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Lesson 4 - Rolling Techniques

Partner Sequence Creation

•

Year 3

•

Gymnastics

•

45 min

Big Question

How can different types of rolls help us create flowing gymnastics sequences that tell a story?

Learning Objectives

To develop proficiency in straight, barrel, and forward rolls with control and precision
To create sequences that demonstrate smooth transitions between movements
To understand the importance of body position and timing in gymnastics rolls

Key Outcomes

Students will perform three different types of rolls with improved technique
Students will create a sequence combining rolls, balances, and jumps with smooth transitions
Students will demonstrate understanding of safety principles in gymnastics

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

15 (1 between 2 students)

Spread evenly around space with clear pathways between

Alternative: Exercise mats, yoga mats for basic practice

Foam Wedge

1-2 (optional)

Position near teaching area for demonstrations

Alternative: Stacked small mats to create gentle slope

Springboard

1 (optional)

Cover with mat if using for assisted forward rolls

Alternative: Small bench or step (with mat covering)

Key Vocabulary

Barrel roll

A sideways roll performed in a tight tuck position, like rolling a barrel

Straight roll

A roll performed with extended body from arch to dish position

Forward roll

A roll forward over the head with hands supporting and chin tucked

Tuck position

A tight curled shape with knees drawn to chest

Arch shape

A curved backward body position lifting chest and legs

Dish shape

A curved forward body position creating a shallow bowl shape

Pike position

A folded position with straight legs and body bent at hips

Sequence

A series of movements linked together smoothly

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic gymnastics shapes (pike, tuck, straddle)
Simple balances on different body parts
Log rolls and simple sideways movements

Current Skills

Controlled barrel rolls maintaining tuck position
Straight rolls from arch to dish shapes
Forward rolls with proper chin and hand placement

Next Steps

Combining rolls with travel and direction changes
Partner sequences and mirroring
Introduction to apparatus-based rolling

Milestone Indicators

Maintains body tension throughout straight rolls

Shows clear start and finish positions in all rolls

Demonstrates smooth transitions between different movements

Key Teaching Points

Safety through correct technique - never rush rolling movements
Hand placement beside knees in forward rolls prevents injury
Chin to chest position protects neck during forward rolling
Tight tuck position throughout barrel rolls maintains control
Body extension in straight rolls develops core strength and awareness
Partner responsibility creates shared commitment to safety
Sequential skill building ensures confident progression

Common Misconceptions

Forward rolls should go over the head - correct by emphasising shoulder rolling
Faster rolling is better - emphasise control and technique over speed
Hands should go inside knees for forward rolls - demonstrate correct wide placement
All rolls are the same - clearly differentiate the three types and their purposes
Rolling is just fun with no skill required - highlight the technical precision needed
You can't get hurt doing rolls - emphasise safety awareness and proper technique

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use energetic warm-ups, offer movement breaks as needed

dyspraxia

Use simplified instructions, provide extra practice time, offer physical guidance, break complex movements into smaller components

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, offer quiet space if needed, use visual schedule cards, maintain consistent language and expectations

visual impairment

Provide clear verbal descriptions of movements, use tactile guidance for body positions, pair with supportive buddy, ensure mats have contrasting colours

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations consistently, provide written instruction cards, use clear hand signals, ensure good sight lines for lip reading

physical disability

Adapt rolls to seated or supported positions, use wedges or slopes for assistance, modify to partial movements, focus on achievable elements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following instructions, descriptive vocabulary for movements, explaining techniques to others, storytelling through movement

Maths

Counting repetitions, sequencing numbers, spatial concepts of direction and position, shape recognition and creation

Science

Forces and motion in rolling movements, body systems during exercise, gravity and momentum in gymnastics

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, building confidence through achievement, resilience when facing challenges, responsibility for others' safety

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around room perimeter to observe all pairs, position centrally for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct hand placement in forward rolls, maintained tuck in barrel rolls, body extension in straight rolls

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for incorrect head position, unsafe rolling speed, or poor spatial awareness

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility, provide multiple viewing angles, repeat key safety points consistently

Verbal Cues

•'Chin to chest!'
•'Hands wide like a basketball!'
•'Stay tight like a roly-poly!'
•'Roll over shoulders, not your head!'
•'Give your partner space!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 12m x 15m hall space with non-slip surface, adequate height clearance

Surface Check

Clean, dry, even surface free from obstacles, appropriate gymnastics flooring or suitable hard floor

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Mats checked for wear, tears, or damage before use
•Mats positioned securely with no overlapping edges
•Optional equipment (wedges, springboards) inspected and stable

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Head and neck injury from incorrect rolling technique
•Collisions between students during practice
•Falls or slips when transitioning on/off mats
•Overexertion or strain from repetitive movements

Risk Mitigation

•Clear demonstration of correct technique before practice
•Strict turn-taking system with only one student rolling at a time
•Adequate spacing between mats and practice areas
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex movements
•Immediate correction of unsafe technique
•Partner responsibility system for safety monitoring

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all mats simultaneously
•Active monitoring of rolling technique, especially forward rolls
•Quick intervention for unsafe practices
•Regular checks on student fatigue levels

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid if qualified, call for additional support if needed