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Lesson 1 - Jumping Techniques and Control

Jumping & Dynamic Mastery

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Reception

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Fundamental Movement Skills

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1h 1min

Big Question

How can we use our whole body to jump safely and powerfully in different directions?

Learning Objectives

To develop jumping skills using different techniques and directions
To understand the importance of safe landing with bent knees
To demonstrate controlled movement within defined spaces

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to perform various jumping techniques with increasing control
Students will demonstrate safe landing techniques with bent knees
Students will work cooperatively and safely within activity spaces

Equipment & Resources Required

Sun Markers

30 markers

Lines spaced 2 metres apart across activity area

Alternative: Chalk to draw lines, rope laid on ground

SAQ Ladders

4-6 ladders

Laid flat on ground with clear approach space

Alternative: Chalk squares, hoops laid flat

Low Hurdles

8-10 hurdles/cones

Height 15-20cm, spaced 1 metre apart

Alternative: Pool noodles, small traffic cones

Wall Bars

4-6 bars

Placed 25cm apart at ground level

Alternative: Skipping ropes laid on ground

Soft Dodgeballs

6-8 balls

For boulder throwing game activity

Alternative: Bean bags, soft playground balls

Mats

30 spots

For hopscotch pattern and jumping targets

Alternative: Chalk circles, small mats

Key Vocabulary

Take-off

The moment when both feet leave the ground to begin a jump

Landing

When feet touch the ground at the end of a jump

Two feet to two feet

Jumping using both feet to take off and both feet to land

Scissor kick

A jumping technique where legs move like scissors in the air

Quarter turn

Turning 90 degrees while jumping

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic locomotor movements (walking, running)
Simple two-footed jumps on the spot
Following simple movement instructions

Current Skills

Jumping with control in multiple directions
Safe landing techniques with bent knees
Jumping over obstacles and markers

Next Steps

Jumping for distance and height
Combining jumps in sequences
Advanced jumping techniques in gymnastics

Milestone Indicators

Consistent bent-knee landings

Controlled directional changes while jumping

Ability to maintain rhythm in continuous jumping

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise bent-knee landings for safety in all jumping activities
Use arms for balance and power - swing them to help with jump momentum
Spatial awareness is crucial - always check landing area before jumping backwards
Quality over quantity - better to do fewer jumps with good technique
Build confidence through progressive skill development from basic to advanced
Encourage persistence with challenging skills while maintaining safety focus
Peer encouragement and recognition builds positive learning environment

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Jumping higher is always better - Correction: Controlled, safe jumping with good technique is the priority
Misconception: Landing on straight legs is acceptable - Correction: Always emphasise bent knees for shock absorption
Misconception: All children should master advanced skills like scissor kicks - Correction: Focus on individual progress and effort
Misconception: Speed is most important in circuits - Correction: Technique and safety are more important than completion time
Misconception: Harder throwing makes boulder game more fun - Correction: Gentle throws maintain safety and inclusion

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use shorter activity segments with frequent changes, provide specific roles and responsibilities, clear boundaries and expectations

dyspraxia

Use larger targets and lower equipment, allow extra practice time, provide step-by-step verbal guidance for complex movements

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of lesson sections, warn of noise levels during games, offer quiet space if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all visual demonstrations, assign buddy for guidance during circuit

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for start/stop, written or pictorial instructions for stations

physical disability

Allow seated jumping movements, modify jump heights to abilities, provide alternative stepping movements over equipment

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting jumps in timed challenges, measuring jump distances, understanding quarter turns and spatial directions

Science

Understanding forces in jumping and landing, body systems working during exercise, impact and cushioning effects

PSHE

Building confidence through skill development, cooperation and encouragement of others, resilience when facing challenges

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move continuously around activity area to observe all children, position for maximum visibility during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for soft landing technique, spatial awareness, effort levels, and cooperative behaviour

Intervention Points

Step in when children show poor landing technique, unsafe behaviour, or need encouragement to persist

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate jumping techniques slowly first, then at normal speed. Exaggerate key points like knee bend and arm swing. Use children as positive examples whenever possible.

Verbal Cues

•'Soft knees, quiet landings!'
•'Use your arms to help!'
•'Look where you're going!'
•'Take your time - safety first!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 30m clear area, indoor hall or outdoor playground surface

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris, adequate cushioning for jumping activities

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check agility ladders lay flat with no raised edges
•Ensure hurdles are appropriate height (15-20cm) and stable
•Verify soft balls are foam/soft material only
•Confirm all markers and cones have no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ankle injuries from incorrect landing technique
•Collisions during circuit work and games
•Falls during backwards jumping
•Over-exertion during continuous jumping

Risk Mitigation

•Constant emphasis on bent-knee landing technique
•Clear spacing requirements and traffic flow in circuit
•Careful supervision during backwards jumping
•Regular rest periods and technique checks
•Gentle throwing rules strictly enforced in boulder game

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all children during circuit work
•Active monitoring of throwing intensity in boulder game
•Close supervision during backwards jumping practice
•Quick response to technique problems before they become habits

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact school medical support if needed