Lesson 1 - Contrasting Shapes and Extension
Contrasting Movements
•Year 3
•Gymnastics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
Sign up free to access 3 complete units per month, unlimited activity library, and your personal locker.
What's included
- Complete activity instructions & timing
- Teaching tips & differentiation strategies
- Assessment guidance & success criteria
- Downloadable lessons & units
How can we create exciting sequences by combining contrasting shapes with perfect extension and flow?
Learning Objectives
- To create a sequence of 2 contrasting elements showing full extension during balance
- To demonstrate extension in shapes and produce flow in sequence
- To perform contrasting sequences using floor and low apparatus
Key Outcomes
- Students will create sequences using two contrasting shapes with clear extension
- Students will demonstrate body tension and control during balance holds
- Students will show smooth transitions creating flow between movements
Equipment & Resources Required
Spread around hall for personal space work
Alternative: Carpet squares, yoga mats
Mark safe working areas and apparatus zones
Alternative: Bean bags, spots
Key Vocabulary
Two movements or shapes that are completely different from each other
Stretching body parts to their full length to create strong, controlled shapes
Tightening muscles throughout the body to hold shapes firmly
Moving smoothly from one position to another without stopping
Sitting with straight legs extended and upper body reaching forward
Sitting with legs spread wide apart in a V-shape
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic gymnastic shapes (tuck, pike, straddle)
- Simple balance positions
- Understanding of high and low movements
Current Skills
- Contrasting shape creation
- Extension and body tension
- Flow and sequence development
Next Steps
- Complex multi-element sequences
- Advanced apparatus work
- Partner and group sequences
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Contrasting means completely different - emphasise extreme opposites
- Extension involves stretching every part of the body to its fullest
- Body tension keeps shapes strong and controlled
- Flow means moving smoothly without stopping between shapes
- Safety first - always check space and equipment before moving
- Everyone's body is different - celebrate individual achievements
- Quality over quantity - better to do fewer shapes really well
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking contrasting means only big vs small - explain width, direction, speed variations
- Believing flexibility is required - emphasise that everyone can show extension within their range
- Assuming gymnastics is only for flexible people - highlight strength, control and creativity
- Thinking apparatus makes shapes better - explain that good technique matters most
- Believing faster means better - emphasise control and quality over speed
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Regular movement breaks, clear boundaries, immediate positive feedback
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time, simplified sequences, additional physical support as needed
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedules, predictable routines, quiet space available for breaks
visual impairment
- Use verbal descriptions of shapes, tactile guidance for positioning, buddy system for support
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written shape cards for reference
physical disability
- Adapted shapes for wheelchair users, seated versions of standing activities, modified apparatus height
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Developing vocabulary for describing movement, following complex instructions, peer communication
Maths
Exploring geometric shapes, symmetry in body positions, counting beats and sequences
Science
Understanding muscle groups and body systems, forces and balance principles
Art
Creating visual patterns through body shapes, understanding contrast in design
PSHE
Building confidence, supporting others, celebrating differences and individual achievements
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central location for demonstrations, circulate during practice, position near apparatus during exploration
Observation Focus
Look for body tension, extension quality, safe apparatus use, positive peer interactions
Intervention Points
Step in for safety concerns, provide individual guidance for struggling students, facilitate positive peer interactions
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for visibility, show common mistakes and corrections, involve confident students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Stretch those fingers and toes!'
- •'Show me your strongest shape!'
- •'Flow like water between your shapes!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large hall or gymnasium, minimum 15m x 10m clear space
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, free from hazards, mats clean and intact
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Low apparatus stable and appropriate height
- •Mats positioned securely with no gaps
- •Regular equipment checks for wear and damage
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls from apparatus
- •Collisions during movement
- •Muscle strain from overstretching
Risk Mitigation
- •Supervised apparatus use at all times
- •Clear personal space boundaries maintained
- •Progressive warm-up and gentle stretching approach
- •Clear instructions before each activity
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all apparatus
- •Circulate during individual work
- •Extra attention during apparatus transitions
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required