Background/Purpose: Physical inactivity and childhood obesity are rising in developed and developing countries worldwide (Sisson & Katzmarzky, 2008). Given the importance of motor skill competence (MSC) to physical activity (PA) and the influence of PA on fitness in children (Barnett et al., 2009), it is vital to examine the age and gender differences in MSC so that effective instructional strategies can be implemented to develop physically educated children (NASPE, 2010). The aim of this study was to assess the grade and gender disparities in MSC among elementary school students.
Method: Participants were 327 students (170 boys, 157 girls; 172 4th graders, 155 5th graders) from three urban schools. PE Metrics TM was used to assess students' MSC in overhand throwing, striking, and basketball (NASPE, 2010). A 2 × 2 (Grade × Gender) MANOVA was employed to examine grade and gender differences among the variables.
Analysis/Results: The MANOVA produced significant main effects for grade, Wilks' Lambda = .93, F (3, 321) = 8.25, p <.01, and gender, Wilks' Lambda = .77, F (3, 321) = 31.45, p <.01. Univariate follow-ups revealed that fifth graders had higher levels of overhand throwing, striking, and basketball skills than fourth graders. Additionally, boys had significantly higher overhand throwing, striking, and basketball skills than girls. There were no interactions.
Conclusions: The significant differences in children's MSC suggested that skill improves with age, however it is imperative to reduce the gender differences in MSC. These disparities can be lessened with quality instruction and increased practice in school physical activity programs.