🤸

Lesson 1 - Jumping in Different Ways

Foundation Flight Skills and Creative Movement Sequences

•

Reception

•

Gymnastics

•

45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to jump safely in different directions and create sequences with friends?

Learning Objectives

Develop jumping skills in a variety of ways and directions
Learn to land safely with bent knees to cushion impact
Create simple jumping sequences with a partner

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate various jumping techniques including sideways, forwards, and backwards
Students will show understanding of safe landing by bending legs to cushion impact
Students will work cooperatively with partners to create and perform simple jumping sequences

Equipment & Resources Required

SAQ Ladders

4-6 ladders

Space evenly around activity area

Alternative: Chalk lines drawn on floor, rope ladders laid flat

Ropes

8-10 ropes

Tape to floor in straight lines for jumping over

Alternative: Masking tape lines, chalk lines

Hoops

10-15 hoops

Scattered around floor for jumping in and out

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles

Wall Bars

4-6 bars

Set at ankle to knee height for safe jumping

Alternative: Pool noodles on cones, rope between cones

Gymnastics Benches

2-3 benches

Position for jumping off with mats for landing

Alternative: Low boxes, sturdy platforms

Gymnastics Blocks

2-3 sets

Various heights for progressive jumping

Alternative: Sturdy boxes, low platforms

Safety Mats

6-8 mats

Place under all jumping apparatus for safe landing

Alternative: Carpet squares, cushions

Rubber Spots

20-30 spots

Mark starting positions and target landing areas

Alternative: Chalk circles, paper plates

Climbing Frames

1 frame

Set up for traversing activities with mats underneath

Alternative: Low monkey bars, tunnel

Key Vocabulary

Jump

Taking off from the ground with both feet and landing on both feet

Landing

Coming back down to the ground after a jump

Sequence

A series of movements performed one after another

Balance

Staying steady and in control of your body position

Direction

The way you move - forwards, backwards, sideways

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic balance on one foot
Simple hopping movements
Following simple instructions

Current Skills

Jumping in multiple directions
Safe landing techniques
Partner cooperation in movement

Next Steps

More complex jumping sequences
Jumping from apparatus
Combining jumps with other gymnastics movements

Milestone Indicators

Controlled landing with bent knees

Jumping in three different directions

Working cooperatively to create sequences

Key Teaching Points

Always emphasise bending knees on landing for safety
Encourage exploration of different directions - not just forwards
Focus on control rather than height or distance
Use positive language to build confidence
Demonstrate clear differences between jumping styles
Promote cooperation and turn-taking throughout
Celebrate individual achievements and progress

Common Misconceptions

Children think bigger jumps are always better - emphasise control over distance
Belief that landing should be loud - teach silent, soft landings
Assumption that sequences must be complex - start simple and build up
Children may think they need to copy exactly - encourage personal interpretation
Misconception that apparatus is only for climbing - show jumping applications

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries marked, frequent positive feedback and redirection

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier targeting, reduced complexity in sequences, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured equipment, clear verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all movements, hand signals for directions, written instruction cards

physical disability

Seated jumping alternatives, modified equipment heights, adapted landing surfaces

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting jumps in sequences, measuring jump distances, understanding directions and spatial concepts

Science

Forces in jumping and landing, understanding how muscles work, effects of exercise on body

Geography

Directional language - forwards, backwards, sideways, spatial awareness and navigation

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, building confidence, celebrating achievements, encouraging others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around circuit to maintain visibility of all children, position near challenging apparatus

Observation Focus

Watch for safe landing technique, controlled movements, and positive cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe behaviour, support struggling partnerships, assist with apparatus technique

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for jumping techniques, emphasise safety points, involve children in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Bend those knees!'
•'Soft landings!'
•'Wait for your turn!'
•'Show me control!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 10m x 15m clear space plus apparatus setup area

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles and trip hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All apparatus properly secured and stable
•Jumping bars at appropriate height (ankle to knee)
•Safety mats positioned under all apparatus
•Regular equipment checks for wear and damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between children during jumping activities
•Falls from apparatus or during landing
•Trips over equipment or other children
•Overexertion during continuous jumping

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and adequate spacing between children
•Proper instruction in safe landing technique
•Adult supervision at apparatus stations
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Regular safety reminders and checks

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe apparatus circuit clearly
•Monitor high-energy jumping activities
•Watch for fatigue and unsafe behaviour
•Ensure turn-taking at equipment stations

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if needed