Years ago, when physical education was first introduced, girls
and boys were always separated into different groups. Today,
most sports and activities are co-ed, up to a certain grade. One
factor that influenced this change was a federal law called
Title IX. Passed in 1972, Title IX sought to end sex
discrimination in American schools. However, its focus was more
that equal opportunities be provided for boys and girls, not
that they must always be on teams together. There is still much
discussion, regarding when or if boys and girls should split
into separate groups for certain activities. Policies will vary
by school district. In the primary grades, both boys and girls
usually participate in gymnastics, tumbling, kickball, and other
individual sports. They often play softball together, too. By
the intermediate grades, four through six, team sports are
emphasized; at this point, girls and boys may be split into
different classes. Unfortunately, these programs may not be the
same. Other schools separate boys a