The word model has many different meanings, with several that apply to how a teacher might choose to instruct physical education. Instructional models also serve this same purpose for teachers by allowing them to better understand model’s components and features before implementing the full version with students. Context plays an important role in the design and implementation of all models, whether they are models for teaching or blueprints for a building. Physical education teachers should clearly understand the “big idea” behind each model they consider using in their classes. Students are not passive participants in learning. They play a key role in the selection, implementation, and success of an instructional model. Developmental readiness refers to a student’s ability to understand and follow directions, behave safely and responsibly, and have a reasonable chance to succeed at learning tasks. A valid model is one that has been shown to be effective in promoting certain standards and types of learning in physical education.