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Lesson 1 - Round-Off and Sequence Building

Individual to Team Performance

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Year 5

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Gymnastics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use the round-off to create dynamic sequences that showcase different speeds, heights and shapes?

Learning Objectives

Develop the key steps to performing a round-off with control and confidence
Create a four-element sequence incorporating actions at different heights and speeds
Distinguish between symmetrical and asymmetrical shapes in gymnastics

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled weight transfer through hands in round-off technique
Students will compose and perform a structured gymnastics sequence with varying dynamics
Students will identify and create both symmetrical and asymmetrical body positions

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

20 (4 per station)

Arranged in 5 stations in dice pattern formation

Alternative: Crash mats, exercise mats

Hoops

4 large hoops

One in each corner for animal dens

Alternative: Cones or markers

Benches

2-3 benches

For differentiated round-off practice

Alternative: Low boxes, foam blocks

Chalk

As needed

To mark hand positions on mats for guidance

Alternative: Markers, spots

Key Vocabulary

Round-off

A gymnastics skill where weight is taken on hands like a cartwheel, but both feet land together facing the direction you came from

Symmetrical

When both sides of the body match exactly, like a mirror image

Asymmetrical

When the two sides of the body are different and don't match

Sequence

A series of gymnastics movements performed one after another in a planned order

Weight transfer

Moving your body weight from one body part to another smoothly and with control

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic weight bearing on hands (bunny hops)
Simple forward rolls and backward rolls
Understanding of high, medium and low levels
Basic balance positions

Current Skills

Round-off technique development
Sequence composition and performance
Symmetrical and asymmetrical shape work
Speed and height variation

Next Steps

Advanced vaulting techniques
Complex sequence linking with apparatus
Partner and group sequence work
Competition-style routine development

Milestone Indicators

Consistent weight transfer through hands

Smooth transitions between sequence elements

Clear demonstration of contrasting shapes

Confident performance in front of others

Key Teaching Points

Quality of movement is more important than difficulty level - focus on control and technique
Use progressive skill development - never skip foundational steps
Emphasise the difference between cartwheel and round-off through clear demonstration
Build confidence through differentiated challenges appropriate to each student's ability
Connect physical practice to cognitive understanding of symmetry and asymmetry
Encourage peer support and positive feedback throughout the lesson
Maintain high expectations while celebrating individual progress and effort

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking round-off and cartwheel are the same skill - emphasise the quarter turn and together landing
Believing symmetrical means 'easy' and asymmetrical means 'hard' - show that both require skill and control
Assuming bigger movements are always better - focus on quality, control and appropriate challenge level
Thinking sequences must be performed at one speed - demonstrate the importance of varying dynamics
Misconception that gymnastics is only for 'naturally flexible' students - emphasise that all bodies can do gymnastics

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear physical boundaries, movement breaks built in, immediate positive feedback, visual reminders of success criteria

dyspraxia

Extra practice time, simplified movement patterns, larger equipment for easier handling, step-by-step breakdown with repetition

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet space available if needed, consistent language and expectations

visual impairment

Use bright coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, tactile guidance for hand positioning, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for start/stop, visual cues for timing and rhythm

physical disability

Adapted weight-bearing activities, seated or supported balance variations, modified equipment height, focus on achievable elements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Developing vocabulary for movement description, giving structured feedback to peers, following complex instructions, sequence planning and communication

Maths

Counting sequence elements, understanding symmetry and asymmetry concepts, measuring distances for run-ups, angles in body positions

Science

Forces and motion in round-off technique, gravity and balance, muscle groups and body systems, energy transfer in movement

Art

Understanding symmetry and asymmetry in visual art, creating aesthetically pleasing movement sequences, appreciating form and composition

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between stations during skill development, central position for demonstrations, corner position for warm-up game oversight

Observation Focus

Monitor weight transfer technique, sequence composition quality, peer interaction and support

Intervention Points

Step in when students attempt skills beyond ability, provide additional support for nervous learners, redirect focus if attention wanes

Demonstration Notes

Use confident students or video clips for round-off demonstration, exaggerate key teaching points, show common mistakes and corrections

Verbal Cues

•'Strong arms like tree trunks!'
•'Land like a feather, soft and controlled!'
•'Make your shapes big and proud!'
•'Remember your sequence: round-off, asymmetrical balance, roll, symmetrical balance!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 10m hall space, clear ceiling height for jumping movements

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, dry and clean, free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All mats checked for tears, properly positioned and flat
•Benches stable and appropriate height
•Hoops in good condition without sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during round-off attempts
•Collision between students during warm-up games
•Overexertion during skill practice
•Loss of control during weight-bearing activities

Risk Mitigation

•Progressive skill development from simple to complex
•Clear differentiation ensures students work at appropriate level
•Adequate spacing between working areas
•Continuous supervision and technique guidance
•Proper warm-up to prepare muscles for activity

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all working groups
•Monitor weight-bearing activities closely
•Watch for signs of fatigue or loss of control
•Ensure students attempt only appropriate skill levels

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid response, contact emergency services if required