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Big Question

How can we jump and turn safely while creating exciting movement sequences?

Learning Objectives

  • To jump through turns with control and confidence
  • To jump as part of a sequence combining different movements
  • To demonstrate awareness of others when jumping and moving

Key Outcomes

  • Students will perform controlled jumps with quarter and half turns
  • Students will create and perform a jumping sequence
  • Students will move safely around apparatus showing spatial awareness

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player
1 set

Position for clear sound throughout hall

Alternative: Tablet with speaker, whistle for signals

Gymnastics Mats
4-6

Spread around hall for circuit stations

Alternative: Soft play mats, carpet tiles

Low Gymnastics Boxes
2-3

Height appropriate for Reception children

Alternative: Sturdy boxes, benches

Gymnastics Benches
1 (optional)

Secure and stable positioning

Alternative: Sturdy planks, balance beams

Climbing Frame Section
1

Safe traversing height for Reception

Alternative: Large apparatus, tunnel

Mats
30 (for 10 groups of 3)

Bright colours for visibility

Alternative: Small hoops, bean bags

Ropes
6-8

Tape to floor for tightrope walking

Alternative: Rope markings, chalk lines

Key Vocabulary

Quarter turn

A turn through 90 degrees, like turning to face the wall from facing the front

Half turn

A turn through 180 degrees, like turning to face the opposite direction

Sequence

A series of movements performed one after another in order

Control

Moving with balance and being able to stop or change direction when needed

Spatial awareness

Knowing where you are in relation to others and objects around you

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic jumping on two feet
  • Simple travelling movements
  • Following instructions and stop signals

Current Skills

  • Jumping with turns and control
  • Creating movement sequences
  • Using apparatus for jumping activities

Next Steps

  • More complex turning movements
  • Longer movement sequences
  • Advanced apparatus work

Milestone Indicators

1
Controlled landings after jumps
2
Smooth transitions between movements
3
Consistent spatial awareness

Key Teaching Points

  • Always emphasise knee bend for take-off and landing safety
  • Use directional references (walls, corners) to clarify turn amounts
  • Build sequences gradually from individual skills to combinations
  • Encourage peer support and positive feedback throughout
  • Maintain clear safety expectations during apparatus work
  • Allow multiple attempts and celebrate improvement over perfection
  • Use engaging contexts (mole hills, animals) to maintain motivation

Common Misconceptions

  • Children thinking faster jumping means better jumping - emphasise control over speed
  • Confusion between quarter and half turns - use clear wall references and arm demonstrations
  • Belief that higher is always better - focus on technique and control first
  • Thinking apparatus work is just about reaching the top - emphasise varied movement exploration
  • Assuming same techniques work for all children - model differentiated approaches

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Regular movement breaks built in, clear boundaries marked, frequent positive reinforcement
dyspraxia
  • Slower skill progression, extra practice time, simplified sequences initially
autism spectrum
  • Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet area available if needed
visual impairment
  • Clear verbal descriptions of directions, textured spots for target identification, buddy system for apparatus work
hearing impairment
  • Visual signals for start/stop, demonstration emphasis, written instruction cards
physical disability
  • Modified jumping heights, seated balance alternatives, adapted apparatus or support rails

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Understanding degrees in turns (90, 180), counting sequences, spatial awareness and direction

Science

Forces in jumping, gravity and landing, balance and centre of gravity

Geography

Directional language (left, right, quarter, half), spatial orientation and mapping concepts

PSHE

Taking turns fairly, giving positive feedback, building confidence through achievement

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during instruction, circulate during practice, corner position for apparatus overview

Observation Focus

Landing technique, spatial awareness, turn control, peer interaction quality

Intervention Points

Step in for safety concerns, support struggling individuals, enhance good examples

Demonstration Notes

Use children as demonstrators when possible, exaggerate key technique points, show both correct and improved versions

Verbal Cues
  • •'Bend those knees like springs!'
  • •'Soft landings like cats!'
  • •'Check your space before jumping!'
  • •'Arms help you jump higher!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or sports hall, minimum 15m x 10m clear space

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, clean and dry, free from obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • •All apparatus stable and age-appropriate height
  • •Mats positioned under jumping apparatus
  • •Spots/markers secure and non-slip
  • •Music equipment positioned safely away from activity area

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • •Collisions during movement activities
  • •Falls from apparatus
  • •Hard landings from jumping
  • •Equipment becoming loose or displaced
Risk Mitigation
  • •Clear spacing guidelines for all activities
  • •Progressive skill building from simple to complex
  • •Constant supervision during apparatus work
  • •Controlled group sizes at each station

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • •Position for visibility of all apparatus stations
  • •Circulate during partner and group work
  • •Monitor energy levels and fatigue
  • •Ensure equipment remains secure
Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear evacuation route