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Lesson 1 - Straddle & Roll Techniques

Individual to Team Mastery

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Year 6

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Gymnastics

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55 min

Big Question

How can we use momentum and body tension to perform controlled rolling movements with confidence?

Learning Objectives

To develop technical proficiency in straddle, forward and backward rolls with control and fluency
To work collaboratively with a partner to complete gymnastic tasks and provide constructive feedback
To understand and apply the principles of momentum and body tension in rolling movements

Key Outcomes

Students will perform straddle, forward and backward rolls with improved control and fluency
Students will demonstrate effective partner work by supporting each other's learning and suggesting improvements
Students will understand how momentum and body tension contribute to successful rolling movements

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

15 (1 per pair)

Distribute evenly around teaching area with safe spacing between each mat

Alternative: Yoga mats or crash mats if gymnastics mats unavailable

Cards

8 sets (one per pair group)

Keep readily available for teacher demonstration

Alternative: Laminated pictures or demonstration by teacher

Foam Wedge

4-6

Available for students who need additional support with rolls

Alternative: Folded mats or small gymnastic boxes

Key Vocabulary

Straddle

A body position with legs wide apart and straight

Pike

A body position with legs straight and together, bending at the hips

Tuck

A compact body position with knees drawn to chest

Momentum

The force that keeps a movement going once it has started

Body tension

Keeping muscles firm and engaged to maintain control

Forward roll

A roll where the body rotates forward over the head and shoulders

Backward roll

A roll where the body rotates backward over the shoulders

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic gymnastic shapes (tuck, pike, straddle)
Simple balancing on apparatus
Basic rolling movements and rocking actions
Understanding of personal space and mat work safety

Current Skills

Controlled straddle rolls maintaining body position
Forward rolls with proper hand placement and momentum
Backward rolls using correct technique and body tension
Partner observation and feedback skills

Next Steps

Combining multiple rolls in sequence
Adding jumps and landings to roll combinations
Developing inverted skills like handstands
Creating gymnastic routines with partner

Milestone Indicators

Maintains body shape throughout straddle roll

Completes forward roll to standing without assistance

Demonstrates controlled backward roll with hands flat to floor

Provides specific, helpful feedback to partner

Key Teaching Points

Body tension is crucial for maintaining control during all rolling movements
Momentum is created through proper positioning and should be used rather than forced
Chin tuck position protects the neck and is essential for safety in all rolls
Hand placement outside knees in forward rolls prevents interference with momentum
'Pizza hands' technique in backward rolls ensures proper hand positioning and pushing power
Partner support and feedback enhance learning and build confidence
Progressive skill development ensures safety and builds competence systematically

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: All rolls are the same technique. Reality: Each roll type has unique technical requirements
Misconception: Force and power are needed for rolling. Reality: Momentum and control are more important
Misconception: Looking forward helps with direction. Reality: Chin must be tucked for safety
Misconception: Hands inside knees gives better control. Reality: Hands outside knees allows proper momentum
Misconception: Backward rolls are just reverse forward rolls. Reality: Completely different technique needed

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries, regular movement opportunities, positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Break skills into smaller components, extra practice time, visual guides for body positions

autism spectrum

Clear structure with visual schedule, predictable routines, quiet zones available for regulation

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions, allow tactile exploration of positions, buddy system for spatial guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with exaggerated movements, written instruction cards, clear visual cues for activity changes

physical disability

Adapted rolling on slopes, seated variations, focus on achievable components of movements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development with technical gymnastics terms, giving and receiving constructive feedback

Science

Forces and motion - understanding momentum, gravity and body mechanics in rolling movements

PSHE

Perseverance and resilience when learning challenging skills, supporting others through difficult learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during demonstrations, circulating actively during practice to observe all students

Observation Focus

Monitor rolling technique, partner cooperation, spatial awareness and individual challenge level

Intervention Points

Step in if technique becomes unsafe, students become frustrated, or partner work breaks down

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion demonstrations for complex skills, emphasise safety points, repeat key positions multiple times for clarity

Verbal Cues

•'Wide legs in straddle!'
•'Pizza hands ready!'
•'Chin to chest for safety!'
•'Let momentum help you!'
•'Support your partner!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large gymnasium or hall with minimum 15m x 20m clear space for mat distribution

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Gymnastics mats checked for thickness, cleanliness and integrity
•Foam wedges inspected for damage and positioned securely
•Progression cards laminated and corners rounded for safety

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Neck strain from incorrect rolling technique
•Collisions between students during mat activities
•Falls or awkward landings during roll attempts
•Slips on smooth surfaces when transitioning between mats

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasis on correct chin tuck position throughout all rolls
•Clear spacing guidelines between mats and monitoring of movement
•Progressive skill development ensuring readiness before advancement
•Partner support system with observation and encouragement protocols

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all students during mat activities
•Circulate constantly during skill practice to monitor technique
•Focus on backward roll area due to higher complexity and risk
•Ensure immediate intervention if technique becomes unsafe

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, apply first aid as appropriate, call for medical support if needed