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Lesson 5 - Mirror Rolls and Apparatus Movement

Rolling & Synchronized Sequences

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Year 4

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Gymnastics

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1h 9min

Big Question

How can we work together to create perfectly synchronised movements that mirror each other?

Learning Objectives

To develop the ability to mirror a partner's rolls with accurate timing
To use technical language when evaluating gymnastics performances
To create sequences that demonstrate good transitions and control

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate synchronised rolling movements with a partner
Students will provide constructive feedback using correct gymnastics terminology
Students will create flowing sequences on apparatus with mirrored movements

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

7 large mats

Arranged in clear spaces for partner work, some near apparatus

Alternative: Crash mats or yoga mats for smaller spaces

Benches

4-6 benches

Positioned at different heights and angles around the hall

Alternative: Low balance beams or improvised raised surfaces

Climbing Frames

2-3 sections

Ensure adequate landing space and supervision zones

Alternative: Portable climbing equipment or Swedish wall

Cones

12-15 cones

For warm-up boundaries and apparatus station markers

Alternative: Markers or bean bags

Stopwatch

For apparatus setup challenges and timing activities

Alternative: Phone timer or countdown app

Video Device

1 per student

Positioned to capture assessment performances clearly

Alternative: Any recording device for peer assessment

Key Vocabulary

Mirroring

Moving at exactly the same time as your partner, like looking in a mirror

Synchronisation

Moving together at precisely the same moment

Transition

The smooth movement from one skill or position to another

Front Support

Press-up position with straight arms and body

Technical Language

Special gymnastics words that describe movements and positions accurately

Apparatus

Large gymnastics equipment like benches, mats, and climbing frames

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic rolling techniques (log, egg, dish rolls)
Understanding of apparatus safety rules
Simple partner work and cooperation skills
Basic gymnastics positions and balances

Current Skills

Mirroring movements with accurate timing
Using technical language for evaluation
Creating sequences with smooth transitions
Peer assessment and feedback skills

Next Steps

Advanced partner sequences with matching and contrasting
Canon and unison movement patterns
Complex apparatus work with multiple levels
Leading warm-ups and coaching others

Milestone Indicators

Partners move in perfect synchronisation for 3+ consecutive rolls

Uses 5+ technical gymnastics terms accurately in peer assessment

Creates sequences lasting 45+ seconds with clear beginning, middle, end

Key Teaching Points

Mirroring requires exact timing - use counting and clear signals
Technical language enhances learning - model and encourage specific vocabulary
Safety is paramount with apparatus - maintain rules consistently
Partner work develops cooperation - facilitate positive partnerships
Sequences need planning - encourage discussion before practice
Self-assessment builds reflection - create honest evaluation opportunities
Strength work should be progressive - adapt to individual abilities

Common Misconceptions

Mirroring means doing the same thing - clarify it means doing it at exactly the same time
Technical language is just fancy words - explain it helps precise communication
Apparatus work is just playing - emphasise skill development and safety
Self-assessment doesn't matter - show how it supports learning and improvement
Stronger is always better - focus on control and technique over power

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Regular position changes, clear boundaries, frequent positive feedback, movement breaks built in

dyspraxia

Simplified mirroring patterns initially, extra practice time, larger apparatus for easier coordination

autism spectrum

Clear routine for apparatus setup, predictable structure, quiet space available if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use verbal cues for mirroring, tactile guidance for apparatus, clear verbal descriptions of movements

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations emphasised, written instructions available, partner support for communication

physical disability

Modified apparatus heights, seated alternatives for floor work, adapted strength challenges

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, descriptive language, speaking and listening during peer assessment

Maths

Counting repetitions, timing sequences, measuring apparatus heights, spatial awareness and geometry

Science

Forces and gravity in balances, muscle groups in strength work, coordination and nervous system

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, resilience in challenges, respect and encouragement, honest self-assessment

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position for warm-up, circulate during partner work, apparatus station supervision for safety

Observation Focus

Watch for timing accuracy in mirroring, technical language use, safe apparatus handling throughout

Intervention Points

Step in when safety rules broken, support struggling partnerships, guide technical language development

Demonstration Notes

Use confident students for mirroring demos, model technical language use clearly, show apparatus safety consistently

Verbal Cues

•'Count together - 1, 2, 3, go!'
•'Use your gymnastics words!'
•'What technical language can describe that movement?'
•'Safety first - check your apparatus!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or gymnasium minimum 15m x 20m with additional height for apparatus

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All apparatus checked for stability and damage before use
•Mats positioned correctly for landing areas
•Apparatus carried by pairs and positioned safely
•Emergency procedures known for apparatus accidents

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during mirrored movements
•Falls from apparatus
•Improper lifting of heavy equipment
•Overexertion during strength challenges

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing between pairs during floor work
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Constant supervision during apparatus work
•Strength challenges adapted to individual ability
•Safety rules reinforced regularly

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all apparatus stations
•Circulate actively during partner work
•Monitor apparatus setup and pack away closely
•Watch for fatigue during strength activities

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, first aid as required, clear area if needed