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Lesson 5 - Canon Rolling and Apparatus Work

Foundation Movement Patterns Through Rocking and Rolling

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Reception

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Gymnastics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we work together to create beautiful movement sequences using canon timing?

Learning Objectives

To perform rolling movements in canon with a partner
To demonstrate safe mounting of climbing equipment using alternate feet
To create sequences with strong starting and finishing positions

Key Outcomes

Students will work cooperatively to perform rolling sequences in canon
Students will safely navigate apparatus using correct climbing technique
Students will demonstrate improved timing and coordination skills

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

7 large mats

Spread around hall for rolling practice, then arranged around apparatus

Alternative: Crash mats or yoga mats

Apparatus

6 stations

Height appropriate for Reception children (under 1m high)

Alternative: Benches, low boxes, tunnel apparatus

Climbing Frame Section

2-3 pieces

Low height with mats positioned underneath

Alternative: Wall bars, ladder apparatus

Stopwatch

For timing apparatus setup and pack away

Alternative: Mobile phone timer

Key Vocabulary

Canon

Performing the same movement one after the other, like an echo

Alternate feet

Using left foot, then right foot, then left foot when climbing

Starting position

A strong, still shape to begin your movement

Finishing position

A strong, still shape to end your movement

Sequence

A series of movements performed one after another

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic rolling movements (egg roll, pencil roll)
Understanding of starting and finishing positions
Basic apparatus safety rules

Current Skills

Canon timing with a partner
Alternate foot climbing technique
Sequence creation and refinement

Next Steps

More complex canon sequences
Partner lifting and supporting
Advanced apparatus combinations

Milestone Indicators

Maintains timing throughout canon sequence

Demonstrates confident apparatus navigation

Shows clear leadership and following skills

Key Teaching Points

Canon timing requires patience and observation skills
Alternate foot climbing pattern prevents fatigue and builds strength
Strong starting and finishing positions show control and planning
Partner work develops communication and cooperation
Peer feedback helps improve performance when given kindly
Safety rules must be maintained even when excited
Balance improves with practice and focus points

Common Misconceptions

Canon means moving at exactly the same time (should have clear gap)
Climbing should use same foot repeatedly (alternate feet is stronger and safer)
Fast movements are better than controlled ones (control leads to better skill development)
Feedback should focus on mistakes (positive feedback with gentle suggestions works better)
Balance is just physical (mental focus and visual reference points are crucial)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, regular positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Slower demonstrations, simplified sequences, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule, quiet rest area available

visual impairment

Clear verbal descriptions of movements, tactile guidance for apparatus, bright coloured equipment

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, sign language support, written instruction cards

physical disability

Modified apparatus heights, alternative movements for rolling, seated balance challenges

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Letter recognition in warm-up game, vocabulary development, following instructions

Science

Understanding body parts and movement, balance and stability concepts

PSHE

Cooperation skills, giving and receiving feedback, perseverance and resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around hall to observe all pairs, prioritise apparatus supervision

Observation Focus

Canon timing, climbing technique, partner cooperation, safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in if unsafe behaviour, support struggling partnerships, enhance good practice

Demonstration Notes

Use confident children to model good practice, emphasise process over perfection

Verbal Cues

•'Wait for your partner to start moving!'
•'Left foot, right foot, left foot!'
•'Hold that position still and strong!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or gymnasium, minimum 15m x 12m clear space

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles and debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All apparatus appropriate height for Reception children
•Mats correctly positioned under and around apparatus
•Regular equipment safety checks completed

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls from apparatus
•Collisions during rolling activities
•Finger trapping in apparatus setup

Risk Mitigation

•Adult supervision during apparatus work
•Clear safety rules established and rehearsed
•Adequate spacing between working pairs
•Progressive skill building from floor to apparatus

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all apparatus
•Prioritise climbing activities for direct supervision
•Monitor apparatus setup and pack away procedures

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if serious