Lesson 1 - Multi-Directional Speed
Foundational Movement Skills
•Reception
•Fundamental Movement Skills
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How can we move our bodies quickly and safely in different directions?
Learning Objectives
- To develop the ability to move forwards, backwards and sideways at speed
- To improve speed and agility through purposeful practice
- To demonstrate control when changing direction quickly
Key Outcomes
- Students will be able to move confidently in three different directions
- Students will show improved speed over short distances
- Students will demonstrate safe direction changes during games
Equipment & Resources Required
Spread around activity area, some upright, some inverted
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, hoops
Initially placed on cones for Activity 2
Alternative: Bean bags, soft toys
Positioned at appropriate distance from cone stations
Alternative: Mats, designated floor spaces
For timing activities and games
Alternative: Phone timer, countdown app
Key Vocabulary
Moving in the direction you are facing
Moving in the opposite direction to where you are facing
Moving to the left or right side
How fast you can move from one place to another
The ability to change direction quickly
Moving sideways by stepping with one foot then bringing the other to meet it
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic walking and running skills
- Following simple instructions
- Awareness of personal space
Current Skills
- Multi-directional movement
- Speed development
- Direction changes
- Cooperative play
Next Steps
- More complex agility patterns
- Competitive speed games
- Sport-specific movements
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always demonstrate movements slowly before asking for speed
- Emphasise looking in direction of travel, especially when moving backwards
- Build up speed gradually - safety before speed
- Use positive reinforcement to build confidence in all movement directions
- Focus on effort and improvement rather than absolute performance
- Encourage children to help and support their teammates
- Make clear connections between lesson skills and everyday activities
Common Misconceptions
- Faster is always better - emphasise control and safety first
- Only running forward matters - show value of all directional movements
- Individual performance is most important - highlight teamwork benefits
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear physical boundaries, frequent positive reinforcement
dyspraxia
- Simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time, verbal cues for technique
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, consistent routines, quiet areas available if needed
visual impairment
- Use verbal cues for direction changes, provide tactile markers for boundaries, assign sighted buddy
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals for direction changes, clear gestures for instructions, written activity cards
physical disability
- Adapted movements at seated or supported level, modified distances, alternative roles in team games
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting cone turns, timing activities, comparing speeds between different movements
Science
Understanding how different body parts work together for movement, forces needed for direction changes
Geography
Directional language (forwards, backwards, sideways), spatial awareness and positioning
PSHE
Teamwork, taking turns, supporting others, celebrating different abilities and efforts
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position during demonstrations, circulate during activities to observe all children
Observation Focus
Movement quality, spatial awareness, cooperation, and sustained effort
Intervention Points
Step in when children struggling with technique, safety concerns, or need encouragement
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate movements slowly first, then at appropriate speed. Use clear, exaggerated movements that all children can see
Verbal Cues
- •'Light, quick feet!'
- •'Look where you're going!'
- •'Pump those arms!'
- •'Great teamwork!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 15m clear space, suitable for running in multiple directions
Surface Check
Even, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Cones checked for cracks or sharp edges
- •Balls appropriate size for Reception age group
- •Equipment positioned away from walls and boundaries
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during direction changes
- •Falls when moving backwards
- •Trips over equipment
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for all activities
- •Emphasis on looking where moving, especially backwards
- •Adequate spacing between activity stations
- •Progressive introduction of speed elements
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during games
- •Monitor backward movement techniques closely
- •Watch for signs of fatigue affecting safety
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or call for assistance