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Lesson 3 - Changing Direction

Body Control & Movement

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Reception

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Fundamental Movement Skills

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40 min

Big Question

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

Cones

4 different coloured cones in corners, remainder scattered for domes and dishes

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, hoops

Key Vocabulary

Change direction

To move from going one way to going another way

Bend your knee

Making your leg smaller by bringing your foot closer to your bottom

Push off

Using your foot to push against the ground to move in a new direction

Small steps

Taking tiny steps instead of big ones to help you stop

Turn your body

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

Uses small steps to stop safely

Bends knee and pushes off to change direction

Maintains control during direction changes

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