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Vertical File Rationale

Context

The Vertical File can be used in any grade kindergarten through sixth grade. The Vertical File was created at Appalachian State University under the advisement of Julie Adams, a Health Education instructor.  I completed the Vertical File as a requirement for HED 3645, Health Education in Elementary School. 

The purpose of the Vertical File was to collect and organize resource materials in Health Education.  The Grow a Healthy Mind and Body Vertical File contains files with a Health Issues Related to Children forms, lesson plans, and two pamphlets related to each health issue.

Impact

The Grow a Healthy Mind and Body Vertical File is a unique method to inform teachers, students, and parents about major health issues in children.  The vertical file allows students to explore educational and National Health Organizations’ internet sites, such as the American Heart Association, about particular health issues that effect children and adults in America.  The Vertical File also provides lesson plans for the teacher to address health issues in a fun and informative manner that engages students to learn and improve their health.  Posters and pamphlets are included in the Vertical File for certain health issues such as alcohol and alcoholism.  The Vertical File provides information for major health issues in children.

Alignment

The Vertical File aligns with the following DPI program standard:

Standard 5: Elementary Teachers have an understanding of the major concepts of healthful living.

*     Indicator 2: The Grow a Healthy Mind and Body Vertical File addresses the major health issues related to children such as obesity, asthma, alcohol and alcoholism, head lice and diabetes.  The Vertical File was designed to use in a classroom to help inform teachers, students, and parents about major health issues and work towards improving children’s health.