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Lesson 3 - Jump, Roll, Balance Sequences

Creating Flowing Gymnastics Sequences Through Linking

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Year 2

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Gymnastics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we move like a champion gymnast by linking our movements together?

Learning Objectives

To apply 'champion gymnastics' principles to perform flowing movement sequences
To explore different ways to link jumps, rolls and balances together
To create personal movement patterns that flow smoothly from one movement to the next

Key Outcomes

Students will perform a sequence of jump, roll, balance with smooth transitions
Students will understand what 'linking' means in gymnastics
Students will create their own movement ideas that flow into the sequence

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

1 per 2-3 students (15 mats)

Spread mats around space with clear pathways between

Alternative: Carpet tiles, yoga mats for smaller movements

Cones

8-10

Mark safe boundaries around mat areas

Alternative: Beanbags, markers

Key Vocabulary

Linking

Connecting movements together so they flow smoothly from one to the next

Champion movements

High quality movements performed with control, precision and good technique

Sequence

A series of movements performed one after another in a planned order

Flow

Moving smoothly from one position to another without stopping

Transition

The movement that connects one skill to the next

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic forward roll technique
Simple balance positions on different body parts
Jumping and landing safely

Current Skills

Linking movements together with smooth transitions
Creating flowing sequences from jump to roll to balance
Understanding 'champion' movement qualities

Next Steps

Performing longer sequences with multiple links
Adding apparatus to sequences
Creating partner sequences with linking movements

Milestone Indicators

Smooth transition from jump to roll without pause

Controlled finish in a clear balance position

Consistent quality throughout the sequence

Key Teaching Points

Linking means connecting movements smoothly without stopping
Champion movements show control, precision and flow
Sinking down is the bridge between jumping and rolling
Safety in rolling means chin tucked and shoulders taking weight
Personal creativity makes sequences unique and special
Quality is more important than complexity in gymnastics
Turn-taking and respect create a safe learning environment

Common Misconceptions

Thinking linking means doing movements quickly - actually it means smooth flow
Believing more complex movements are always better - quality over difficulty
Assuming all sequences must look the same - celebrate individual creativity
Thinking you must be naturally good at gymnastics - everyone can improve with practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use shorter practice segments, clear boundaries with cones, regular movement breaks, immediate feedback

dyspraxia

Break sequences into smaller parts, provide extra practice time, use physical prompts, slower demonstrations

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedules, consistent mat positions, quiet zones available, predictable routines

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of movements, provide physical guidance for mat placement, use bright coloured mats for contrast

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for movement cues

physical disability

Modify movements to seated or supported positions, focus on arm movements for linking, adapt balance challenges

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development with gymnastics terms, following and giving instructions

Maths

Counting seconds for balance holds, sequencing numbers, understanding patterns in movement

Science

Forces and motion in jumping and rolling, balance and stability concepts

Art

Creating sequences as movement compositions, expressing creativity through movement

PSHE

Personal achievement, working with others, building confidence and self-esteem

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space to observe all groups, position for clear view of rolling technique

Observation Focus

Watch for smooth linking, proper rolling technique, and safe practice habits

Intervention Points

Step in if rolling technique is unsafe, help with movement connections, ensure turn-taking

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate sequence multiple times, emphasise the linking elements, show different starting movements

Verbal Cues

•'Sink down slowly'
•'Chin to chest for rolling'
•'Hold that balance like a statue'
•'Make it flow like water'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 12m clear space, suitable for mat placement

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats are clean and in good condition
•Ensure mats lie flat with no curled edges
•Position mats with adequate space around each

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students on mats
•Poor rolling technique causing neck/head injury
•Falls from balances or jumps

Risk Mitigation

•Clear turn-taking system with one person per mat
•Proper rolling instruction emphasising shoulders not head
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Adequate supervision and spotting when needed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe rolling technique clearly
•Monitor mat areas for safe turn-taking
•Watch for fatigue affecting movement quality

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid and support