🤸

Lesson 3 - Asymmetrical Balances & Rolls

Individual to Team Performance

•

Year 5

•

Gymnastics

•

45 min

Big Question

How can we create dynamic asymmetrical sequences that challenge our balance and coordination while exploring different planes of movement?

Learning Objectives

Explore and perform a variety of asymmetrical balances with different points of contact
Master the over-shoulder roll technique with correct weight distribution
Compose and combine asymmetrical sequences individually and with a partner

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled asymmetrical balances with clear distinction from symmetrical shapes
Students will execute over-shoulder rolls safely with weight on shoulders, not neck
Students will create flowing 4-element asymmetrical sequences and combine them with partners

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

8-10 mats

Scattered around space with clear pathways between for safe movement

Alternative: Crash mats or thicker exercise mats for rolling practice

Coloured Cones

20-25 (4-5 of each colour)

Distributed evenly around the space for warm-up activity

Alternative: Bean bags, hoops, or coloured paper markers

Whistles

For teacher to signal changes during warm-up

Alternative: Musical instrument, voice commands, or bell

Wall Space

Available around hall perimeter

For students needing support during balance practice

Alternative: Any stable vertical surface for modified balances

Key Vocabulary

Asymmetrical

Not identical on both sides; having different shapes or positions on left and right sides of the body

Over-shoulder roll

A backwards rolling action where the body rolls over one shoulder instead of straight back

Points of contact

The parts of the body that are touching the floor or apparatus

Weight distribution

How body weight is spread across different body parts during movement

Sequence

A series of connected movements performed one after another

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic static balances on different body parts
Understanding of symmetrical shapes and movements
Simple rolling actions including log rolls and forward rolls

Current Skills

Asymmetrical balance control and body awareness
Over-shoulder roll technique and weight distribution
Sequence composition and partner collaboration

Next Steps

Complex asymmetrical travelling actions
Combining symmetrical and asymmetrical elements in routines
Partner matching and contrasting sequences

Milestone Indicators

Sustained asymmetrical balances showing clear body shape control

Smooth over-shoulder roll without weight on neck or head

Flowing sequence work with clear beginning, middle, and end

Key Teaching Points

Asymmetrical means different on each side - emphasise this distinction throughout
Weight must always be on shoulders during over-shoulder rolls, never on neck or head
Balance control improves with practice - encourage persistence and effort
Sequences should flow smoothly from one element to the next
Partner work requires communication, respect, and shared responsibility
Safety awareness is everyone's responsibility during gymnastics activities
Quality of movement is more important than attempting advanced skills too quickly

Common Misconceptions

Thinking asymmetrical balances are unstable - they can be very strong when properly executed
Confusing over-shoulder roll with backward roll technique
Believing that asymmetrical means uncontrolled or sloppy movement
Assuming that sequences must be performed at high speed to look impressive
Thinking that partner work means doing exactly the same movements simultaneously

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear movement boundaries, opportunities for physical release through travelling activities

dyspraxia

Slower progression through rolling sequence, additional practice time for movement coordination, simplified sequence requirements if needed

autism spectrum

Clear structure and routine, visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet reflection space available, consistent partner pairings

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of asymmetrical shapes, tactile guidance for hand placement during rolls, partner support for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all movements, written instruction cards, visual signals for activity changes

physical disability

Adapt balances for wheelchair users, use wall support for modified asymmetrical shapes, focus on achievable movements within individual capabilities

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Descriptive vocabulary for movement, following and giving instructions, reflection and evaluation skills

Maths

Counting contact points, understanding symmetry and asymmetry concepts, sequencing and ordering elements

Science

Forces and balance, gravity and centre of mass, muscle groups and movement

Geography

Directional language, spatial awareness, position and movement vocabulary

PSHE

Working collaboratively, giving and receiving feedback constructively, perseverance and resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around space to observe all students during rolling practice. Position centrally for demonstrations and discussions.

Observation Focus

Watch for correct weight distribution during rolls, balance control during asymmetrical shapes, and safe collaboration during partner work.

Intervention Points

Stop immediately if weight goes onto neck during rolling. Support students struggling with balance concepts. Facilitate partner discussions if needed.

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements to show asymmetrical versus symmetrical differences. Demonstrate incorrect technique briefly to show what to avoid, then show correct technique multiple times.

Verbal Cues

•'Weight on shoulders, not neck!'
•'Different on each side - that's asymmetrical!'
•'Hold it steady for 3 seconds!'
•'Flow from one movement to the next!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m clear space with gymnastics mats. Adequate ceiling height for full rolling actions.

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip floor surface. All mats lying flat without wrinkles or gaps.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats are undamaged with no tears or worn areas
•Ensure mats are positioned with adequate space around each
•Coloured markers have no sharp edges and are clearly visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Neck injury during over-shoulder rolls
•Falls from uncontrolled balances
•Collisions during partner work

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise weight on shoulders, never neck, during rolling
•Progress gradually from rocking to full over-shoulder roll
•Maintain clear spacing between pairs during sequence work
•Stop activity immediately if unsafe technique observed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all over-shoulder roll attempts
•Monitor partner work for safe spacing and communication
•Watch for fatigue affecting balance control

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury severity, apply appropriate first aid, contact school medical support if needed