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Lesson 2 - Gymnastic Shapes and Body Letters

Animal Stories in Gymnastics

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Year 1

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Gymnastics

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Big Question

How can we use our bodies to create strong, controlled shapes that tell a story?

Learning Objectives

To learn and perform basic gymnastic shapes with control and quality
To link simple actions and shapes together in sequence
To create letters and words using body shapes

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate at least 5 basic gymnastic shapes
Students will hold shapes for 5 seconds with muscle tension
Students will work collaboratively to create letter shapes

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

15 (1 between 2 students)

Spread evenly around hall with safe pathways between

Alternative: Yoga mats, carpet squares

Cards

1 set for teacher demonstration

Positioned where all students can see clearly

Alternative: Shape posters, tablet with images

Key Vocabulary

Shape

A specific body position held still and strong

Tension

Making muscles tight and strong to hold a position

Level

How high or low your body is from the ground

Star

Body spread wide with arms and legs stretched out

Tuck

Body curled up in a tight ball

Pike

Body bent at hips with straight legs

Arch

Body curved backwards like a bridge

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and personal space
Following simple instructions and demonstrations
Understanding of high, medium, and low levels

Current Skills

Creating and holding basic gymnastic shapes
Linking shapes with simple movements
Using muscle tension for control and quality

Next Steps

Developing more complex shape sequences
Adding apparatus work to shape practice
Creating longer sequences with smooth transitions

Milestone Indicators

Holds shapes for 5 seconds without wobbling

Can name and demonstrate all 7 basic shapes

Shows clear muscle tension and pointed extremities

Key Teaching Points

Muscle tension is essential for quality gymnastic shapes
Partner cooperation requires communication and planning
Shape memory develops through repeated practice
Letter formation connects gymnastics to literacy learning
Quality performance includes pointed extremities and held positions
Safety comes from controlled movements and awareness of others
Creative problem-solving enhances engagement and learning

Common Misconceptions

Gymnastic shapes don't require muscle tension - emphasise 'strong like steel'
Faster is better - stress quality over speed in all activities
Only arms needed for letter formation - encourage whole-body involvement
Shapes are easy - highlight the skill required for proper execution
Partner work means one person does everything - stress shared responsibility

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Include movement breaks, clear boundaries, immediate feedback, shorter held positions initially

dyspraxia

Break down shapes into smaller components, additional practice time, use wall or partner support for balance

autism spectrum

Provide clear sequence cards, consistent routines, quiet space available if needed, visual supports for instructions

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of shapes, provide physical guidance for positioning, partner support for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use visual shape cards and demonstrations, clear visual signals for changes, written instruction sheets

physical disability

Adapt shapes for seated or supported positions, use available range of movement, focus on achievable modifications

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Letter recognition and formation, vocabulary development, following instructions

Maths

Shape recognition, spatial awareness, counting and timing sequences

Science

Understanding muscle function, body systems, forces and tension

Art

Creating visual representations with body as medium, exploring curves and lines

PSHE

Cooperation, taking turns, celebrating differences, building confidence

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space to observe all students, position near mat area for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for shape accuracy, muscle tension, partner cooperation, and spatial awareness

Intervention Points

Step in if unsafe movements, poor cooperation, or students struggling with concepts

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate shapes clearly before students attempt, exaggerate muscle tension for visibility, use enthusiastic voice to maintain engagement

Verbal Cues

•'Squeeze those muscles!'
•'Make your body strong like steel!'
•'Point those fingers and toes!'
•'Hold it... hold it... perfect!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 12m hall space with 15 mats distributed safely

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface for mat placement and movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats are flat and secure before use
•Ensure no torn or damaged mat edges
•Verify adequate thickness for floor work

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during warm-up running
•Overexertion during sustained positions
•Falls when attempting challenging shapes

Risk Mitigation

•Clear pathways established between mats
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Partner support during challenging activities
•Regular breaks between intense positions

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Monitor high-activity areas during warm-up
•Check partner interactions for safety
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, clear evacuation route maintained