Lesson 1 - Jumping in Different Ways
Foundation Flight Skills and Creative Movement Sequences
•Reception
•Gymnastics
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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
Space evenly around activity area
Alternative: Chalk lines drawn on floor, rope ladders laid flat
Tape to floor in straight lines for jumping over
Alternative: Masking tape lines, chalk lines
Scattered around floor for jumping in and out
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles
Set at ankle to knee height for safe jumping
Alternative: Pool noodles on cones, rope between cones
Position for jumping off with mats for landing
Alternative: Low boxes, sturdy platforms
Various heights for progressive jumping
Alternative: Sturdy boxes, low platforms
Place under all jumping apparatus for safe landing
Alternative: Carpet squares, cushions
Mark starting positions and target landing areas
Alternative: Chalk circles, paper plates
Set up for traversing activities with mats underneath
Alternative: Low monkey bars, tunnel
Key Vocabulary
Taking off from the ground with both feet and landing on both feet
Coming back down to the ground after a jump
A series of movements performed one after another
Staying steady and in control of your body position
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
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