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Lesson 10 - Gliding and Arm Action Development

Foundations & Water Confidence

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Year 2

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Swimming

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35 min

Big Question

How can we combine gliding and arm movements to become stronger swimmers?

Learning Objectives

To develop the pulling arm action for effective propulsion
To begin developing gliding technique on front
To maintain body position and streamlined shape during water activities

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved arm pulling technique with cupped hands
Students will achieve consistent gliding position with straight body shape
Students will combine gliding and swimming movements to travel across the pool

Equipment & Resources Required

Pool noodles

12 (1 per student)

Distributed around pool edge before lesson begins

Alternative: Kickboards, float aids

Arm Discs

6 pairs (optional)

Available for students needing additional arm support

Alternative: None required

Tag Belts

4 (optional)

For students requiring extra flotation support

Alternative: Additional noodles

Key Vocabulary

Gliding

Moving through water in a streamlined position using momentum from push-off

Streamlined

A straight, narrow body shape that moves efficiently through water

Pulling action

Using arms to move water backwards to propel body forwards

Push-off

Using legs to push against the pool wall to create forward momentum

Cupped hands

Slightly curved hand position that catches more water when swimming

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic water confidence and entry/exit skills
Floating with support equipment
Simple kicking movements in water

Current Skills

Coordinated arm pulling action
Front gliding from wall push-off
Combining gliding with swimming movements

Next Steps

Developing rhythmic breathing techniques
Extending gliding distances
Introduction to basic stroke cycles

Milestone Indicators

Maintains straight body shape during glide for 3+ seconds

Uses cupped hands to pull water effectively

Transitions from glide to swimming without stopping

Key Teaching Points

Safety first - constant supervision and clear boundaries essential
Body position is crucial for effective gliding - emphasise straight, streamlined shape
Arm technique requires cupped hands and full range pulling motion
Build confidence gradually through supported practice before independent attempts
Use positive reinforcement to encourage personal improvement rather than comparison
Ensure all students can access learning through appropriate differentiation
Connect gliding skills to future swimming stroke development

Common Misconceptions

Faster arm movements are always better - emphasise technique over speed
Gliding is just about pushing hard - body position is equally important
Arms should be straight during swimming - show importance of bent elbow recovery
Looking forward helps with direction - explain benefits of neutral head position
Competition focus - emphasise personal improvement and skill development

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries, immediate positive feedback

dyspraxia

Additional practice time, simplified movement patterns, extra adult support for coordination

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet practice areas available

visual impairment

Use bright coloured equipment, clear verbal instructions, tactile guidance for body positioning

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for underwater communication, written instruction cards

physical disability

Adapted entry/exit methods, additional flotation support, modified techniques as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring gliding distances, comparing personal improvements, counting arm cycles

Science

Understanding forces and motion in water, buoyancy concepts, body systems during exercise

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness in water, understanding of water environments

PSHE

Personal safety around water, resilience and determination, supporting others' learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position in teaching area with clear view of all students and easy access to pool edge

Observation Focus

Body position during gliding attempts; Arm technique and hand positioning; Safe entry and exit procedures; Signs of fatigue or discomfort

Intervention Points

["If students show unsafe behaviour near pool edge", "When technique significantly impacts safety or progress", "If students appear cold or overly fatigued"]

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements when demonstrating. Show techniques both in water and on deck for maximum understanding.

Verbal Cues

•'Body like an arrow!'
•'Push hard with your legs!'
•'Cup your hands to catch the water!'
•'Smooth and strong movements!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Swimming pool with shallow teaching area where all students can stand comfortably

Surface Check

Pool water clear and at appropriate temperature (29-30°C for beginners)

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check noodles have no tears or damage
•Ensure swimming aids are appropriate size for students
•Verify all equipment is pool-appropriate and hygienic

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Slipping on wet pool deck
•Students going out of depth
•Collision during gliding activities
•Fatigue from extended water activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for teaching area
•Adequate spacing between students during gliding
•Constant supervision with qualified swimming instructor
•Emergency equipment accessible poolside

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Ensure additional adult support for less confident swimmers
•Monitor students for signs of cold or fatigue

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, ensure student safety, appropriate first aid response, emergency action plan activation if required