Lesson 1 - Group Rolling Sequences in Unison
Collaborative Gymnastics: Synchronised Group Sequences and Performance
•Year 6
•Gymnastics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we work together to create beautiful, synchronized movement sequences that tell a story?
Learning Objectives
- To work cooperatively in groups of 4 to create a sequence of rolls
- To perform gymnastics movements in unison with clear timing and coordination
- To develop sequences with clearly defined starting and finishing positions
Key Outcomes
- Students will create and perform a coordinated sequence of rolls in groups of 4
- Students will demonstrate the ability to move in unison with precise timing
- Students will show understanding of how to transition smoothly between different rolling movements
- Students will perform with clearly defined start and finish positions showing good body tension
Equipment & Resources Required
Place balls around perimeter of space for easy collection
Alternative: Medicine balls, playground balls if large balls unavailable
Space mats evenly around hall for rolling practice
Alternative: Crash mats or multiple smaller mats joined together
Set up in stations around hall with clear pathways between
Alternative: Benches can substitute for boxes, extra mats for variety
Keep accessible for timing apparatus setup challenge
Alternative: Phone timer app
Ensure device is charged and has storage space
Alternative: Camera for still photos if video unavailable
Use to mark group spaces and apparatus boundaries
Alternative: Bean bags or spots
Key Vocabulary
Performing movements at exactly the same time with perfect coordination
A series of movements linked together in a specific order
The smooth movement from one skill or position to another
Controlled muscle engagement to create strong, clear shapes and positions
Changes in speed, level, and force that add interest to movement
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic individual rolling techniques (forward roll, backward roll)
- Understanding of body shapes and tension
- Experience working with partners in gymnastics
- Knowledge of basic apparatus safety rules
Current Skills
- Group coordination and timing in sequences
- Unison performance with others
- Smooth transitions between rolling movements
- Creating clearly defined start and finish positions
Next Steps
- Adding apparatus to group sequences
- Incorporating jumps and balances into group work
- Creating longer, more complex sequences
- Developing leadership skills in choreography
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Emphasise the importance of unison - moving together creates beautiful, powerful performances
- Focus on smooth transitions between movements rather than perfect individual techniques
- Strong starting and finishing positions show control and preparation
- Group communication is essential for successful timing and coordination
- Dynamics add interest and engagement to sequences - vary speed, force, and levels
- Safety first - always prioritise controlled movement over ambitious techniques
- Celebrate both individual effort and group achievement throughout the lesson
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking unison means everyone doing different things at the same time - clarify it means identical movements simultaneously
- Believing faster rolling is better - emphasise control and coordination over speed
- Assuming more complex movements make better sequences - focus on quality execution and flow
- Thinking louder counting helps timing - teach subtle communication and visual cues
- Believing sequences need many different movements - show how fewer, well-executed elements create better flow
- Assuming apparatus work is automatically harder - emphasise that it's different, not necessarily more difficult
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter practice segments with frequent changes, clear boundaries and spaces, regular movement breaks, specific roles within groups
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for coordination, simplified sequences initially, additional demonstrations, focus on individual improvement rather than comparison
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedules for lesson sections, consistent group arrangements, quiet practice zones available, predictable routines and expectations
visual impairment
- Use verbal descriptions for spatial awareness, buddy system for guidance, tactile markers for boundaries, clear verbal cues for timing
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations emphasise timing, hand signals for coordination, written instructions available, vibration cues for rhythm
physical disability
- Seated rolling variations, modified apparatus heights, adapted group roles, alternative movement patterns as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following instructions carefully, developing vocabulary for movement description, giving and receiving constructive feedback, explaining sequence planning
Maths
Counting beats for timing, understanding patterns and sequences, geometry in body shapes and formations, symmetry in group arrangements
Science
Forces and motion during rolling, balance and centre of gravity, coordination between different body systems, momentum and friction concepts
Art
Creating aesthetically pleasing sequences, understanding flow and rhythm, appreciation of movement as artistic expression, choreographic composition
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, building confidence through group success, respecting others' abilities and contributions, perseverance when facing challenges
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around the space to observe all groups, position at corners for maximum visibility during performances
Observation Focus
Watch for group cooperation, timing in unison work, smooth transitions, and safe techniques throughout
Intervention Points
Step in when groups struggle with coordination, timing becomes poor, or safety issues arise
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Use clear, exaggerated movements to show unison timing, demonstrate both good and less effective examples for comparison
Verbal Cues
- •'Together... and 1, 2, 3!'
- •'Find the flow between movements!'
- •'Strong start, smooth middle, clear finish!'
- •'Listen to each other!'
- •'Control and grace in every movement!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 20m clear space, with additional areas for apparatus stations
Surface Check
Clean, non-slip surface free from obstacles and properly maintained gymnastics mats
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all gymnastics mats are flat and properly positioned
- •Ensure apparatus is stable and secure before use
- •Verify adequate spacing between apparatus stations
- •Check balls are properly inflated and undamaged
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between group members during rolling
- •Falls from apparatus during sequences
- •Injuries from lifting apparatus incorrectly
- •Strains from overexertion during repeated practice
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for each group's working space
- •Adequate spacing maintained between students during rolling
- •Progressive skill building from floor to apparatus work
- •Continuous supervision during apparatus setup and use
- •Emphasis on controlled, safe movement throughout
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups during floor work
- •Move between apparatus stations during equipment phases
- •Monitor apparatus setup process closely
- •Watch for signs of fatigue during extended practice periods
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, and ensure safe environment for other students