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Lesson 5 - Jumping for Height Techniques

Movement Mastery Adventures

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Year 2

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies like springs to jump as high as rabbits and kangaroos?

Learning Objectives

To develop proper technique when jumping for height using arm drive and takeoff positioning
To explore different jumping techniques and understand which provides maximum height
To demonstrate safe landing techniques with bent knees and forward focus

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved vertical jump technique with coordinated arm movements
Students will identify and explain the most effective jumping technique for height
Students will consistently show safe takeoff and landing positions during all jumping activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Wire Skittles

Various heights for differentiated jumping challenges

Alternative: Plastic bottles, bean bags on poles, tennis ball on tee

Cones

Spread around teaching space for jumping course

Alternative: Markers, chalk circles, rope circles

Hurdles

Adjustable heights from 15cm to 30cm for progression

Alternative: Low benches, ropes between posts, foam barriers

Shuttles

Create safe, adjustable height barriers

Alternative: Pool noodles, tape between skittles, ribbon

Key Vocabulary

Vertical jump

A jump straight up into the air from a standing position

Takeoff

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

Landing

When your feet touch the ground after jumping

Arm drive

Swinging your arms powerfully upward to help create more jumping force

Balanced position

Standing steady with feet shoulder-width apart and weight evenly distributed

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Can perform basic two-footed jumps
Understands concept of bending knees for movement
Can follow simple safety instructions

Current Skills

Coordinated arm drive for vertical jumping
Comparison of one-foot vs two-foot takeoffs
Safe landing techniques with visual focus

Next Steps

Jumping for distance with run-up approach
Advanced jumping techniques in athletics events
Combining jumping with other athletic movements

Milestone Indicators

Consistently coordinates arm swing with knee drive

Demonstrates clear preference for two-footed takeoff

Maintains forward visual focus throughout jump sequence

Key Teaching Points

Two-footed takeoff provides maximum power for jumping height
Arm drive upward significantly increases jumping height
Bent knees on takeoff and landing ensure safety and technique
Forward visual focus maintains balance and direction
Safety checks must precede all equipment-based jumping
Individual challenge levels promote confidence and success
Partner feedback develops observation and communication skills

Common Misconceptions

Thinking that jumping harder rather than better technique increases height
Believing one-foot takeoff is more powerful than two-foot takeoff
Assuming speed of approach is more important than takeoff technique
Not understanding the connection between arm movement and jumping power
Focusing on jumping distance when goal is jumping height

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short, focused activity segments, movement breaks between explanations, clear boundaries for activities, positive reinforcement system

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller steps, extra practice time, visual and verbal cues combined, simplified coordination requirements initially

autism spectrum

Clear routine with visual schedule, quiet practice area available, consistent equipment setup, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of jumping technique, tactile guidance for arm movements, buddy system for orientation

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for coaching cues, written instruction cards, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Seated jumping variations, upper body movements to simulate arm drive, modified heights or alternative challenges, wheelchair-accessible activities

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development. Giving clear feedback to partners. Following and giving instructions for safety procedures.

Maths

Measuring and comparing heights jumped. Counting repetitions and timing activities. Understanding greater than/less than when comparing jumping effectiveness.

Science

Forces and motion - how pushing with both feet creates greater force for jumping. Simple machines - body as lever system with arms providing additional force.

PSHE

Perseverance when learning new skills. Supporting others through encouragement. Personal responsibility for safety choices.

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during demonstrations, perimeter during group activities for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for coordinated arm drive, safe landing technique, and appropriate risk-taking with equipment

Intervention Points

Step in when students attempt heights beyond ability, technique breaks down, or safety awareness decreases

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show technique points clearly. Invite students to demonstrate good examples. Break down complex movements into component parts.

Verbal Cues

•'Arms like rocket boosters - UP!'
•'Bend those knees like springs!'
•'Safety check first - is my landing clear?'
•'Two feet together for power!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 20m clear space for warm-up games and jumping activities

Surface Check

Dry, even surface essential for safe landing. Avoid hard surfaces if possible - grass or sports hall ideal

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Activity skittles stable and undamaged
•Canes securely positioned but able to fall safely if contacted
•Hurdles appropriate height with safe construction
•Landing areas completely clear of obstacles

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls from unsuccessful jumps over equipment
•Collisions during group movement activities
•Overexertion from repetitive jumping
•Equipment contact during jumping attempts

Risk Mitigation

•Progressive height increases only when technique secure
•Clear landing zones maintained and checked
•Adequate spacing between activity stations
•Individual choice on jumping heights
•Constant supervision of equipment-based activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all jumping attempts
•Move between groups during equipment activities
•Monitor technique breakdown which increases injury risk

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs. Assess injury severity and provide appropriate first aid. Have alternative activity ready for student unable to participate.