🤸

Lesson 6 - Rolling Mastery and Sequence Building

Foundation Movement Patterns Through Rocking and Rolling

•

Reception

•

Gymnastics

•

1h 10min

Big Question

How can we combine different rolls with rocking movements to create a flowing gymnastics sequence?

Learning Objectives

To demonstrate three different types of rolls with good control
To link rolls together using rocking movements
To give constructive feedback to a partner

Key Outcomes

Students will perform three different rolls with improved control and technique
Students will create a sequence linking rolls with rocking movements
Students will provide positive feedback to help peers improve

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

7 thick mats

Distributed around hall with clear space between each

Alternative: Exercise mats, carpet tiles for rolling practice

Apparatus

6 sets (benches, low boxes, tunnels)

Set up in circuits with clear pathways

Alternative: Chairs, tables, large cushions for travelling over/under

Balls

20-30 items

Pile at one end for treasure game

Alternative: Small toys, blocks, any collectible items

Stopwatch

Teacher held for apparatus setup challenge

Alternative: Phone timer, wall clock for timing

Benches

Positioned for 'walking the plank' activity

Alternative: Line of tape, rope on floor, imaginary plank

Key Vocabulary

Sequence

A series of movements performed one after another in order

Control

Being able to start and stop movements exactly when you want to

Transition

The movement that links one skill to another

Feedback

Helpful comments that help someone improve their performance

Apparatus

Special gymnastics equipment like mats, benches and boxes

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic rolling movements (log roll, egg roll)
Simple rocking actions on floor
Following apparatus safety rules

Current Skills

Demonstrating three different roll types
Linking rolls with rocking movements
Creating sequences with clear start and finish positions

Next Steps

Combining rolling with other gymnastic actions
Performing sequences on varied apparatus
Teaching sequences to others

Milestone Indicators

Smooth transitions between different rolls

Controlled body position throughout sequences

Ability to repeat sequences consistently

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise head and neck safety in all rolling activities
Encourage smooth, controlled movements rather than speed
Focus on quality of feedback between partners
Maintain apparatus safety rules consistently throughout
Celebrate both skill achievement and positive attitudes
Use rocking movements as effective transitions between rolls
Promote creativity within safe movement boundaries

Common Misconceptions

Rolling faster means better technique - emphasise control over speed
All rolls should look the same - celebrate individual movement solutions
Apparatus work is more dangerous - reinforce safety rules prevent injury
Feedback should focus on mistakes - teach positive, constructive approach
Only 'good' gymnasts can give feedback - everyone can observe and help others

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use timer for activity segments, provide movement breaks, clear structure and expectations

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller steps, allow extra practice time, provide physical guidance as needed

autism spectrum

Provide visual sequence cards, maintain consistent routines, offer quiet space if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured mats for contrast, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, pair with sighted buddy for apparatus work

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for commands, position close for demonstrations, provide written instruction cards

physical disability

Adapt rolling to supported positions, modify apparatus heights, allow alternative movement patterns

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development for movement terms, descriptive language for feedback, listening and speaking skills

Maths

Counting sequences, timing activities, measuring distances for apparatus setup, recognising geometric shapes in body positions

Science

Understanding forces in rolling movements, gravity effects, body systems responding to exercise

PSHE

Cooperation and communication skills, giving and receiving feedback, celebrating different achievements

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around space to observe all children, position centrally during demonstrations, closer supervision during apparatus work

Observation Focus

Rolling technique and head/neck safety, cooperation and communication skills, sequence development and creativity

Intervention Points

Stop unsafe rolling immediately, support struggling partnerships, redirect off-task behaviour positively

Demonstration Notes

Show all roll types clearly and safely, demonstrate feedback process with specific examples, model apparatus safety throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Tuck your chin to keep your head safe!'
•'Rock gently to connect your rolls!'
•'Remember your sequence order!'
•'Use kind words to help your partner!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall space minimum 10m x 15m, clear of obstacles, adequate height clearance

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, clean and dry, free from debris or hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats are thick enough for rolling activities
•Ensure apparatus is stable and properly assembled
•Verify adequate spacing between apparatus stations
•Check bench is secure for 'walking the plank' activity

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collision during dynamic warm-up
•Falls during rolling activities
•Equipment-related injuries during setup/pack-away
•Overexertion during apparatus work

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and controlled movement in warm-up
•Proper progression from simple to complex rolls
•Strict adherence to apparatus safety rules
•Continuous supervision during all activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe rolling technique for head/neck safety
•Monitor apparatus handling for cooperative lifting
•Watch for fatigue during extended practice sessions
•Ensure appropriate challenge level for each child

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately for any injury, assess severity, apply first aid if trained, contact office for serious injuries, document incident appropriately