Abstract

This research analyses the images related to the physical activities that appear in physical education textbooks, particularly in the third stage of primary education, and their correspondence to the content blocks of the curriculum. The sample consists of 821 images published by four Spanish publishers based on Spain’s Education Act. A univariate descriptive study was performed using a category system drawn up ad hoc and whose construction process consisted of two pilot tests, two consultations with experts and triangulation with three observers. The variables of the study were type of physical activity, environment, space and level of sport. The results show a clear predominance of the “Motor Skills” and “Games and Sports Activities” content blocks as opposed to the blocks related to body language, health and body awareness. Consequently a traditional view of our area remains prevalent in compulsory schooling, although publishers are beginning to emerge in which the predominant images are not drawn from the traditional model based on sport, competition and the elite.