Lesson 3 - Applying Jumping Skills in Games
Foundation Jumping and Locomotion Through Playful Exploration
•Reception
•Fundamental Movement Skills
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How can we use our jumping skills safely and cleverly in games with friends?
Learning Objectives
- To apply jumping technique in game situations
- To jump safely whilst avoiding collisions with others
- To understand the importance of spatial awareness when jumping
Key Outcomes
- Students will jump using correct technique in game contexts
- Students will demonstrate spatial awareness when jumping around others
- Students will understand why safety and space are important when jumping
Equipment & Resources Required
Keep easily accessible for traffic light activity
Alternative: Coloured bean bags, coloured scarves, or hand signals
Large enough for students to see clearly
Alternative: Coloured bibs, animal pictures, or number cards
Create clear square boundary for alphabet game
Alternative: Rope, chalk lines, or existing playground markings
Key Vocabulary
Pushing off the ground with both feet and landing on both feet
An empty area where we can move safely without bumping others
Coming down safely with bent knees and arms out for balance
The way we choose to move - forwards, backwards, or sideways
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic two-footed jumping on the spot
- Understanding of personal space
- Basic following of simple instructions
Current Skills
- Jumping whilst moving and avoiding others
- Applying jumping in game situations
- Quick response to visual and verbal commands
Next Steps
- Jumping for distance and height
- Complex jumping patterns
- Leading jumping activities
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Safety and spatial awareness must always come before speed or competition
- Two-footed takeoff and landing with bent knees is essential for safe jumping
- Use arms to generate momentum and maintain balance during jumping
- Look ahead and around to find clear spaces before jumping
- Teamwork and cooperation are more important than winning
- Connect jumping skills to real sports and activities children know
- Build confidence through success before adding challenge
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking that jumping hard or fast is always better - emphasise control and technique
- Believing they can't affect others when moving - teach spatial awareness and consideration
- Assuming games are only about winning - highlight fun, learning, and cooperation
- Not understanding why we need rules in games - explain safety and fairness reasons
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries marked, frequent positive feedback and movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for coordination, simpler instructions broken down, larger target areas for crossing
autism spectrum
- Clear, predictable routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured cones and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of spatial layout, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, use visual signals alongside cones, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Modify jumping to stepping or supported movement, adjust distances, provide seated alternatives for observations
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Understanding letters and sequences, counting points and team members, recognising shapes in the game square
Science
Forces in jumping, how muscles work when we jump and land, understanding cause and effect
Geography
Directional language (across, over, through), spatial concepts and position vocabulary
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, following rules, being supportive of others, building confidence
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at corner of square for visibility of all crossing activity, move to centre for demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for proper jumping technique, spatial awareness, and team cooperation
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with rules, showing unsafe behaviour, or appearing excluded
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate jumping technique with exaggerated movements for clarity. Use positive examples from students when possible.
Verbal Cues
- •'Look for spaces!'
- •'Bend those knees!'
- •'Arms up for jumping!'
- •'Work together!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 15m clear space for alphabet game square and movement
Surface Check
Non-slip surface free from debris, suitable for jumping activities
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Cones placed securely to avoid tripping
- •Letter cards clearly visible and not creating hazards
- •Regular checks that boundaries remain clear
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during crossing activities
- •Trips or falls from inappropriate jumping technique
- •Overexertion from exciting game activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear spacing rules established and reinforced
- •Emphasis on safety over speed throughout
- •Progressive build-up from simple to complex activities
- •Regular technique reminders and demonstrations
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all crossing activity
- •Monitor for fatigue or technique breakdown
- •Ensure equal participation and inclusion
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if collision occurs, assess students, provide appropriate first aid, comfort, and support