Lesson 5 - Rocking and Rolling Development
Body Control Skills
•Reception
•Gymnastics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
Sign up free to access 3 complete units per month, unlimited activity library, and your personal locker.
What's included
- Complete activity instructions & timing
- Teaching tips & differentiation strategies
- Assessment guidance & success criteria
- Downloadable lessons & units
How can we move our bodies in different rolling shapes whilst staying safe and controlled?
Learning Objectives
- To develop confidence and control in rocking movements
- To practise and refine barrel and straight rolling techniques
- To create and remember simple movement sequences
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate controlled rocking movements in different positions
- Students will perform barrel and straight rolls with improved technique and safety
- Students will create and perform a simple sequence linking rolls, jumps and balances
Equipment & Resources Required
Space mats evenly around the area with clear pathways between
Alternative: Carpet tiles, blankets or towels for home use
Keep in central location for distribution during activities
Alternative: Small soft toys, rolled up socks
Key Vocabulary
Moving backwards and forwards in a controlled way whilst maintaining a body shape
Moving the whole body in a circular motion from one position to another
Rolling sideways in a tucked position like a ball
Rolling sideways with the body stretched out in a straight line
A series of movements performed in a specific order
Staying still and steady in one position
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic body awareness and control from previous gymnastics units
- Understanding of personal space and moving safely
- Experience with simple shapes like tucked and straight positions
Current Skills
- Controlled rocking movements in different positions
- Rolling techniques maintaining body shapes
- Sequencing movements with memory retention
Next Steps
- More complex rolling patterns and combinations
- Advanced balance positions and transitions
- Creating longer sequences with partner work
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Maintain body shape throughout all rolling movements
- Squeeze muscles to help control and hold shapes
- Take turns safely and support partners
- Start slowly and build control before adding challenges
- Listen carefully and follow instructions for safety
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking rolling should be fast - emphasise control over speed
- Believing rolling is just 'falling over' - teach it as skilled controlled movement
- Assuming all rolls are the same - highlight differences between barrel and straight
- Thinking you need to be strong - focus on technique and body awareness
- Believing some students 'can't' roll - adapt and support to ensure everyone succeeds
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent movement breaks, clear boundaries, simple instruction chunks, positive reinforcement
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time, simplified sequences, adult guidance for positioning, celebrate small improvements
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual sequence cards, quiet space available, predictable partner pairings
visual impairment
- Clear verbal descriptions of movements, tactile guidance for body positioning, bright coloured mats
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations, clear gestures, written sequence cards, partner support
physical disability
- Adapted movements from sitting position, supported rolling, focus on achievable elements
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting rocks in sequences, understanding shapes (round for barrel, straight line), directional language
Science
Forces in rolling motion, muscle control and coordination, understanding of momentum and control
Communication and Language
Following instructions, describing movements, using positional vocabulary
PSHE
Taking turns fairly, supporting others, building confidence, celebrating achievements
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position with clear sight lines to all mats, move around to give individual support
Observation Focus
Watch for maintenance of body shapes, controlled movements, and safe turn-taking
Intervention Points
Step in if students rushing movements, losing control, or not following safety guidelines
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements; demonstrate on a mat; involve students in showing good examples
Verbal Cues
- •'Squeeze those muscles!'
- •'Keep your shape!'
- •'Slow and controlled!'
- •'Wait for your turn!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 8m x 8m hall space with mats providing adequate personal space for each pair
Surface Check
Clean, dry, level floor free from obstacles; mats checked for wear and proper placement
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Mats inspected for tears, proper thickness, and non-slip base
- •Beanbags checked for secure stitching and appropriate filling
- •Ensure no hard objects near rolling areas
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during rolling
- •Injury from rolling off mats onto hard floor
- •Neck strain from incorrect rolling technique
- •Overcrowding on individual mats
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established around each mat with adequate spacing
- •Partner system ensures one student rolls while other observes
- •Emphasis on controlled movement rather than speed
- •Progressive skill building from stationary rocking to full rolling
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all mats simultaneously
- •Move around to provide individual technique support
- •Monitor turn-taking and safe spacing
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school procedures if needed