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Lesson 1 - Multi-Directional Speed

Foundational Movement Skills

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Reception

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Fundamental Movement Skills

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45 min

Big Question

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

Cones

20-30

Spread around activity area, some upright, some inverted

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, hoops

Small Balls

16 (4 per group)

Initially placed on cones for Activity 2

Alternative: Bean bags, soft toys

Hoops

Positioned at appropriate distance from cone stations

Alternative: Mats, designated floor spaces

Stopwatch

For timing activities and games

Alternative: Phone timer, countdown app

Key Vocabulary

Forwards

Moving in the direction you are facing

Backwards

Moving in the opposite direction to where you are facing

Sideways

Moving to the left or right side

Speed

How fast you can move from one place to another

Agility

The ability to change direction quickly

Sidestep

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

Confident backward movement

Smooth direction changes

Sustained speed over distance

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