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Lesson 5 - Backwards & Sideways Movements

Pathways & Directions

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Year 2

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Gymnastics

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Big Question

How can we create beautiful movement sequences that flow backwards and sideways whilst working perfectly in time with a partner?

Learning Objectives

To develop the ability to travel backwards and sideways as part of a sequence
To link movements together smoothly and with control
To understand and demonstrate mirroring with a partner in synchrony

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to perform backwards and sideways travelling movements with increasing confidence
Students will create and perform sequences that link movements together well
Students will work in synchrony with a partner using mirroring techniques

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

5-6 different stations

Spread evenly around hall with 2m spacing between each mat

Alternative: Carpet tiles, yoga mats for floor work

Large dice

Keep with teacher for final activity

Alternative: Number cards 1-6, spinner, or call out numbers

Stopwatch

For timing apparatus setup challenge

Alternative: Phone timer, classroom clock

Digital Cameras

1 (optional)

For recording peer assessment conversations

Alternative: Not essential for lesson delivery

Key Vocabulary

Sequence

A series of movements performed one after another in a flowing pattern

Mirroring

Copying exactly what your partner does at exactly the same time

Synchrony

Moving at exactly the same time and speed as your partner

Backwards travelling

Moving from one place to another whilst facing forward but moving backwards

Sideways travelling

Moving from side to side whilst maintaining body control

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic rolling forwards and sideways
Simple balancing skills
Following instructions and working safely

Current Skills

Travelling backwards and sideways
Linking movements into sequences
Mirroring and working in synchrony

Next Steps

More complex gymnastic sequences
Partner lifting and supporting
Performance skills and presentation

Milestone Indicators

Smooth backwards rolls without stopping

Sideways movements with control and flow

Perfect timing with partner throughout sequence

Key Teaching Points

Backwards and sideways movements must be controlled and safe at all times
Partnership working requires clear communication and mutual support
Timing and synchrony develop through practice and counting together
Apparatus work demands strict adherence to safety rules and procedures
Sequences should show smooth linking between different movement elements
Assessment focuses on personal progress as well as technical achievement
Creative expression should be encouraged within safe movement parameters

Common Misconceptions

Backwards rolling is just forward rolling in reverse - actually requires different technique
Mirroring means doing the same movement - it means copying exactly like a reflection
Faster movement sequences are better - control and flow are more important than speed
Apparatus work is about showing off - it's about applying skills safely and creatively
Only perfect performers can give feedback - everyone can observe and help others improve

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear movement boundaries, regular positive feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Simpler movement patterns, extra practice time, larger equipment for easier manipulation

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet zones available during partner work

visual impairment

Use bright coloured mats, clear verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for apparatus work

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations for all skills, hand signals for timing, written instruction cards

physical disability

Seated/supported versions of movements, modified apparatus at appropriate heights, alternative rolling techniques

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting beats for timing, understanding contact points in balances, spatial awareness and directions

Science

Forces and balance in gymnastics, understanding body mechanics and momentum in backwards movements

Music

Understanding rhythm and timing for synchrony, keeping steady beats in sequences

PSHE

Partnership working, giving and receiving feedback constructively, building confidence and resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move frequently between groups, position for clear view of all students during apparatus work

Observation Focus

Watch for backwards/sideways movement quality, partnership cooperation, safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in for unsafe movements, support struggling partnerships, assist with apparatus spotting

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, slow demonstrations for all new skills, emphasise safety in all apparatus work

Verbal Cues

•'Control and smooth movements!'
•'Watch your partner carefully!'
•'Safety first on apparatus!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall minimum 15m x 20m clear of obstacles, gymnastics apparatus storage accessible

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface suitable for rolling and gymnastics movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All gymnastics apparatus checked for stability and correct assembly
•Mats positioned with adequate spacing and no overlaps
•Large dice checked for soft construction and safe rolling

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during warm-up animal movements
•Improper technique in backwards rolling causing neck strain
•Falls from apparatus during backwards/sideways movements
•Equipment handling injuries during setup/pack-away

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all movement activities
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex movements
•Adequate supervision ratios during apparatus work
•Specific safety rules reinforced for apparatus use

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during free movement
•Close supervision during backwards rolling attempts
•Spotting available for challenging apparatus movements
•Active monitoring during equipment handling

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear procedures for injuries during gymnastics