initiatives you’ve implemented as a physical education teacher.

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are a creative and innovative educator. You can describe any unique programs or initiatives you’ve created in your previous role, such as:

A fitness challenge for students An after-school sports program A nutrition education class

Example: “As a physical education teacher, I have implemented several special programs and initiatives to promote health and wellness in my students. One of the most successful was an after-school program that focused on developing healthy habits through physical activity. The program included activities such as running, yoga, and strength training, which allowed students to explore different types of exercise while learning about nutrition and how it affects their overall health.

I also created a student-led fitness club that met once a week during lunchtime. This gave students the opportunity to lead each other in fun and engaging exercises, while also providing them with a safe space to talk about any issues they were facing related to physical health and wellbeing. Finally, I organized an annual field day for all grade levels that encouraged friendly competition among peers and provided a great way for students to stay active throughout the year.”

21. Do you have experience teaching adapted physical education for students with disabilities?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience with adapting physical education lessons for students with disabilities. Adapting physical education lessons to meet the needs of all students is an important part of being a physical education teacher, and this question can help employers see how you’ve handled these situations in the past.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience teaching adapted physical education for students with disabilities. During my time as a Physical Education Teacher, I had the opportunity to work with a variety of students with different needs and abilities. I was able to create individualized lesson plans that catered to each student’s unique needs and interests. I also worked closely with parents and other professionals to ensure that all students were receiving the best possible instruction. My goal was always to make sure that every student felt included and could participate in physical activities. I am confident that this same approach would be successful in any new position.”

22. Are there any health-related topics you would like to cover in your physical education classes?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and philosophy. They want to know if you plan to cover topics like drug use, bullying or other sensitive subjects in your classes. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific health-related topic that you would like to teach students about.

Example: “I believe it’s important for students to understand the importance of good nutrition and exercise at an early age. I would love to teach my physical education classes about proper nutrition and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I also think it’s vital for students to learn about the dangers of drug use and abuse. I would like to incorporate lessons on substance abuse into my curriculum.”

Example: “Yes, absolutely! I believe that physical education classes should cover a variety of health-related topics. For example, I would like to discuss the importance of nutrition and how it affects our bodies. I also think it is important to talk about the benefits of regular exercise and how it can help us stay healthy. Finally, I would like to teach students about the dangers of smoking and other unhealthy habits.

I have experience teaching these topics in my previous positions as a Physical Education Teacher, and I am confident that I could bring this knowledge to your school. My goal is to provide students with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.”

23. In what ways do you try to integrate technology into physical education lessons?

Technology is an important part of today’s world, and schools are increasingly integrating technology into their curriculum. A physical education teacher should be able to use technology in a variety of ways to enhance students’ learning experiences. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific examples of how you’ve used technology in the past.

Example: “I believe that technology has many valuable uses in the classroom. In my previous position, I integrated technology into all aspects of our physical education curriculum. For example, we used online resources to learn about different types of sports equipment and how they work. We also used video games as a way to practice motor skills and develop hand-eye coordination.”

Example: “I believe that technology can be a great tool to enhance physical education lessons. I strive to incorporate technology in meaningful ways that will engage students and help them learn more effectively. For example, I use iPads to create interactive activities for my students. This allows them to explore different concepts related to physical education such as anatomy or biomechanics in an engaging way. I also like to use online resources to supplement my lessons. This could include videos of professional athletes demonstrating proper technique or articles about the latest research on exercise science. Finally, I have used apps to track student progress and provide feedback on their performance. All of these tools help me to create dynamic and effective physical education lessons that are tailored to each student’s needs.”

24. What safety protocols do you follow while teaching physical education?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of safety protocols and how you apply them in the classroom. Use examples from your experience as a physical education teacher that show you understand the importance of following safety protocols and can implement them effectively.

Example: “Safety is my top priority when teaching physical education. I always make sure to create a safe environment for all of my students by following the necessary protocols and procedures. I start off each class with a safety briefing, where I review any potential hazards in the area and remind students of proper form and technique for each activity. I also ensure that all equipment is properly maintained and inspected before use. In addition, I am constantly monitoring student behavior and intervening if needed to prevent injuries or unsafe situations. Finally, I provide first aid training to all staff members so they are prepared in case of an emergency.”

25. How do you encourage student participation in physical activity outside of school?

This question can help interviewers understand your approach to encouraging students to be physically active outside of school. You may include examples from your previous experience, such as how you encouraged students to join a sports team or organized after-school activities.

Example: “I believe that encouraging student participation in physical activity outside of school is essential to their overall health and wellbeing. To do this, I focus on creating a positive learning environment in my classes where students feel comfortable trying new activities and taking risks. I also make sure to provide clear instructions and demonstrate the activities myself so that students can understand what they are doing and why it’s important. Finally, I emphasize the importance of regular exercise by providing resources such as fitness trackers or apps that help them stay motivated and monitor their progress. By doing these things, I hope to inspire my students to take up physical activity outside of school and maintain an active lifestyle.”