Core Strength & Sequences
•Year 4
•Gymnastics
•Spaced 2 metres apart around hall perimeter and centre
Alternative: Yoga mats or carpet squares
Set up in straight lines for cartwheel practice - spots A, B, C, D, E
Alternative: Laminated paper circles, bean bags
For students who need additional support during shoulder stands
Alternative: Partner support
A balance position where weight is supported on shoulders with legs extended vertically
Muscles working together to create a firm, controlled body position
Placing hands down one after the other in order during cartwheel
Moving body weight smoothly from one body part to another
Body bent at hips with legs straight and together
Rocking movement that flows from lying to shoulder stand and back to standing
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Angles in body positions (90-degree shoulder stand), counting sequences in cartwheel progressions, measuring distances for spot placement
Forces and motion in rocking movements, momentum and energy transfer in candle rocks, body systems working together for balance
Spatial awareness and direction in cartwheel lines, understanding of rotation and linear movement patterns
Resilience when learning challenging skills, cooperation and communication with partners, celebrating effort over outcome
Move actively between pairs, positioning to see all shoulder stand attempts from side view to check shoulder/neck placement
Watch for: weight distribution in shoulder stands, sequential hand placement in cartwheels, partner cooperation and safety
Step in immediately if: weight goes onto neck in shoulder stands, cartwheel hand placement is unsafe, students attempt skills beyond their ability
Always demonstrate skills slowly first, then at full speed. Use side-on position for shoulder stands to show proper shoulder/hip alignment clearly
Large hall minimum 15m x 20m with height clearance of 3m+ for overhead movements
Non-slip, even surface free from obstacles. Mats should lie flat without wrinkles
Stop activity immediately for any neck/head concerns. Have students sit down for any injury assessment. Ensure clear path to first aid if needed
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