Lesson 2 - Jumping Skills & Strength
Power, Endurance & Teamwork
•Year 2
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use our leg muscles to jump higher and further like powerful penguins?
Learning Objectives
- To develop jumping skills through penguin-themed games and activities
- To build leg strength through targeted strength-building exercises
- To understand the connection between strength training and improved jumping performance
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved jumping technique using two feet to two feet
- Students will complete strength-building activities with proper form and control
- Students will participate cooperatively in team jumping games
Equipment & Resources Required
Space benches around hall for circuit work
Alternative: Low boxes, sturdy platforms, or steps
Check ropes are appropriate length for students
Alternative: Long ribbon, elastic bands, or PE ropes
Balls should be grippable between knees
Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls, or small playground balls
Mark team areas and boundaries
Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk lines
Key Vocabulary
Jumping where you take off and land using both feet at the same time
The number of times you repeat an exercise
When your shin bone is straight up and down, not leaning forward
When your legs are positioned one in front and one behind your body
How far you can move your body parts during an exercise
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 turns and following instructions
- Experience with simple partner activities
Current Skills
- Controlled jumping with proper landing technique
- Basic strength-building exercises
- Cooperative team game participation
Next Steps
- Single-leg jumping and hopping patterns
- More complex strength exercises
- Competitive jumping activities with measurement
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always emphasise two feet to two feet jumping technique
- Focus on soft, controlled landings rather than height
- Build strength gradually with proper form over speed
- Use penguin theme to maintain engagement and context
- Encourage effort and improvement over competition
- Ensure adequate rest between strength exercises
- Celebrate teamwork and sportsmanship in games
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking single-foot jumping is acceptable in this lesson
- Believing that jumping higher is always better than controlled jumping
- Assuming strength exercises should be performed quickly
- Not understanding the connection between strength training and jumping improvement
- Thinking dropped balls in the game represent failure rather than learning opportunities
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Regular activity changes, clear boundaries, positive movement outlets
dyspraxia
- Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, larger equipment options
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule, quiet reflection spaces available
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls, verbal cues for all movements, buddy system for navigation
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations, hand signals for start/stop, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Modified jumping (step-ups), seated strength exercises, adapted ball sizes
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting repetitions, measuring jump distances, understanding sets and numbers
Science
Learning about animal adaptations, understanding how muscles work, forces in jumping
Geography
Discussing penguin habitats, polar regions, and environmental adaptations
PSHE
Teamwork, perseverance, celebrating effort over outcome, supporting others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Rotate between activity stations to provide feedback and ensure safety
Observation Focus
Look for proper jumping technique, safe landings, and positive team interactions
Intervention Points
Step in when technique is unsafe, students are struggling with equipment, or negative behaviour occurs
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements to show correct technique, contrast good and poor examples
Verbal Cues
- •'Two feet together!'
- •'Land like a fairy!'
- •'Penguin power!'
- •'Support your teammates!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 20m hall space with clear sight lines
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, free from water or debris, adequate cushioning for jumping
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Benches stable and appropriate height (30-40cm for Year 2)
- •Balls inflated correctly and free from damage
- •Ropes checked for fraying or damage
- •Cones positioned to avoid trip hazards
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls from bench jumping
- •Collisions during team game
- •Muscle strain from strength exercises
- •Trips over equipment or other students
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise step-down rather than jump-down from benches
- •Clear pathways between activities with adequate spacing
- •Progressive skill building from floor to equipment
- •Constant supervision and technique correction
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all activity areas
- •Rotate between strength stations regularly
- •Monitor fatigue levels and provide rest breaks
- •Ensure proper technique before increasing intensity
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if needed