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Lesson 3 - Forward and Side Rolling

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 use our bodies to roll safely and confidently in different directions?

Learning Objectives

To develop forward and sideways rolling techniques with control
To demonstrate safe rolling practices and body preparation
To travel confidently around, under, over and through apparatus

Key Outcomes

Students will roll sideways and forwards with improved control
Students will demonstrate understanding of safe rolling techniques
Students will travel with confidence through apparatus sequences

Equipment & Resources Required

Wedge Mats

6-8

Position for downward rolling practice

Alternative: Thick mats folded to create incline

Tables

4-6

Various heights for travelling over and under

Alternative: Benches, low boxes

Safety Mats

15-20

One at end and parallel to each piece of apparatus

Alternative: None - essential for safety

Mats

3 per group for molehill flattening game

Alternative: Chalk circles, tape markers

Stopwatch

For timing apparatus setup challenge

Alternative: Phone timer, class timer

Key Vocabulary

Forward roll

Rolling over forwards in a tucked position from standing to standing

Side roll

Rolling sideways on the shoulder from squat to squat position

Tucked position

Body curled up with knees to chest and chin tucked down

Apparatus

Gymnastics equipment used for movement sequences

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 body awareness and control
Simple travelling movements (walking, running)
Following instructions and safety rules

Current Skills

Forward rolling technique development
Side rolling coordination
Apparatus confidence building

Next Steps

Backward rolling introduction
Linking multiple rolls in sequence
Advanced apparatus work combinations

Milestone Indicators

Maintains tucked position during rolls

Shows spatial awareness on apparatus

Demonstrates increasing confidence and control

Key Teaching Points

Rolling must always be on shoulders and back, never on head or neck
Chin tucked throughout rolling movements for safety
Hand placement shoulder-width apart for forward rolls
Progressive development from supported to independent rolling
Apparatus work requires constant safety awareness
Differentiation through choice of apparatus complexity
Celebration of both effort and achievement equally

Common Misconceptions

Rolling on head is acceptable - emphasise shoulder rolling only
Faster rolling is better - focus on control over speed
All students must achieve same level - celebrate individual progress
Apparatus work is only for confident students - provide suitable challenges for all

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries and expectations, positive reinforcement for focus

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for coordination, simplified sequences initially, verbal reminders for body position

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual timetable of lesson sections, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use tactile markers for hand placement, verbal descriptions of rolling actions, partner guidance for apparatus navigation

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written sequence cards available

physical disability

Seated rolling alternatives, modified apparatus height, alternative jumping movements from wheelchair or standing

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting jumps and rolls, understanding spatial concepts (over, under, around, through)

Science

Forces in rolling and jumping, balance and centre of gravity, body systems during exercise

Geography

Directional language, spatial awareness, mapping movement pathways

PSHE

Risk assessment, cooperation and teamwork, celebrating personal achievement and effort

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the hall to observe all groups, position for maximum visibility during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct rolling technique, confident apparatus work, safe practices throughout

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe technique, provide support for struggling students, celebrate good examples

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for rolling technique, emphasise safety points, select good student examples to model

Verbal Cues

•'Chin tucked, look through your legs!'
•'Roll on your shoulders, not your head!'
•'Show me control in your movement!'
•'Safety first, then challenge yourself!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall space minimum 15m x 10m, clear of obstacles with adequate ceiling height for jumping

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface essential for safe rolling and landing

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats are properly positioned and not slippery
•Ensure apparatus is stable and age-appropriate height
•Inspect floor spots/hoops for damage or sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Head/neck injury from incorrect rolling technique
•Falls from apparatus
•Collisions during group activities
•Impact injuries from jumping activities

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise rolling on shoulders not head
•Ensure adequate matting around all apparatus
•Maintain clear spacing during activities
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all apparatus stations
•Actively monitor rolling technique
•Watch for signs of fatigue affecting safety

Emergency Procedures

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