JAMB Area of Concentration for Physical and Health Education Subject 2027/2028

The JAMB Area of Concentration for Physical and Health Education Subject 2027/2028 shows the major topics students need to study for the examination. Physical and Health Education combines knowledge of the human body, physical activities, sports, fitness, safety, nutrition and healthy living.

The subject is not limited to knowing how different sports are played. You are also expected to understand how the human body works during physical activity, how good health can be maintained, and how environmental and social factors can affect health.

The major areas covered include foundations of Physical and Health Education, human anatomy and physiology, sports and games, food and nutrition, physical fitness, recreation, first aid, sports competitions, adapted Physical Education, personal and community health, diseases, and family life education.

As you study these topics, you should be able to:

• define important Physical and Health Education terms;
• identify parts and systems of the human body;
• explain how body systems support movement and physical activity;
• recognise skills, rules, equipment and officials in selected sports;
• understand fitness and conditioning programmes;
• explain basic nutrition and healthy living practices;
• identify common injuries and first aid measures;
• understand the prevention and control of diseases;
• explain personal, community and environmental health practices;
• compare related concepts and apply them to everyday situations.

Some parts of the subject require direct knowledge of definitions and classifications, while others require you to identify, describe, differentiate and explain concepts.

This guide breaks the JAMB Physical and Health Education topics into clear sections so that you can organise your revision and understand what to learn under each area.

Read also: JAMB PHE Syllabus 2026/2027 Download PDF

What You Should Learn in JAMB Physical and Health Education

JAMB Physical and Health Education covers both physical activity and healthy living. You need to understand how the body functions, how sports and exercise are performed safely, and how individuals and communities can maintain good health.

Under the foundations of Physical and Health Education, you should understand the meaning, nature, scope, objectives and historical development of Physical Education. You should also know the philosophy of important founding figures and the different settings in which Health Education takes place.

Human Anatomy and Physiology requires you to study the major systems of the body and how they relate to movement and health. Important areas include:

• cells, tissues, organs and body systems;
• skeletal and muscular systems;
• nervous system and sense organs;
• circulatory system;
• respiratory system;
• excretory system;
• body types and posture.

For Sports and Games, you should understand the skills, techniques, facilities, equipment, rules and officiating connected with athletics, football, basketball, table tennis and badminton.

You should also study food and nutrition, including food nutrients, balanced diet, diet planning, food hygiene and nutritional deficiencies. The drugs section requires you to understand drug types, proper use, misuse, abuse and their effects on the body.

Physical fitness covers health-related and skill-related fitness, while conditioning includes aerobic, anaerobic, strength and endurance programmes.

Other important areas include recreation, leisure, dance, first aid and safety education. You should know common injuries, basic first aid principles, accident prevention and safety practices at home, school, work and in the community.

You will also study:

• national and international sports competitions;
• adapted Physical Education for people with disabilities and special needs;
• personal and community health;
• environmental health;
• communicable and non-communicable diseases;
• family life and human sexuality education.

As you revise, focus on the actions required by each topic. Be ready to define, identify, describe, compare, differentiate, explain and classify concepts instead of memorising terms without understanding them.

Section A: Foundations and Principles of Physical and Health Education

This section introduces the basic ideas behind Physical Education and Health Education. You should understand their meaning, objectives, development and how they contribute to healthy living.

Meaning, Nature, Scope and Objectives of Physical Education

Physical Education is concerned with learning through physical activities and movement.

You should understand:

• the meaning of Physical Education;
• its nature;
• its scope;
• its objectives.

The subject involves physical activities, fitness, movement skills, sports and other experiences that support physical development and healthy living.

You should be able to explain what Physical Education covers and why it is important.

Philosophy of the Founding Fathers of Physical Education

You should study the ideas and contributions of selected founding figures in Physical Education.

Important names include:

• Hetherington
• Dudley Sargent
• Thomas Wood
• John Dewey

For each person, focus on the main philosophy or idea connected with Physical Education and how such ideas influenced its development.

Do not study the names alone. Connect each person with the contribution or philosophy associated with Physical Education.

History and Development of Physical Education

You should understand how Physical Education developed in different societies and periods.

Important areas include:

• Ancient Greece;
• Sparta;
• Athens;
• Rome;
• pre-colonial Nigeria;
• colonial Nigeria;
• post-colonial Nigeria.

You should be able to trace how physical activities and organised Physical Education changed over time.

Physical Education in Ancient Greece

Ancient Greece played an important role in the development of organised physical activities.

You should study the different approaches associated with Sparta and Athens.

You should also understand the development of ancient Greek festivals connected with physical activities and competition.

These include:

• Isthmian Festival
• Pythian Festival
• Nemian Festival
• Olympian Festival

You should be able to identify these festivals and explain their place in the history of Physical Education.

Physical Education in Rome

You should also study the development of Physical Education in ancient Rome.

The important point is to understand how physical activities formed part of life and training during that period and how Roman practices fit into the wider history of Physical Education.

Development of Physical Education in Nigeria

The history of Physical Education in Nigeria can be studied under three broad periods:

• pre-colonial era;
• colonial era;
• post-colonial era.

You should understand how physical activities were practised during these periods and how organised Physical Education developed over time.

When revising, arrange the periods in order so that you can explain the development clearly.

Health Education

Health Education deals with helping people gain knowledge and develop habits that support good health.

You should understand:

• the meaning of Health Education;
• its philosophy;
• its objectives.

You should also understand the different settings where Health Education can take place.

Settings of Health Education

Health Education may take place in different environments.

These include:

• home-based Health Education;
• school-based Health Education;
• community-based Health Education;
• health facility-based Health Education;
• workplace-based Health Education.

Home-based Health Education takes place within the family or home environment.

School-based Health Education takes place through educational activities in schools.

Community-based Health Education is directed at people within a community.

Health facility-based Health Education takes place in health centres, hospitals and other healthcare settings.

Workplace-based Health Education focuses on health information and practices within places of work.

You should be able to identify these settings and distinguish one from another.

Health Promotion

Health Promotion is another important concept in this section.

You should understand its meaning and be able to differentiate it from Health Education.

Health Education focuses on developing health knowledge and positive health practices through learning.

Health Promotion is broader and is concerned with encouraging and supporting actions that improve health.

For this section, make sure you can define Physical Education and Health Education, trace their development, identify the founding figures, recognise the ancient Greek festivals and explain the different settings of Health Education.

Section B: Human Anatomy and Physiology in Relation to Physical and Health Education

This section focuses on the structure and functions of the human body and how body systems support movement, exercise and general health.

Cells, Tissues, Organs and Systems

A cell is the basic structural and functional unit of the human body.

You should understand the structure and functions of a typical human cell and be able to identify different types of tissues.

Important tissue types include:

• epithelial tissue;
• connective tissue;
• muscle tissue;
• nerve tissue.

You should also understand the relationship between cells, tissues, organs and systems.

Cell Division and Differentiation

Two important forms of cell division are:

• mitosis;
• meiosis.

You should be able to differentiate between them and explain the idea of cell differentiation.

Cell differentiation refers to the development of cells into specialised forms that perform particular functions in the body.

Skeletal System

The skeletal system provides support, protects important organs and assists movement.

You should study:

• axial skeleton;
• appendicular skeleton;
• structure and types of bones;
• structure and types of joints;
• movements permitted at joints.

The axial skeleton forms the central framework of the body, while the appendicular skeleton includes structures connected with the limbs.

You should be able to identify different bones and joints and explain how they contribute to movement.

Bones and Joints

Bones differ in shape and function.

You should understand the major types of bones and be able to identify them within the human skeleton.

A joint is a point where two or more bones meet.

You should know the different types of joints and the movements they permit.

The important skill is to connect each type of joint with an appropriate example and movement.

Muscular System

The muscular system makes body movement possible.

You should be able to identify the major muscles of the body by name and location and state their functions.

You should also understand two important types of muscular contraction:

• isometric contraction;
• isotonic contraction.

In isometric contraction, the muscle develops tension without producing obvious movement at the joint.

In isotonic contraction, the muscle changes length while movement takes place.

You should be able to distinguish between these two types.

Nervous System

The nervous system helps to control and coordinate activities in the body.

The main structures of the central nervous system are:

• brain;
• spinal cord.

You should understand their structures and functions.

You should also know the types of nerves and the difference between voluntary and involuntary actions.

Reflex Action

A reflex action is a quick response to a stimulus.

You should be able to describe reflex action using suitable examples and explain how the nervous system is involved.

Sense Organs

The major sense organs to study are:

• skin, associated with touch;
• nose, associated with smell;
• tongue, associated with taste;
• ear, associated with hearing;
• eye, associated with sight.

You should understand the basic structure and functions of each sense organ.

Circulatory System

The circulatory system transports blood and other materials around the body.

You should study:

• structure and functions of the heart;
• blood vessels;
• composition of blood;
• functions of blood;
• systemic circulation;
• pulmonary circulation.

The major blood vessels include:

• arteries;
• veins;
• capillaries.

You should be able to compare their functions.

You should also be able to draw and label the heart and explain how blood moves through the body.

Systemic and Pulmonary Circulation

Systemic circulation involves the movement of blood between the heart and the rest of the body.

Pulmonary circulation involves the movement of blood between the heart and the lungs.

You should be able to distinguish between these two forms of circulation.

Respiratory System

The respiratory system is involved in breathing and gaseous exchange.

Important structures include:

• nose;
• trachea;
• lungs.

You should understand their structures and functions.

Inspiration and Expiration

The two main phases of breathing are:

• inspiration;
• expiration.

Inspiration involves taking air into the lungs, while expiration involves moving air out of the lungs.

You should be able to explain these processes and also understand tissue and cellular respiration.

Excretory System

The excretory system helps remove waste products from the body.

Important organs and structures include:

• kidneys;
• skin;
• lungs.

You should understand the excretory functions of these organs.

Important waste products include:

• urine;
• sweat;
• carbon dioxide.

You should be able to explain how these waste products are formed and removed.

Somatotypes

A somatotype refers to a general body type.

The three body types to study are:

• endomorph;
• mesomorph;
• ectomorph.

You should be able to describe each type and explain the relationship between body type and performance in physical activities.

Posture

Posture refers to the way the body is held or positioned.

You should understand the meaning and characteristics of correct posture.

Good posture helps maintain proper body alignment during standing, sitting and movement.

Postural Defects

Important postural defects include:

• flatfoot;
• scoliosis;
• kyphosis;
• lordosis.

You should be able to identify and explain each one.

You should also understand possible causes of postural defects, including:

• poor habits;
• accidents;
• heredity;
• disease.

Corrective measures may involve:

• exercise;
• proper nutrition;
• good habits;
• medical intervention.

For this section, focus on understanding how the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory and excretory systems contribute to movement and health. You should also be able to identify body types, explain correct posture and recognise common postural defects.

Section C: Theory and Practice of Sports and Games

This section covers athletics, ball games and racket games. You should understand the skills, techniques, facilities, equipment, rules, regulations and officiating connected with each activity.

Athletics

Athletics is divided mainly into track events and field events.

Track Events

Track events include short-distance, middle-distance and long-distance races.

Short-distance or sprint events include:

• 50 metres;
• 100 metres;
• 200 metres;
• 400 metres;
• hurdles;
• relay races.

You should understand the main starting styles used in sprint races:

• bullet or bunch start;
• medium start;
• elongated start.

For relay races, study visual and non-visual baton takeover and understand the importance of the takeover zone.

You should also know the basic technique involved in clearing hurdles.

Middle-distance races include:

• 800 metres;
• 1,500 metres.

Long-distance events include:

• 3,000 metres;
• 5,000 metres;
• 10,000 metres;
• marathon;
• cross-country.

For middle- and long-distance races, pay attention to the start, stride and finish.

You should also understand the rules, regulations and officiating procedures that apply to track events.

Field Events

Field events are divided into throwing and jumping events.

Throwing Events

The throwing events to study are:

• discus;
• javelin;
• shot put.

For each event, understand:

• facilities and equipment;
• equipment specifications;
• styles and techniques;
• rules and regulations;
• officiating;
• safety measures.

Safety is especially important in throwing events because equipment must be handled and used carefully.

Jumping Events

Important jumping events include:

• high jump;
• long jump;
• pole vault;
• triple jump.

You should understand the facilities and equipment used, the basic techniques involved and the rules governing each event.

Football

Football is one of the ball games covered.

You should study:

• basic football skills;
• facilities and equipment;
• rules and regulations;
• officials and their functions.

Your revision should help you recognise the skills used during play and understand how the game is controlled by its officials.

Basketball

For basketball, concentrate on:

• basic skills;
• facilities and equipment;
• rules and regulations;
• officials and their duties.

You should be able to distinguish basketball rules and equipment from those used in football.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is one of the racket games you need to study.

Important areas include:

• table tennis skills;
• facilities and equipment;
• equipment specifications;
• rules and regulations;
• officials and their functions.

You should be able to identify the equipment used and describe the main skills required during play.

Badminton

For badminton, study:

• basic skills;
• facilities and equipment;
• equipment specifications;
• rules and regulations;
• officials and their functions.

Be able to distinguish badminton from table tennis in terms of skills, equipment, playing facilities and rules.

When revising sports and games, organise each activity under four headings: skills, equipment, rules and officials. For athletics, also give attention to techniques, event classifications and safety measures.

Section D: Food, Nutrition and Drugs

This section covers food nutrients, balanced diet, nutrition, food hygiene and the proper use of drugs. You should understand how food and drugs can affect health, growth and physical performance.

Food and Nutrients

Food provides the body with nutrients needed for growth, energy, repair and healthy body functions.

You should study the main classes of food nutrients, their sources and their importance.

Important areas include:

• classes of food nutrients;
• sources of nutrients;
• functions of nutrients;
• importance of nutrients in the body.

You should be able to identify the source of a nutrient and explain why it is needed.

Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is a diet that contains the different nutrients needed by the body in suitable amounts.

You should understand:

• the meaning of a balanced diet;
• its composition;
• its importance to health.

A person’s dietary needs may differ depending on age, physical activity and other conditions.

Diet Planning for Different Groups

You should understand how dietary needs can vary among different groups of people.

Groups to study include:

• children;
• adolescents;
• athletes;
• pregnant women;
• elderly people.

For example, the dietary requirements of an athlete may differ from those of an elderly person because their levels of physical activity and nutritional needs are different.

You should be able to identify suitable dietary requirements for each group.

Food Preparation, Preservation and Storage

Proper handling of food helps maintain its quality and reduces the risk of contamination.

You should understand:

• food preparation;
• food preservation;
• food storage.

You should also be familiar with suitable methods used to preserve and store food.

Food Hygiene

Food hygiene involves practices that help keep food safe and suitable for consumption.

You should understand the principles of food hygiene and why cleanliness is important during food preparation, handling and storage.

Good food hygiene helps reduce the possibility of food contamination and related health problems.

Nutrition

Nutrition deals with how the body obtains and uses nutrients from food.

You should understand the meaning of nutrition and be able to explain its importance.

Beverages and Their Nutritional Value

You should study the meaning of beverages and their nutritional values.

The important point is to understand that different beverages may provide different nutritional benefits.

Nutritional Deficiencies

A nutritional deficiency occurs when the body does not receive enough of a needed nutrient.

You should be able to identify common nutritional deficiencies and explain suitable remedies.

Your revision should connect each deficiency with the nutritional problem involved rather than memorising names alone.

Importance of Water

Water is an important part of human nutrition.

You should understand its importance to normal body functions and healthy living.

Drugs

A drug is a substance that can affect the functioning of the body.

You should understand the meaning and major types of drugs covered in Physical and Health Education.

These include:

• stimulants;
• narcotics;
• hallucinogens;
• sedatives;
• ergogenic aids.

You should be able to identify these categories and distinguish one from another.

Drug Use, Misuse and Abuse

You should understand the differences between:

• drug use;
• drug misuse;
• drug abuse.

Drug use refers to the proper use of a drug for an intended purpose.

Drug misuse involves using a drug in an inappropriate way.

Drug abuse involves improper use that may cause harm to the individual.

You should be able to differentiate these terms clearly.

Causes and Prevention of Drug Misuse and Abuse

You should understand the possible causes of drug misuse and abuse and the measures that can help prevent them.

Your revision should focus on both the reasons people may misuse drugs and the importance of responsible health behaviour.

Effects of Drug Misuse, Abuse and Self-Medication

Improper drug use can have harmful effects on the body.

You should study the effects of:

• drug misuse;
• drug abuse;
• self-medication.

You should also understand why drugs should be used responsibly and according to proper health guidance.

For this section, focus on the relationship between food, nutrition and health. Be able to explain balanced diet, nutritional needs, food hygiene and deficiencies, and clearly distinguish proper drug use from misuse and abuse.

Section E: Physical Fitness and Conditioning Programmes

This section covers the meaning of physical fitness, its components and the main types of conditioning programmes used to improve physical performance.

Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is the ability of the body to perform physical activities effectively.

You should understand the two broad groups of physical fitness components:

• health-related fitness components;
• performance or skill-related fitness components.

Health-related components are connected with general health and the ability of the body to function efficiently.

Performance or skill-related components are connected with the abilities needed to perform physical activities and sports effectively.

You should be able to identify examples under each group and distinguish health-related fitness from skill-related fitness.

Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise

Regular physical activity and exercise can help improve fitness and support healthy body functioning.

You should understand the benefits of physical activity and be able to explain why regular exercise is important.

Conditioning Programmes

A conditioning programme is an organised form of physical training designed to develop particular aspects of fitness.

The main programmes to study are:

• aerobic training;
• anaerobic training;
• strength training;
• endurance training.

Aerobic Programme

An aerobic programme involves activities performed with sufficient oxygen supply over a period of time.

You should be able to distinguish aerobic training from anaerobic training.

Anaerobic Programme

An anaerobic programme involves activities that rely more on short periods of intense physical effort.

The main requirement is to understand the difference between aerobic and anaerobic programmes.

Strength Training Programme

A strength training programme is designed to improve the ability of muscles to produce force.

You should understand how strength training differs from endurance training.

Endurance Training Programme

An endurance training programme develops the ability to continue physical activity for a longer period without becoming exhausted quickly.

For this section, make sure you can define physical fitness, classify its components and differentiate aerobic, anaerobic, strength and endurance training programmes.

Section F: Recreation, Leisure and Dance

This section covers recreation, leisure, work, rest and dance. You should understand their meanings, importance and differences.

Recreation and Leisure

Recreation refers to activities people take part in for relaxation, enjoyment or refreshment during free time.

Leisure is the free time available after necessary duties have been completed.

You should also understand the meanings of work and rest and be able to differentiate them from recreation and leisure.

Recreation and leisure are important because they can support relaxation, social interaction and healthy use of free time.

Types of Recreational Activities

Recreational activities can be grouped into outdoor and indoor activities.

Outdoor activities include:

• jogging;
• swimming;
• cycling;
• bird watching;
• hiking;
• camping;
• picnicking.

Indoor recreational activities include:

• watching television;
• video games;
• computer games;
• playing musical instruments;
• billiards;
• card games;
• Ayo;
• draught.

You should be able to classify activities correctly as indoor or outdoor recreation.

Recreation and Competitive Sports

Recreational activities are mainly carried out for enjoyment, relaxation or personal satisfaction.

Competitive sports involve organised competition in which participants follow rules and try to achieve a better result than their opponents.

You should be able to explain the difference between recreation and competitive sports.

You should also understand basic safety measures that should be followed during recreational activities.

Dance

Dance involves organised body movements that may be performed for cultural, social or recreational purposes.

You should understand:

• the meaning of dance;
• the importance of dance;
• traditional dances from different parts of Nigeria;
• steps used in traditional dances;
• costumes associated with different dances.

Traditional dances may reflect the culture and practices of different Nigerian communities.

You should be able to identify selected traditional dances and describe their movements and costumes.

For this section, focus on being able to differentiate recreation, leisure, work and rest, classify recreational activities, distinguish recreation from competitive sport and identify important features of Nigerian traditional dances.

Section G: First Aid and Safety Education

This section covers the basic principles of first aid, common injuries, special conditions that may require immediate care, first aid organisations and safety education.

First Aid

First aid is the immediate care given to an injured or suddenly ill person before full medical treatment is available.

You should understand:

• the meaning of first aid;
• aims of first aid;
• principles of first aid;
• qualities of a first aider.

A first aider should remain calm, act carefully and provide suitable help without making the situation worse.

First Aid Box and Its Contents

A first aid box contains basic materials used for immediate care.

You should be able to identify common items found in a first aid box and explain their uses.

The important point is to know which materials are suitable for basic first aid situations.

Common Injuries Requiring First Aid

You should recognise common injuries such as:

• cuts;
• wounds;
• sprains;
• strains;
• dislocations;
• fractures.

A sprain involves injury around a joint, while a strain affects a muscle or related tissue.

A dislocation occurs when bones at a joint are forced out of their normal position.

A fracture is a break or crack in a bone.

You should be able to identify these injuries and understand that they require appropriate first aid attention.

Special Conditions Requiring First Aid

Some conditions may also require immediate first aid.

Important examples include:

• bleeding;
• burns;
• scalds;
• shock;
• poisoning.

You should be able to recognise these conditions and understand the need for prompt and appropriate care.

First Aid Organisations

Important organisations involved in first aid services include:

• St. John Ambulance;
• Red Cross Society.

You should be able to identify these organisations and understand their involvement in first aid and emergency support.

Safety Education

Safety Education teaches people how to recognise hazards and prevent accidents and disasters.

You should understand the meanings of:

• accident;
• disaster.

You should also be able to identify different types of accidents and disasters and explain their possible causes.

Prevention of Accidents and Disasters

Accidents and disasters can sometimes be reduced through proper safety practices.

You should study:

• causes of accidents;
• causes of disasters;
• methods of prevention;
• disaster relief activities.

You should also understand the importance of acting carefully and following safety rules in different environments.

Safety in Different Environments

Safety measures should be practised in places such as:

• home;
• workplace;
• school;
• community.

Each environment may contain different hazards, so you should be able to identify suitable safety measures for each setting.

For this section, focus on being able to define first aid, identify common injuries and emergency conditions, recognise first aid organisations, explain accident and disaster prevention, and describe safety measures in different environments.

Section H: National and International Sports Competitions

This section covers sports competitions organised within Nigeria, institutional games, the All Africa Games and major international sports governing bodies.

National Sports Competitions

National sports competitions may be organised by:

• sports federations and associations;
• corporate organisations.

You should be able to identify examples of competitions organised by these bodies and explain their importance to sports development.

National Sports Festival

The National Sports Festival is an important sporting event in Nigeria.

You should understand its importance and be able to explain how it contributes to the development of sports.

You should also study the organisation and administration of sports competitions in Nigeria.

Important areas include:

• planning competitions;
• organising participants and events;
• administration;
• coordination of officials and sporting activities.

Institutional Games in Nigeria

Different educational institutions organise sporting competitions for their students.

Important institutional games include:

• NUGA;
• NIPOGA;
• NATCEGA;
• NSSF.

You should know the names and roles of these institutional games.

NUGA

NUGA refers to the University Games.

You should understand its role in organising and promoting sporting activities among university students.

NIPOGA

NIPOGA refers to the Polytechnic Games.

You should understand its role in sports competitions involving polytechnic students.

NATCEGA

NATCEGA refers to the Colleges of Education Games.

You should know its role in organising sports among Colleges of Education.

NSSF

NSSF is connected with national school sports competitions.

You should understand its role in promoting sports among school students.

International Sports Competitions

You should also study important sports competitions and governing bodies at the international level.

All Africa Games

The All Africa Games is an important continental sports competition.

You should understand:

• its history;
• its development;
• its aims.

Be able to explain how the competition has developed over time and why it is important to African sports.

International Sports Governing Bodies

Important international sports governing bodies include:

• SCSA
• IOC
• FIFA
• IAAF
• ISSF
• FIBA
• ITTF
• BWF

You should be able to identify these organisations and understand the sports or activities they govern.

You should also study their administrative structures.

For this section, focus on being able to identify national and institutional sports competitions, explain the importance of the National Sports Festival, describe the history and aims of the All Africa Games, and recognise major international sports governing bodies and their structures.

Section I: Corrective and Adapted Physical Education Programme

This section focuses on people with disabilities and special needs, the physical activities that can be adapted for them, the challenges they may face and the use of corrective exercises.

Meaning of Disability and Special Needs

A disability is a condition that may limit a person’s ability to perform certain activities in the same way as others.

You should also understand the meaning of special needs and be able to describe people who may require additional support during physical activities.

The important point is to recognise that Physical Education can be adjusted to suit different abilities.

Types of Disability and Special Needs

You should be able to identify different types of disability and special needs.

Your revision should focus on recognising the condition and understanding how it may affect participation in physical activity.

Adapted Physical Activities

Adapted Physical Education involves modifying physical activities so that people with disabilities or special needs can participate more effectively.

You should be able to identify suitable physical activities for people with different needs.

Adaptation may involve changes in:

• the activity;
• equipment;
• movement;
• level of difficulty;
• method of participation.

The aim is to make physical activity more suitable for the individual.

Social and Emotional Problems

People with disabilities and special needs may experience social and emotional challenges.

You should understand these problems and be able to explain how they may affect participation in physical activities and everyday life.

Important areas to consider include:

• interaction with others;
• participation in group activities;
• emotional adjustment;
• acceptance and support.

Prevention of Disability

You should understand measures that can help prevent some forms of disability.

This area requires you to identify preventive actions and understand the importance of safety, health awareness and appropriate care.

Corrective Exercises

Corrective exercises are physical activities used to help improve certain physical conditions or support rehabilitation.

You should be able to identify corrective exercises that may be used for people with special needs.

These exercises should be connected with the particular condition being addressed.

For this section, focus on being able to define disability, identify types of special needs, recognise suitable adapted activities, explain social and emotional challenges, state preventive measures and identify corrective exercises used in rehabilitation.

Section J: Personal, Community and Environmental Health

This section focuses on personal health practices, community health services, maternal and child health, ageing and the ways people can maintain good health in their surroundings.

Personal Health

Personal health refers to the practices and conditions that help an individual maintain physical well-being.

You should understand:

• the meaning of personal health;
• the importance of personal health.

Good personal health depends on regular care of the body, healthy habits and attention to possible health problems.

Personal Hygiene

Personal hygiene involves keeping the body clean and caring properly for different body parts.

Important areas include the care of:

• teeth;
• mouth;
• hair;
• skin;
• hands;
• nails.

You should be able to explain the proper care of these body parts and why cleanliness is important.

Promotion and Maintenance of Personal Health

Personal health can be promoted and maintained through healthy habits.

Important methods include:

• regular exercise;
• proper nutrition;
• regular medical check-ups.

You should understand how these practices help support good health.

Personal Health Screening

Health screening helps identify certain problems that may need attention.

You should study common eye, ear and dental conditions.

Eye Defects

Important eye defects include:

• myopia;
• hypermetropia;
• astigmatism.

You should be able to identify these defects and understand that they may require correction.

Auditory Defects

Important hearing-related conditions include:

• otitis media;
• partial deafness.

You should understand their effects on hearing and the importance of proper attention to ear health.

Dental Diseases

Important dental conditions include:

• dental caries;
• gingivitis.

You should be able to identify these conditions and understand the importance of proper dental care.

Community Health

Community health focuses on the health needs and services available to people living in a community.

You should understand the different providers of health services.

These include:

• orthodox health services;
• traditional health services;
• bone setters;
• birth attendants.

You should be able to distinguish between orthodox and traditional health services.

Maternal and Child Health

Maternal and child health covers services designed to support mothers and children.

Important areas include:

• antenatal care;
• immunisation;
• oral rehydration therapy;
• breastfeeding;
• safe motherhood.

You should understand the purpose of these services and their importance to family and community health.

Ageing and Death Education

You should also study the characteristics of elderly people and how younger people should relate with them.

Important areas include:

• characteristics of elderly persons;
• appropriate ways of relating with elderly people;
• common causes of death.

This topic helps you understand health and social issues connected with ageing.

For this section, focus on being able to define personal and community health, explain proper hygiene, identify common eye, ear and dental problems, distinguish health service providers and understand maternal, child and elderly care.

Section K: Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases

This section covers the meaning and causes of disease, communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases and environmental health.

Meaning and Causes of Disease

A disease is a condition that affects the normal functioning of the body.

You should understand the meaning of disease and be able to identify different causes.

Communicable Diseases

A communicable disease is a disease that can be transmitted from one person, animal or source to another.

You should understand the main classifications of communicable diseases and examples under each group.

Air-borne and Respiratory Diseases

Examples include:

• measles;
• whooping cough;
• poliomyelitis;
• tuberculosis;
• cerebrospinal meningitis.

You should be able to identify these diseases and understand their prevention and control.

Water and Food-borne Diseases

Examples include:

• dysentery;
• cholera;
• typhoid fever.

These diseases are associated with contaminated food or water.

You should understand the importance of safe water, proper food handling and good sanitation in reducing their spread.

Insect-borne Diseases

Examples include:

• malaria;
• yellow fever;
• trypanosomiasis.

You should be able to identify these diseases and understand that insects can act as carriers.

Worm Infections

Important examples include:

• tapeworm;
• hookworm;
• guinea worm.

You should understand their classification as worm infections and the importance of prevention and control.

Animal-borne Diseases

Examples include:

• rabies;
• leptospirosis.

These are diseases that may be transmitted through animals.

Contact Diseases

Examples include:

• gonorrhoea;
• syphilis;
• ringworm;
• leprosy;
• AIDS.

You should be able to identify these diseases and understand measures used to reduce their transmission.

Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases

Important prevention and control measures include:

• immunisation;
• sterilisation;
• isolation.

You should understand how these measures help reduce the spread of disease.

Non-Communicable Diseases

A non-communicable disease is not transmitted from one person to another in the same way as a communicable disease.

Examples include:

• hypertension;
• sickle cell disease;
• cancer;
• epilepsy;
• ulcer;
• asthma;
• diabetes.

You should be able to identify these diseases and explain suitable prevention and control measures where applicable.

Environmental Health

Environmental health deals with conditions in the surroundings that can affect human health.

Housing

You should understand the characteristics of good housing, including:

• suitable location;
• proper ventilation;
• adequate lighting;
• good sanitation.

You should also understand town-planning issues such as spacing and overcrowding.

Water Supply

Study:

• importance of water supply;
• sources of water;
• methods of water purification.

Clean and safe water is important for personal and community health.

Waste Disposal

You should distinguish between:

• refuse;
• sewage.

You should also understand the methods used to dispose of these forms of waste.

Pollution

Pollution is the contamination of the environment by harmful substances or activities.

Types to study include:

• air pollution;
• water pollution;
• soil pollution;
• noise pollution.

You should understand their prevention and control.

Pest and Vector Control

You should know the difference between a pest and a vector and understand their habits and harmful effects.

You should also be able to explain methods used to prevent and control them.

For this section, organise diseases according to their method of transmission or classification. Also pay attention to environmental factors such as housing, water, waste disposal, pollution, pests and vectors.

Section L: Family Life and Human Sexuality Education

This section covers the family, human sexuality education, reproductive health rights, family planning and some challenges that can affect family life.

Family

A family is a social unit made up of people who are related by blood, marriage, adoption or other recognised family relationships.

You should understand the major types of family.

These include:

• nuclear family;
• extended family.

The nuclear family may include forms such as:

• monogamous family;
• polygamous family;
• single-parent family;
• family by adoption.

You should be able to define the family and explain the different types.

Characteristics of a Happy Family

You should also understand the characteristics of a happy and healthy family.

Important ideas include:

• cooperation;
• respect;
• care;
• understanding;
• responsible behaviour among family members.

The main requirement is to recognise the qualities that can support peaceful and healthy family relationships.

Human Sexuality Education

Human sexuality education deals with knowledge about human development, relationships, responsibilities and reproductive health.

You should understand its meaning and importance.

The aim is to help individuals make informed and responsible decisions concerning personal and family life.

Reproductive Health Rights

Important reproductive health rights include:

• the right to make decisions about the number of children;
• consent to marriage;
• gender equality;
• privacy.

You should understand these rights and be able to explain why they are important in family and social life.

Family Planning

Family planning involves making informed decisions about family size and the spacing of children.

You should understand:

• the meaning of family planning;
• its importance;
• different methods of family planning.

Methods covered include:

• condom;
• pills;
• intrauterine device;
• abstinence.

You should be able to identify these methods and state their advantages and disadvantages at a general educational level.

Importance of Family Planning

Family planning can help families make decisions about the number and spacing of children.

You should be able to explain its importance and understand that different methods have different features.

Challenges Facing Family Life in Nigeria

Some challenges that may affect family life include:

• premarital sex;
• extramarital sex;
• widowhood.

You should understand these issues as social and family-life challenges and be able to explain how they may affect individuals and families.

Agencies Promoting Healthy Family Living

Different groups and institutions can promote healthy family life.

These include:

• schools;
• non-governmental organisations;
• religious organisations;
• homes.

You should understand the roles these groups can play in providing education, guidance and support for healthy family living.

For this section, focus on being able to define the family, explain family types, identify characteristics of a happy family, understand reproductive health rights, explain family planning and recognise challenges and agencies connected with healthy family life.

How to Use the JAMB Physical and Health Education Topics for Revision

Physical and Health Education covers many different areas, so your revision should be organised. Instead of reading everything at once, divide the subject into sections and study each group of topics separately.

Start with the foundational topics before moving to the more detailed areas.

Study Definitions and Differences Carefully

Many questions may require you to define a term or distinguish between related concepts.

Pay attention to differences such as:

• Physical Education and Health Education;
• health education and health promotion;
• mitosis and meiosis;
• axial and appendicular skeleton;
• isometric and isotonic contraction;
• systemic and pulmonary circulation;
• aerobic and anaerobic training;
• strength and endurance training;
• recreation and competitive sport;
• drug use, misuse and abuse;
• communicable and non-communicable diseases;
• pest and vector.

When studying these pairs, write their meanings side by side so that you can see the difference clearly.

Use Diagrams for Anatomy and Physiology

Human Anatomy and Physiology becomes easier when you combine reading with diagrams.

Practise identifying and labelling structures such as:

• the human skeleton;
• major bones and joints;
• major muscles;
• brain and spinal cord;
• sense organs;
• heart;
• respiratory organs;
• kidney.

Do not only memorise labels. Understand the function of each structure and how it contributes to movement or health.

Revise Sports Under Clear Headings

For each sport or event, organise your notes under:

• skills;
• techniques;
• facilities;
• equipment;
• rules;
• officials;
• safety measures.

For athletics, also separate track events from field events.

Track events should be grouped into sprint, middle-distance and long-distance races. Field events should be divided into throwing and jumping events.

This makes it easier to remember where each event belongs.

Connect Nutrition with Health

For food and nutrition, study the classes of nutrients together with their sources and importance.

Also revise:

• balanced diet;
• dietary needs of different groups;
• food hygiene;
• food preservation;
• nutritional deficiencies;
• importance of water.

When revising drugs, make sure you can identify the different types and explain the difference between proper use, misuse and abuse.

Group Fitness Topics Together

For physical fitness, first understand the meaning and components of fitness.

Then compare the four major conditioning programmes:

• aerobic;
• anaerobic;
• strength;
• endurance.

Do not memorise the names alone. Understand what each programme is designed to develop.

Revise First Aid by Injury Type

Group first aid topics according to the type of problem.

For example, study common injuries such as:

• cuts and wounds;
• sprains and strains;
• dislocations;
• fractures.

Then revise special conditions such as bleeding, burns, scalds, shock and poisoning.

Also remember the aims and principles of first aid, qualities of a first aider and organisations involved in first aid services.

Learn Sports Organisations by Category

Sports competitions and organisations can be easier to remember when grouped.

Study national competitions separately from institutional and international competitions.

For institutional games, connect each abbreviation with the type of institution involved.

For international governing bodies, learn the organisation together with the sport or area it governs.

Organise Diseases by Mode of Transmission

Communicable diseases should be grouped according to how they are transmitted.

Use categories such as:

• air-borne or respiratory;
• water and food-borne;
• insect-borne;
• worm infections;
• animal-borne;
• contact diseases.

This approach is easier than studying all the diseases as one long list.

Also revise the main methods of prevention and control.

Use Short Revision Notes

After studying each section, reduce it to a short summary containing:

• key definitions;
• classifications;
• examples;
• differences;
• functions;
• causes;
• prevention and control measures.

These shorter notes will be useful when you need to revise quickly.

The main goal is to understand the topics well enough to define, identify, describe, differentiate, classify and explain them when required.

Recommended Texts for JAMB Physical and Health Education

The following textbooks can support your revision for JAMB Physical and Health Education:

• A. I. Afuekwe, An Introductory Textbook of Physical Education for Secondary Schools and Colleges, Vol. 1.
• A. I. Afuekwe, Health Topics in the New Curriculum of Physical and Health Education, Vol. 1.
• U. C. Nnabueze, Foundation of Health and Physical Education for Schools, Vol. II.

Read also: Full List of JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Physical and Health Education 2027/2028

These books cover important areas such as Physical Education, sports, human anatomy, health education, fitness, nutrition, safety and disease prevention.

You can use them to strengthen topics that require more explanation, especially anatomy and physiology, sports rules, first aid, personal health, environmental health and physical fitness.

Key Points to Remember

• JAMB Physical and Health Education covers Physical Education, Health Education, anatomy, sports, nutrition, fitness, safety and healthy living.
• Know the meaning, nature, scope and objectives of Physical Education.
• Study the contributions of Hetherington, Dudley Sargent, Thomas Wood and John Dewey.
• Understand the development of Physical Education in ancient Greece, Rome and Nigeria.
• Know the meaning, objectives and settings of Health Education.
• Understand the difference between Health Education and Health Promotion.
• Study cells, tissues, organs and systems of the human body.
• Know the difference between mitosis and meiosis.
• Understand the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory and excretory systems.
• Be able to identify bones, joints, muscles and movements at joints.
• Know the difference between isometric and isotonic contractions.
• Understand systemic and pulmonary circulation.
• Study the sense organs and their functions.
• Know the three body types: endomorph, mesomorph and ectomorph.
• Identify postural defects such as flatfoot, scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis.
• Under athletics, distinguish track events from field events.
• Study the skills, facilities, equipment, rules and officiating in football, basketball, table tennis and badminton.
• Know the classes, sources and importance of food nutrients.
• Understand balanced diet, food hygiene and diet planning for different groups.
• Distinguish drug use, misuse and abuse.
• Know the difference between health-related and skill-related physical fitness.
• Understand aerobic, anaerobic, strength and endurance training programmes.
• Distinguish recreation, leisure, work and rest.
• Know the meaning, aims and principles of first aid.
• Recognise common injuries such as cuts, wounds, sprains, strains, dislocations and fractures.
• Study accident prevention and safety at home, school, workplace and community.
• Know important national, institutional and international sports competitions and governing bodies.
• Understand adapted Physical Education and corrective exercises for people with disabilities and special needs.
• Study personal hygiene, health screening and community health services.
• Know the major groups of communicable diseases and their methods of transmission.
• Understand prevention and control measures for communicable and non-communicable diseases.
• Study environmental health topics such as housing, water supply, waste disposal, pollution, pests and vectors.
• Understand family types, characteristics of a happy family, human sexuality education and reproductive health rights.
• Know the meaning and importance of family planning and the challenges that may affect family life.
• During revision, focus on your ability to define, identify, classify, differentiate, describe and explain each topic.

Read also: JAMB Syllabus 2026/2027 All Subjects Download PDF

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The JAMB Area of Concentration for Physical and Health Education Subject 2027/2028 covers a wide range of topics connected with movement, sports, fitness, safety and healthy living.

Your revision should cover the foundations of Physical and Health Education, human anatomy and physiology, sports and games, food and nutrition, physical fitness, recreation, first aid, sports competitions, adapted Physical Education, personal and community health, diseases, environmental health and family life education.

Give special attention to areas that require you to identify, classify, differentiate, describe and explain concepts. For sports topics, learn the skills, equipment, rules and officials. For anatomy, understand the structures and functions of the major body systems. For health topics, focus on prevention, proper habits and the factors that can affect individuals and communities.

Organising your revision section by section will make the subject easier to manage and help you cover the important topics without leaving major areas behind.

If you have any questions about the JAMB Physical and Health Education topics, you can leave a comment. You can also share this guide with other students who may find it useful.