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Lesson 5 - Working Together with the Parachute

Confidence & Social Skills

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Reception

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Intro to PE

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40 min

Big Question

How can we work together to make amazing things happen with our parachute?

Learning Objectives

To work co-operatively with others in group activities
To follow instructions and respond to signals effectively
To show good control and co-ordination in movements

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate teamwork by working together with the parachute
Students will show improved listening skills by responding to colour and number signals
Students will display better co-ordination through various travelling movements

Equipment & Resources Required

Parachutes

1 large (6-12 metre diameter)

Place in centre of teaching area with clear space all around

Alternative: Large fabric sheet, bedsheet for smaller groups

Markers Cones

4-6 different colours

Place around parachute edge to mark colour sections

Alternative: Coloured bibs, fabric squares

Key Vocabulary

Co-operation

Working together with others to achieve something

Freeze

Stop completely and hold your position like a statue

Signal

A sound or word that tells us what to do

Travelling

Moving from one place to another in different ways

Waves

Up and down movements like water in the sea

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running and stopping movements
Following simple instructions
Awareness of personal space

Current Skills

Co-operative working with equipment
Responding to multiple signals
Group co-ordination and timing

Next Steps

Leading group activities
More complex team games
Advanced parachute techniques

Milestone Indicators

Can work in harmony with the group during parachute activities

Responds quickly and appropriately to different signals

Shows consideration for others during group movements

Key Teaching Points

Teamwork makes activities more successful and enjoyable
Gentle hands and controlled movements keep everyone safe
Listening carefully to instructions helps activities run smoothly
Sharing and taking turns shows good friendship skills
Different signals require different responses
Co-operation means working together towards the same goal
Everyone's contribution is important for group success

Common Misconceptions

Thinking you have to hold the parachute very tightly - teach gentle grip
Believing faster movement is always better - emphasise control and timing
Assuming individual performance matters most - highlight group success
Not understanding that everyone must participate - explain interdependence
Thinking rules restrict fun - show how rules enable better activities

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent changes between active and calm activities, clear boundaries, positive reinforcement for focus

autism spectrum

Clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet break option if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured parachute, clear verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual signals alongside verbal cues, demonstrate all movements, use gestures for stop/start

physical disability

Seated participation option, adaptive handles if needed, modified movements to suit ability

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting during activities, recognition of colours and numbers, spatial concepts of around/under/over

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around outside of parachute circle to observe all children, central position during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for co-operative behaviour, listening skills, and safe equipment handling

Intervention Points

Step in if children become over-excited, not sharing, or unsafe movements occur

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for visibility, involve children in demonstrations, model co-operative language throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Gentle hands on the parachute'
•'Work together like a team'
•'Listen for your signal'
•'Help your friends'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m clear area for parachute activities plus perimeter for running

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, dry and clear of obstacles or trip hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check parachute for tears or damaged handles before use
•Ensure parachute handles are smooth with no sharp edges
•Verify parachute is appropriate size for group number

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Children getting tangled in parachute
•Collisions during running activities
•Over-excitement leading to rough play
•Slips and falls during movements

Risk Mitigation

•Clear instructions about gentle handling of equipment
•Establish one-direction running rule
•Monitor excitement levels and calm when necessary
•Ensure adequate spacing during all activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all children during parachute activities
•Monitor children underneath parachute during games
•Watch for fatigue or over-stimulation

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid if needed, calm other children