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Lesson 5 - Roman Life Through Yoga Poses

Stories & Breathing Practices

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Year 1

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Yoga

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to tell stories about life in ancient Rome?

Learning Objectives

To perform a variety of yoga poses with control and balance
To demonstrate understanding of Roman life through creative movement
To develop self-confidence and self-motivation in physical activity

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to hold basic yoga poses with improved balance
Students will connect physical movements to historical themes
Students will show increased self-confidence in their practice

Equipment & Resources Required

Yoga Mat

1 per student (30)

Spread evenly across activity area with arm's length between each

Alternative: Carpet squares, towels, or designated floor spaces

Relaxation Music

1 speaker system

Volume low enough for instruction to be heard clearly

Alternative: Calm nature sounds or soft classical music

Storybook

1 (George and the Knight or similar)

Ready for conclusion reading

Alternative: Any calm knight or Roman soldier story

Key Vocabulary

Balance

Keeping your body steady and controlled

Breathing

Taking air in through your nose and out through your mouth

Pose

A specific yoga position held with control

Warrior

A strong Roman soldier pose

Sequence

A series of movements done in order

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and control
Simple breathing techniques
Following movement instructions

Current Skills

Static balance poses
Flowing movement sequences
Self-assessment and reflection

Next Steps

More complex yoga sequences
Partner yoga poses
Leading warm-up activities

Milestone Indicators

Can hold tree pose for 5 seconds on each leg

Demonstrates smooth transitions between poses

Shows confidence in attempting new poses

Key Teaching Points

Always emphasise breathing awareness throughout all poses
Focus on effort and attempt rather than perfect pose achievement
Connect all movements to Roman life themes for engagement
Provide modifications to ensure all students can participate
Build self-confidence through positive reinforcement and encouragement
Maintain calm, supportive atmosphere throughout lesson
Use storytelling to maintain interest during relaxation time

Common Misconceptions

Yoga poses must be held perfectly - correct by emphasising personal progress
Breathing should be forced or changed - teach natural breath awareness
Balance poses should never wobble - explain that wobbling shows learning
Flexibility is required for yoga - demonstrate modifications for all abilities
Yoga is only for relaxation - show how it builds strength and confidence

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter pose holds, more movement variety, clear transitions between activities

dyspraxia

Simplified pose variations, extra practice time, peer support for sequencing

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of poses, quiet retreat space if needed

visual impairment

Verbal descriptions of all poses, tactile guidance for positioning, buddy system for support

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written pose cards, hand signals for instructions

physical disability

Chair-based modifications, supported poses, adapted breathing exercises

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Listening to stories, following instructions, learning new vocabulary related to Roman life

Science

Understanding body systems, breathing, balance, and how muscles work during poses

History

Learning about Roman daily life, architecture, and cultural practices through movement

PSHE

Building self-confidence, self-motivation, and resilience through physical challenges

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around room to observe all students, position near students needing support during balance poses

Observation Focus

Watch for pose alignment, breathing patterns, confidence levels, and creative engagement

Intervention Points

Step in to assist with balance, provide pose modifications, encourage effort over perfection

Demonstration Notes

Show all poses clearly, provide modifications, demonstrate with students rather than just in front of them

Verbal Cues

•'Breathe deeply and slowly'
•'It's okay to wobble - that's how we learn balance!'
•'Listen to your body and rest if you need to'
•'Every attempt makes you stronger'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 15m, clear of obstacles with soft flooring or mats

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, adequate cushioning for floor work

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Mats clean and in good condition
•No sharp edges or obstacles near activity area
•Story book and music equipment safely positioned

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during balance poses
•Wrist discomfort in downward dog
•Neck strain in bridge or inverted poses
•Dizziness from position changes

Risk Mitigation

•Wall support available for balance poses
•Modifications provided for all challenging poses
•Emphasis on listening to body and stopping if uncomfortable
•Slow transitions between positions

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during poses
•Monitor closely during balance challenges
•Watch for signs of strain or discomfort

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, contact school procedures