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Lesson 1 - Group Rolling Sequences in Unison

Collaborative Gymnastics: Synchronised Group Sequences and Performance

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Year 6

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Gymnastics

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1h 19min

Big Question

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

Large Balls

1 per group of 4 (8 balls)

Place balls around perimeter of space for easy collection

Alternative: Medicine balls, playground balls if large balls unavailable

Gymnastics Mats

4-6 large mats

Space mats evenly around hall for rolling practice

Alternative: Crash mats or multiple smaller mats joined together

Apparatus

7 pieces (benches, low boxes, mats)

Set up in stations around hall with clear pathways between

Alternative: Benches can substitute for boxes, extra mats for variety

Stopwatch

Keep accessible for timing apparatus setup challenge

Alternative: Phone timer app

Video Device

1 (tablet/phone)

Ensure device is charged and has storage space

Alternative: Camera for still photos if video unavailable

Cones

8-12

Use to mark group spaces and apparatus boundaries

Alternative: Bean bags or spots

Key Vocabulary

Unison

Performing movements at exactly the same time with perfect coordination

Sequence

A series of movements linked together in a specific order

Transition

The smooth movement from one skill or position to another

Body tension

Controlled muscle engagement to create strong, clear shapes and positions

Dynamics

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

Groups can start and finish simultaneously

Smooth flow between different rolling movements

Clear communication and cooperation within groups

Sequences show creativity and personal expression

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