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Big Question

How can we use our bodies like powerful springs to jump further and with more control?

Learning Objectives

  • To demonstrate competent jumping using a variety of techniques and styles
  • To integrate a controlled run-up approach to enhance jumping distance
  • To apply knowledge of biomechanics to improve jumping performance

Key Outcomes

  • Students will demonstrate controlled jumping from static and running positions
  • Students will show understanding of how run-up speed affects jumping distance
  • Students will perform safe warm-up activities and sustain effort throughout the session

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones
30-40

Use for marking landing points and creating boundary lines

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines

Measuring Tapes
2-3

Optional for recording distances

Alternative: Metre rulers, chalk marks

Playground chalk
4-6 pieces

For marking start lines and boundaries

Alternative: Masking tape, rope

Key Vocabulary

Take-off

The moment when both feet leave the ground to begin a jump

Landing

The controlled contact with the ground after jumping, ideally on both feet

Run-up

A controlled approach run before jumping to build momentum

Standing jump

Jumping from a stationary position without any approach run

Momentum

The force that keeps moving objects in motion, helping jumpers travel further

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic jumping with two feet together
  • Understanding of taking off and landing safely
  • Experience with simple warm-up activities

Current Skills

  • Jumping competently in various ways
  • Coordinating run-up with take-off
  • Understanding biomechanics of jumping

Next Steps

  • Advanced jumping techniques (hop, step, jump)
  • Measuring and recording jumping distances
  • Competitive jumping events

Milestone Indicators

1
Consistent two-foot landing with balance
2
Smooth transition from run-up to take-off
3
Ability to explain how to improve jumping distance

Key Teaching Points

  • Two-foot take-off and landing is essential for safety and technique development
  • Arm swing coordination significantly impacts jumping distance and control
  • Progressive approach speed (not maximum) gives best distance and control
  • Partner work develops measurement skills and supportive relationships
  • Game applications reinforce technique while adding excitement and challenge

Common Misconceptions

  • Faster run-up always means longer jump - teach optimal speed instead
  • Landing on one foot is acceptable - emphasise two-foot landing for safety
  • Jumping is just about leg strength - highlight whole-body coordination
  • Distance is more important than technique - praise form and improvement
  • Warm-up is optional - explain injury prevention and performance benefits

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, extra movement opportunities during explanations
dyspraxia
  • Broken-down technique demonstrations, extra practice time, simplified coordination patterns
autism spectrum
  • Clear routine structure, visual schedule displayed, quiet area available for breaks
visual impairment
  • Use brightly coloured cones, verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
  • Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for game instructions, written instruction cards
physical disability
  • Seated jumping variations, modified distances, alternative measurement roles

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following instructions carefully, describing techniques and improvements, listening skills

Maths

Measuring jumping distances, comparing lengths, understanding greater than/less than concepts

Science

Forces and motion, understanding gravity and momentum, how muscles work during exercise

PSHE

Setting personal goals, celebrating others' achievements, perseverance when facing challenges

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between jumping areas to observe technique, position for clear demonstration visibility

Observation Focus

Two-foot take-off and landing, controlled movements, partner cooperation, listening during games

Intervention Points

Step in if technique becomes unsafe, students showing frustration, or partnership issues arise

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate jumping techniques yourself, exaggerate arm movements for visibility, show both correct and improved techniques

Verbal Cues
  • 'Spring like a kangaroo!'
  • 'Arms help you fly!'
  • 'Land like a gymnast - soft and controlled!'
  • 'Listen first, then react!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 30m with additional run-up space

Surface Check

Non-slip, level surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Cones placed securely and visible
  • Landing areas clear of hard objects
  • Boundary lines clearly marked and appropriate

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Collision between students during jumping activities
  • Overstretch or strain from inadequate warm-up
  • Falls due to loss of balance on landing
  • Fatigue affecting technique and safety
Risk Mitigation
  • Adequate spacing between jumping lanes
  • Progressive warm-up with dynamic movements
  • Emphasis on controlled landings throughout
  • Regular technique breaks and hydration reminders

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position to observe all jumping activities simultaneously
  • Monitor technique deterioration due to fatigue
  • Ensure safe spacing maintained during partner work
Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess student, provide appropriate first aid, adapt activities for remaining students