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Lesson 2 - Round-off & Balance Skills

Dynamic Transitions & Asymmetry

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Year 5

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Gymnastics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we combine powerful, controlled round-offs with creative asymmetrical balances to create dynamic gymnastics sequences?

Learning Objectives

Refine round-off technique with focus on extension and controlled landing
Create and perform three different asymmetrical balances with a partner
Link round-off movements with asymmetrical balances in a controlled sequence

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved round-off technique with controlled flight and landing
Students will create and perform three distinct asymmetrical balances showing creativity and control
Students will successfully link round-off and balance elements in a smooth sequence

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

8-10 mats

Arrange in strips with adequate landing space beyond each mat

Alternative: Exercise mats or crash mats

Coloured Cones

12-16 cones

Use different colours to divide practice areas clearly

Alternative: Bean bags or markers

Balls

22 bean bags

Alternative markers for area division if cones unavailable

Alternative: Spot markers or tennis balls

Key Vocabulary

Round-off

A cartwheel-like movement where both feet land together, turning the body to face the starting direction

Asymmetrical

When both sides of the body are in different positions or shapes

Flight

The moment when the gymnast is completely airborne during the round-off

Extension

Stretching limbs fully to create long, straight lines in gymnastics positions

Rebound

The natural bounce that occurs after landing, which can be controlled and used

Transition

The smooth movement from one gymnastics element to another

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic cartwheel technique and hand placement
Understanding of symmetry and asymmetry concepts
Basic balancing skills on different body parts
Safe landing techniques from height

Current Skills

Round-off technique with controlled flight and landing
Creating asymmetrical balances with partners
Linking movements into short sequences
Understanding relationship between speed and height in round-offs

Next Steps

Advanced round-off variations and combinations
Complex partner sequences with multiple elements
Incorporating apparatus into sequences
Developing personal gymnastics routines

Milestone Indicators

Legs come together cleanly at top of round-off

Controlled landing facing starting direction

Clear asymmetrical shapes maintained for 3+ seconds

Smooth transitions between elements

Key Teaching Points

Hand placement and turning action is crucial for successful round-off
Legs must come together at the top for proper technique and safety
Asymmetrical means both sides of the body are different, not just unequal
Use the natural rebound from landing to flow into next movement
Partner communication is essential for creating effective balances
Quality of individual elements is more important than sequence complexity
Controlled power is better than uncontrolled speed in round-offs

Common Misconceptions

Round-off is just a cartwheel - emphasise the turning hand and landing direction
Asymmetrical means unbalanced - clarify that both sides are different but still controlled
Faster run-up always means better round-off - focus on controlled power over speed
Only gymnasts can do round-offs - encourage all students that technique can be learned progressively
Asymmetrical balances are easier than symmetrical - highlight the creativity and control required

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short practice bursts with frequent changes, clear boundaries marked, immediate feedback and praise

dyspraxia

Slower progression through skills, extra practice time, simplified sequences, peer support

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedules, quiet spaces available, predictable routine with advance warning of changes

visual impairment

Use tactile markers for hand placement, provide verbal descriptions of all movements, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, vibration signals for timing

physical disability

Seated balance variations, upper body only movements, adapted hand placement on raised surfaces

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Identifying symmetry and asymmetry in shapes, understanding angles in body positions, measuring distances in round-off flight

Science

Forces and motion in round-off technique, gravity affecting landing, balance and centre of gravity in asymmetrical positions

Art

Creating asymmetrical compositions, understanding balance in design, appreciating form and movement

PSHE

Cooperation with partners, giving and receiving feedback constructively, perseverance when learning difficult skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space to observe all students, position near round-off practice areas for safety

Observation Focus

Watch for correct hand placement, leg positioning, controlled landings, and partner cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with technique, unsafe practice, or partner communication issues

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate all skills clearly and slowly first, repeat demonstrations as needed, use student demonstrations to reinforce learning

Verbal Cues

•'Legs together like a pencil!'
•'Turn that hand to point toward your other hand!'
•'Land together, both feet at the same time!'
•'Show me both sides different in your balance!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space minimum 15m x 12m, or gymnasium with adequate ceiling height

Surface Check

Ensure floor surface is clean, dry and non-slip, check for any obstacles or hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats are in good condition with no tears or worn areas
•Ensure mats lay flat with no curled edges that could cause trips
•Verify adequate thickness for hand impact during round-offs

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Hand/wrist injury from poor landing technique
•Collision between students during movement
•Falls during balance attempts
•Over-rotation in round-off leading to falls

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear boundaries and taking-turns protocols
•Ensure adequate space between practice areas
•Progress from static to dynamic elements gradually
•Constant supervision during round-off attempts
•Partner spotting for balance work where appropriate

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all round-off attempts
•Monitor mat areas for safe hand placement
•Watch for fatigue affecting technique quality
•Ensure pairs communicate effectively during partner work

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or seek additional support as needed