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Big Question

How can we use our whole body to jump higher, further, and with better control?

Learning Objectives

  • Develop different jumping techniques including two-foot jumps, hops, and leaps
  • Understand how arm movement and leg bend contribute to jumping performance
  • Apply jumping skills safely in game situations with control and awareness

Key Outcomes

  • Students will demonstrate at least three different jumping techniques with improving control
  • Students will explain one way to improve their jumping height or distance
  • Students will show awareness of space and safety when jumping around others

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones
30-40

Place in lines 15m apart for warm-up, scattered for jumping practice

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk circles

Mats
20-30

Distributed around activity area for jumping targets

Alternative: Hoops, cones, rope circles

Hoops
12-16

Arranged in relay lines with varied spacing

Alternative: Large floor spots, rope circles

Key Vocabulary

Two-foot jump

Taking off and landing with both feet together

Hop

Taking off and landing on the same foot

Leap

Taking off from one foot and landing on the opposite foot

Elevation

The height achieved when jumping into the air

Controlled landing

Landing softly with balance and stability

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic running and stopping with control
  • Simple two-foot jumping from standing position
  • Following instructions in physical activities

Current Skills

  • Different jumping techniques (two-foot, hop, leap)
  • Using arms for elevation and balance
  • Spatial awareness during dynamic activities

Next Steps

  • Combining jumping with other athletics movements
  • Measuring and comparing jump distances
  • Learning specific athletics jumping events

Milestone Indicators

1
Consistent controlled landings in all jump types
2
Ability to switch between different jumping techniques
3
Understanding of technique points for improvement

Key Teaching Points

  • Knee bend is essential for powerful takeoff and safe landing
  • Arms contribute significantly to jumping height and balance
  • Different jumping types serve different athletic purposes
  • Controlled landings prevent injury and improve technique
  • Spatial awareness is crucial during dynamic activities
  • Practice and repetition lead to skill improvement
  • Encouragement and teamwork enhance learning experience

Common Misconceptions

  • Children thinking jumping is only about leg strength - emphasise whole body coordination
  • Belief that landing hard shows more effort - teach soft, controlled landings
  • Confusion between hop and jump - reinforce single foot vs both feet concepts
  • Assumption that faster is always better - prioritise technique over speed
  • Fear of attempting weaker foot hopping - normalize wobbles as part of learning

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries marked, regular positive feedback
dyspraxia
  • Break down movements into smaller steps, extra practice time, use of wall support
autism spectrum
  • Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet retreat space available
visual impairment
  • Use brightly coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
  • Visual demonstrations emphasised, hand signals for instructions, written instruction cards
physical disability
  • Seated jumping exercises, arm movements only, modified distances and heights

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, learning new vocabulary, explaining techniques

Maths

Counting jumps and movements, measuring distances, sequencing activities

Science

Understanding forces in jumping, muscle groups used, effects of exercise on body

PSHE

Personal achievement, resilience when challenged, supporting teammates

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all children. Position near active jumping areas during skill practice.

Observation Focus

Watch for correct takeoff and landing technique. Monitor spatial awareness during movement.

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe landings. Provide individual support for technique development.

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show technique clearly. Demonstrate both correct and incorrect examples for contrast.

Verbal Cues
  • 'Bend those knees!'
  • 'Push the ground away!'
  • 'Land like a ninja - soft and quiet!'
  • 'Arms up for height!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear area for dynamic activities and relay races

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards. Indoor hall or outdoor hard court suitable.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Hoops and markers placed with adequate spacing
  • Cones checked for stability and no sharp edges
  • Floor spots secured to prevent slipping

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Collisions during dynamic movement
  • Hard landings causing injury
  • Fatigue leading to poor technique
  • Overexertion in competitive activities
Risk Mitigation
  • Clear boundaries and movement rules established
  • Emphasis on controlled landings throughout
  • Regular rest periods and hydration breaks
  • Monitor children for signs of tiredness

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position for maximum visibility during dynamic activities
  • Active monitoring of landing technique
  • Watch for unsafe behaviour during relays
Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs. Basic first aid available. Clear evacuation routes maintained.