THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN DEVELOPING STUDENTS' PHYSICAL LITERACY AND HEALTH

Physical education is an essential component of school education because it contributes not only to students’ physical development but also to their psychological well-being, social interaction, self-regulation, and lifelong health-related behavior. In contemporary education, physical education is increasingly understood as a process of developing physical literacy rather than merely improving fitness or teaching isolated sports techniques. This thesis examines the educational role of physical education in developing students’ physical literacy, motivation for regular physical activity, and responsible attitudes toward health. Particular attention is paid to learner-centered instruction, inclusive participation, age-appropriate physical activities, formative assessment, and the integration of health education into physical education lessons. The paper argues that systematic and pedagogically purposeful physical education can create conditions for students to acquire movement competence, confidence, knowledge, and positive attitudes toward an active lifestyle. It also considers practical approaches that can be applied in school settings, including differentiated tasks, cooperative activities, goal setting, self-assessment, and technology-supported monitoring. The study concludes that the educational value of physical education is strengthened when lessons combine physical activity with reflection, communication, and health literacy. Such an approach supports the development of students as physically active, socially responsible, and self-regulated individuals.