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Lesson 2 - Rocking and Rolling Development

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 different body shapes to rock and roll safely?

Learning Objectives

To develop controlled rocking movements in different directions
To perform log rolls and egg rolls with good technique
To mount apparatus safely using alternate feet

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled rocking movements forwards, backwards and sideways
Students will perform log and egg rolls as part of a simple sequence
Students will show safe mounting techniques on apparatus using alternate feet

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

6-8 mats

Scattered around hall for rolling practice

Alternative: Carpet squares or crash mats

Apparatus

Varied stations

Set up in circuit formation around hall

Alternative: Benches, low boxes, wall bars

Stopwatch

For timing apparatus setup and pack away

Alternative: Phone timer

Key Vocabulary

Log roll

Rolling sideways keeping body straight and narrow like a log

Egg roll

Rolling while curled up in a tight ball like an egg

Narrow shape

Making your body long and thin by keeping arms and legs close together

Alternate feet

Using one foot then the other, not the same foot twice

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 rocking movements on back
Simple balance positions
Following apparatus safety rules

Current Skills

Rocking in multiple directions
Log and egg rolling techniques
Safe apparatus mounting with alternate feet

Next Steps

Combining rolls into longer sequences
Dismounting apparatus safely
Forward and backward rolling

Milestone Indicators

Maintains narrow body shape during log rolls

Shows control when rocking back to standing

Consistently uses alternate feet when climbing

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise narrow body shape for log rolling and tight ball shape for egg rolling
Ensure alternate feet mounting pattern is consistently reinforced and demonstrated
Build rolling sequences gradually from individual skills to combined movements
Maintain strict apparatus safety rules throughout the session
Use clear verbal cues and exaggerated demonstrations for body shapes
Encourage controlled movement over speed in all rolling activities
Connect rocking movements to rolling to show skill progression

Common Misconceptions

Students think faster rolling is better - emphasise control and technique over speed
Confusion between log and egg shapes - use clear contrasting demonstrations
Believing same foot mounting is acceptable - consistently reinforce alternating pattern
Thinking apparatus work is about queuing - explain continuous circuit movement
Assuming rolling is just spinning - teach proper body shapes and control

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts, clear movement boundaries, regular positive feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for coordination, simplified sequences, adult support for complex movements

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson sections, consistent apparatus setup routine, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of body shapes, tactile guidance for rolling positions, buddy system for apparatus work

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for direction changes, written apparatus rules displayed

physical disability

Adapted rolling on crash mats, alternative mounting activities, seated balance challenges

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Letter recognition in warm-up, following multi-step instructions, describing movements using action words

Maths

Counting alternate feet patterns, sequencing movements in order, spatial awareness concepts

Science

Forces in rolling movements, friction and movement, body systems and balance

PSHE

Following safety rules, cooperation in apparatus work, perseverance in skill development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around apparatus stations to supervise mounting and rolling techniques closely

Observation Focus

Watch for correct mounting technique, body shapes in rolling, and safety rule adherence

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe apparatus use or poor rolling technique

Demonstration Notes

Use clear body shapes, exaggerate narrow and tucked positions, show mounting technique slowly

Verbal Cues

•'Narrow like a log!'
•'Alternate feet - left, right, left!'
•'Control your rolling speed!'
•'Tight egg shape!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

School hall or large gymnasium with adequate ceiling height for apparatus

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all apparatus is stable and properly assembled
•Ensure mats are flat with no tears or worn areas
•Verify all equipment is age-appropriate for Reception students

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during rolling activities
•Collisions during apparatus work
•Overbalancing during mounting
•Equipment-related injuries

Risk Mitigation

•Adequate spacing during floor work
•Supervised apparatus setup and use
•Clear apparatus rules and procedures
•Progressive skill development from simple to complex

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all apparatus stations
•Active monitoring of mounting techniques
•Immediate intervention for unsafe behaviour

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, follow school accident procedures