Our district is requiring writing in all subjects including PE. So my middle schooler had to research and write a paper about volleyball. She also had to write a biography of a mathematician for math class. It's a bit much in my opinion.
At my high school writing is required for most "arts" classes if they want to be counted as college prep classes. Regular PE doesn't count, so no essay required. But when my DD took dance she had to attend three outside performances and write up a review. And for her photography class she had to do a report on a famous photographer. Not necessary for math classes and in science the kids write up labs.
