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Lesson 2 - Canon Sequences and Partner Timing

Mastering Timing and Synchronisation in Partner and Group Gymnastics

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Year 5

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Gymnastics

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Big Question

How can we create perfectly timed sequences that flow together like a musical canon?

Learning Objectives

Perform gymnastic sequences in canon with a consistent tempo
Coordinate movements with a partner using agreed timing
Evaluate performances using correct technical vocabulary

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate canon sequences with precise timing
Students will successfully coordinate with partners without visual cues
Students will provide constructive feedback using technical language

Equipment & Resources Required

Dish Cones

Arranged in circle formation around central area

Alternative: Plastic cups, small buckets

Balls

Central stash for warm-up game

Alternative: Small balls, fabric squares

Gymnastics Mats

8-10

Distributed around apparatus stations

Alternative: Yoga mats for floor work

Apparatus

6 stations

Set up 6 different apparatus stations around hall

Alternative: Benches, boxes, tunnels as available

Stopwatch

For timing apparatus setup and sequences

Alternative: Phone timer, wall clock

Digital Cameras

For capturing peer assessment moments

Alternative: Phone camera for recording

Key Vocabulary

Canon

A sequence where partners perform the same movements but start at different times, creating an overlapping effect

Tempo

The speed or pace at which movements are performed consistently

Coordination

Working together in harmony, timing movements to complement each other

Internal Counting

Counting beats in your head to maintain consistent timing

Technical Vocabulary

Specific words used to describe gymnastic movements and performance quality

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic gymnastic sequences travelling close to the ground
Understanding of rhythm and counting beats
Experience working cooperatively with partners

Current Skills

Performing sequences in canon with consistent tempo
Coordinating movements with partners using internal counting
Using technical vocabulary to evaluate performances

Next Steps

Creating more complex canon sequences with multiple timing layers
Incorporating apparatus work with advanced timing challenges
Teaching and leading others in canon work

Milestone Indicators

Can maintain consistent tempo without external cues

Demonstrates precise coordination with partner

Uses accurate technical vocabulary in peer assessment

Key Teaching Points

Canon requires precise internal timing without relying on visual cues from partners
Consistent tempo is more important than speed - maintain steady rhythm throughout
Technical vocabulary enhances peer assessment quality and learning understanding
Partnership cooperation includes both leading and following roles equally
Apparatus work amplifies timing challenges but develops advanced coordination skills
Self-assessment honesty promotes genuine learning and improvement
Safety rules must be maintained even when focused on timing and coordination challenges

Common Misconceptions

Canon and synchronization are the same - canon requires staggered starts, not simultaneous movement
Faster is better - consistent tempo matters more than speed in canon work
Looking at your partner helps timing - independence and internal counting create better canon effects
Technical language is unnecessary - specific vocabulary improves both understanding and feedback quality
One partner should always lead - equal leadership opportunities develop both students' skills
Apparatus work is too advanced for canon timing - equipment actually enhances timing awareness and skills

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, regular movement breaks, clear physical boundaries, immediate feedback and reinforcement

dyspraxia

Simplified timing patterns, extra practice time, visual demonstration support, reduced coordination complexity as needed

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet observation zones available, predictable timing patterns

visual impairment

Use verbal counting cues throughout, partner support for apparatus navigation, tactile markers for start positions, clear verbal descriptions of movements

hearing impairment

Visual counting demonstrations, hand signals for timing, written instruction cards, partner support for rhythm awareness

physical disability

Adapted apparatus options, modified sequences for mobility levels, wheelchair-accessible timing activities, seated canon work

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, peer assessment communication skills, precise language use in feedback

Maths

Counting beats and rhythm patterns, timing intervals, measuring sequence durations, understanding numerical progression in canon timing

Science

Forces and balance during apparatus work, muscle coordination and control, understanding of rhythm and pattern in movement

Music

Understanding canon as a musical concept, rhythm and beat awareness, tempo consistency, coordinating with others in time

PSHE

Partnership skills, constructive feedback giving, self-assessment honesty, perseverance through timing challenges

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between pairs during canon work, position centrally during apparatus rotations for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for timing consistency, partnership cooperation, safety during apparatus work, and quality of technical language use

Intervention Points

Step in when timing becomes consistently unsuccessful, safety rules are forgotten, or peer feedback becomes non-constructive

Demonstration Notes

Use confident students to demonstrate canon effect, model technical vocabulary use, show proper apparatus handling techniques throughout lesson

Verbal Cues

•'Count in your head - 1, 2, 3, 4'
•'Trust your partner's timing'
•'Use technical words in your feedback'
•'Safety first with apparatus'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall minimum 15m x 10m for apparatus work, additional space for floor sequences

Surface Check

Non-slip surface essential, check for wet areas before apparatus setup

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All apparatus inspected before use for stability and damage
•Mats properly positioned under and around apparatus
•Bean bags checked for secure filling before warm-up game

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during crab walking warm-up
•Falls during apparatus work
•Finger injuries during apparatus handling
•Overexertion during canon timing practice

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and pathways established for all activities
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex timing
•Proper apparatus handling procedures enforced
•Regular fatigue monitoring with rest breaks as needed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during apparatus rotations
•Close monitoring during initial canon timing attempts
•Active supervision during apparatus setup and pack-away

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established, first aid accessible, clear evacuation routes maintained around apparatus