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Lesson 5 - Group Shape Sequences

Group Sync & Shape Contrast

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Year 4

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Gymnastics

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Big Question

How can we create exciting gymnastic sequences that show both teamwork and individual creativity?

Learning Objectives

To work effectively in a group to compose and perform gymnastic sequences
To demonstrate understanding of contrasting and matching shapes and movements
To evaluate performances using appropriate technical vocabulary

Key Outcomes

Students will collaboratively create sequences featuring contrasting and matching elements
Students will demonstrate improved communication and negotiation skills
Students will use technical language to assess and improve performances

Equipment & Resources Required

Large Gym Mats

6-8 mats

Distributed around apparatus stations for safe landing areas

Alternative: Smaller mats placed together, carpet squares

Gymnastics Mats

6 stations (benches, boxes, mats)

Set up 6 different apparatus stations around hall perimeter

Alternative: Chairs, tables with supervision, raised platforms

Stopwatch

For timing apparatus setup challenges

Alternative: Phone timer, wall clock

Video Device

1 (tablet/phone)

For recording peer assessments and teacher evaluation

Alternative: None needed if unavailable

Key Vocabulary

Contrasting

Movements or shapes that are deliberately different to create visual interest

Matching

Movements or shapes performed in unison or similarity by group members

Sequence

A series of connected gymnastic movements performed in order

Formation

The arrangement or pattern of students within their group

Transition

The movement that connects one gymnastic element to the next

Canon

When group members perform the same movement at different times

Unison

When all group members perform movements at exactly the same time

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic gymnastic shapes and balances
Individual sequence creation
Simple partner work and trust exercises

Current Skills

Group collaboration and communication
Contrasting and matching movement concepts
Technical vocabulary for evaluation

Next Steps

Complex group apparatus work
Advanced composition techniques
Performance confidence and presentation skills

Milestone Indicators

Groups negotiate roles and responsibilities effectively

Sequences clearly demonstrate contrasting and matching elements

Students use technical language confidently in assessment

Key Teaching Points

Contrasting and matching are fundamental composition concepts that create visual interest
Group work requires communication, negotiation and compromise skills
Technical vocabulary should be used consistently throughout evaluation
Apparatus work amplifies the need for clear safety procedures and rules
Smooth transitions are as important as the gymnastic elements themselves
Formation changes should enhance rather than distract from sequence content
Peer assessment develops critical thinking and observation skills

Common Misconceptions

Believing contrasting only refers to high/low levels - it includes speed, direction, and shape
Thinking matching means everyone does exactly the same - timing can vary (canon vs unison)
Assuming apparatus sequences need to be complex - simple, clear work is often more effective
Focusing only on individual skills rather than group coordination and communication
Believing good gymnastics is only about physical ability - composition and evaluation are equally important

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter composition periods, physical movement breaks, clear task boundaries

dyspraxia

Simplified sequences, more practice time, partner support for complex coordination

autism spectrum

Clear structure for group work, visual sequence cards, defined roles within groups

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of contrasting/matching, tactile feedback for shapes, buddy support for apparatus work

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of concepts, hand signals for timing, written instructions for sequence requirements

physical disability

Modified apparatus or floor alternatives, adapted support positions, focus on achievable movements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, communication skills in group work, descriptive language for evaluation

Maths

Counting beats for timing, geometric shapes in formations, symmetry in matching movements

Science

Balance and forces in support positions, muscle groups in different gymnastic positions

Geography

Spatial awareness, formation patterns, pathways and directions

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, giving constructive feedback, leadership skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during demonstrations, circulate during group work, elevated view during apparatus work

Observation Focus

Group communication skills, technical accuracy in sequences, safe apparatus use

Intervention Points

Step in if groups struggling with cooperation, unsafe apparatus use, or lack of progress

Demonstration Notes

Use students to demonstrate good examples, show contrasting concepts clearly, emphasise safety in apparatus work

Verbal Cues

•'Show me clear contrasting shapes!'
•'Can you match your timing perfectly?'
•'Use smooth transitions between levels!'
•'Remember apparatus safety rules!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall minimum 15m x 20m with high ceiling for apparatus work

Surface Check

Non-slip, even surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All apparatus checked for stability before use
•Mats correctly positioned under and around apparatus
•Apparatus carried in pairs with proper lifting technique

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls from apparatus
•Collisions during group work
•Muscle strain from support positions
•Apparatus handling injuries

Risk Mitigation

•Constant supervision during apparatus work
•Clear apparatus rules enforced consistently
•Adequate spacing between groups during practice
•Progressive warm-up for support positions

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all apparatus stations simultaneously
•Circulate during group composition time
•Monitor apparatus setup and pack away procedures

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, clear area if needed