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Lesson 5 - Rocking and Rolling Development

Body Control Skills

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Reception

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Gymnastics

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40 min

Big Question

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

Gymnastics Mats

15 (1 between 2 students)

Space mats evenly around the area with clear pathways between

Alternative: Carpet tiles, blankets or towels for home use

Balls

15 (optional)

Keep in central location for distribution during activities

Alternative: Small soft toys, rolled up socks

Key Vocabulary

Rocking

Moving backwards and forwards in a controlled way whilst maintaining a body shape

Rolling

Moving the whole body in a circular motion from one position to another

Barrel roll

Rolling sideways in a tucked position like a ball

Straight roll

Rolling sideways with the body stretched out in a straight line

Sequence

A series of movements performed in a specific order

Balance

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

Maintains body shape throughout rolling movements

Demonstrates spatial awareness during movement

Shows improvement in muscle control and coordination

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