Lesson 3 - Changing Direction
Body Control & Movement
•Reception
•Fundamental Movement Skills
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How can we move safely and quickly in different directions without bumping into others?
Learning Objectives
- To develop the ability to change direction quickly and safely
- To improve spatial awareness when moving around others
- To demonstrate good control and coordination in movement activities
Key Outcomes
- Students will be able to change direction using proper technique
- Students will demonstrate safe movement in shared spaces
- Students will show improved control when stopping and starting
Equipment & Resources Required
4 different coloured cones in corners, remainder scattered for domes and dishes
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, hoops
Key Vocabulary
To move from going one way to going another way
Making your leg smaller by bringing your foot closer to your bottom
Using your foot to push against the ground to move in a new direction
Taking tiny steps instead of big ones to help you stop
Moving your whole body to face a new way
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running and walking movements
- Understanding of personal space
- Following simple movement instructions
Current Skills
- Changing direction using proper technique
- Safe movement in shared spaces
- Quick stopping and starting movements
Next Steps
- Combining direction changes with ball skills
- Direction changes in game situations
- More complex movement patterns
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Use small steps to slow down and maintain control when stopping
- Bend your knee and push off with your foot to change direction efficiently
- Turn your whole body to face the new direction you want to travel
- Keep your eyes up to see others and find safe spaces to move through
- Practice good sportsmanship by congratulating others regardless of game results
Common Misconceptions
- Children thinking they need to stop completely before changing direction - teach gradual slowing with small steps
- Students only turning their head instead of whole body - emphasise full body rotation
- Believing faster movement is always better - stress control and safety over speed
- Thinking rules are just restrictions - help understand rules keep everyone safe and make games fair
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries, frequent positive reinforcement, movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Break down technique into smaller steps, use physical guidance, allow extra practice time, celebrate effort
autism spectrum
- Clear routines and expectations, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured cones, verbal descriptions of space and movements, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals for stop/start, clear demonstrations, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Adapt movements to wheelchair or reduced mobility, focus on upper body direction changes, modified game rules
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following instructions, new vocabulary (bend, push off, direction), describing movements
Maths
Counting cones in teams, understanding directions (left, right, forward, backward), spatial reasoning
Science
Forces and motion in direction changes, understanding how our bodies move and balance
PSHE
Teamwork, fair play, managing emotions when winning or losing, celebrating others' success
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around the outside of the activity area to observe all students and provide encouragement
Observation Focus
Watch for proper technique application, spatial awareness, and safe movement around others
Intervention Points
Step in when students forget technique, show unsafe movement, or need encouragement with sportsmanship
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate techniques slowly first, then at normal speed. Use exaggerated movements to help students see the key points clearly.
Verbal Cues
- •'Small steps to slow down!'
- •'Bend that knee!'
- •'Push off and turn your body!'
- •'Find the gaps!'
- •'Well done everyone!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large indoor space or outdoor area minimum 15m x 20m
Surface Check
Dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check cones for cracks or sharp edges
- •Ensure cones are placed with adequate spacing
- •Remove any damaged equipment immediately
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during movement
- •Falls due to quick direction changes
- •Overexertion during active games
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise controlled movement and awareness of others
- •Teach proper stopping and direction change technique
- •Monitor spacing and reduce area if overcrowded
- •Regular breaks and hydration reminders
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear sight lines to all students
- •Move around perimeter during activities
- •Pay extra attention during game situations
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess student, apply appropriate first aid, alert school office if necessary