Exploring Movement Pathways Through Creative Gymnastics
•Year 1
•Gymnastics
•Spread evenly around hall for apparatus work section
Alternative: Carpet squares or towels for sliding practice
Set up in stations around the hall with clear pathways between
Alternative: Sturdy chairs or low tables (supervised use only)
Use to mark pathway corners and starting positions
Alternative: Bean bags, plastic bottles, or chalk marks
For timing apparatus setup and pack away
Alternative: Phone timer or classroom clock
For recording peer assessment dialogue and movement examples
Alternative: Note-taking for assessment observations
The route or direction you travel in, like straight, curved, or zigzag lines
Using your muscles to move yourself forward by pressing against the ground
Using your muscles to drag yourself forward by gripping and pulling
A series of movements performed one after another in order
Moving close to the ground, using hands, knees, or lying down
A shape with three sides and three corners
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Speaking and listening - giving feedback, following instructions, using descriptive vocabulary for movement
Geometry - recognising and creating 2D shapes, understanding properties of triangles, squares, circles
Forces and motion - pushing and pulling forces, friction between body and floor, balance and stability
Direction and position - understanding pathways and routes, spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns
Working with others - peer assessment skills, giving constructive feedback, celebrating others' achievements
Move around perimeter for full class visibility, closer supervision during apparatus work
Monitor pathway accuracy, movement control, peer interaction quality, safety awareness
Step in for unsafe movement, support struggling learners, manage peer assessment quality, enforce apparatus rules
Use clear, slow demonstrations emphasising key teaching points. Include children as demonstrators where appropriate to model good practice
Hall or large indoor space minimum 15m x 10m, clear of obstacles
Non-slip surface, checked for hazards, appropriate for floor work
Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear evacuation routes, contact emergency services if serious injury
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