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Lesson 5 - Cat Springs and Graceful Flight Sequences

Mastering Flight: From Individual Control to Collaborative Sequences

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Year 6

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Gymnastics

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Big Question

How can we combine cat springs with graceful turns to create dynamic flight sequences that flow beautifully?

Learning Objectives

To perform cat springs with correct technique and control
To link movements and jumps using different pathways and dynamics
To evaluate others' performances using appropriate technical language

Key Outcomes

Students will execute cat springs with low starting position and controlled landing
Students will create sequences combining jumps, turns and pathway changes
Students will use technical vocabulary to assess and improve performances

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

Various pieces

Arranged around apparatus stations

Alternative: Carpet tiles or exercise mats

Cones

20 cones

Mark pathways and boundaries

Alternative: Markers or beanbags

Stopwatch

For timing apparatus setup challenge

Alternative: Phone timer

Video Device

1 per student

For recording sequences for assessment

Alternative: Camera

Key Vocabulary

Cat Spring

A forward jump from feet to hands then feet, staying low throughout flight

Dynamics

Variations in speed, force and flow of movements

Pathway

The route or direction taken through space during movement

Canon

Performing the same sequence at different times like a round

Pike

Body position with straight legs and bent at hips

Straddle

Body position with legs wide apart

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic jumping and landing techniques
Simple turning movements
Working safely with apparatus

Current Skills

Cat spring technique
Graceful transitional movements
Sequence composition with dynamics

Next Steps

Advanced flight combinations
Competitive gymnastics skills
Choreographing group routines

Milestone Indicators

Consistent cat spring technique

Smooth transitions between movements

Confident use of technical vocabulary

Key Teaching Points

Cat spring technique requires low starting position and controlled landing hands-first
Graceful turning involves straight leg stepping with pointed toe and smooth arm action
Dynamics in gymnastics include variations in speed, force and flow of movements
Apparatus work must prioritise safety through proper setup and progressive skill development
Canon timing requires listening skills and consistent sequence performance
Peer observation develops technical vocabulary and supportive learning community
Pathway awareness enhances spatial understanding and sequence composition skills

Common Misconceptions

Cat springs should be high jumps - actually they should stay low throughout flight
Turning is just spinning around - actually requires specific technique with arm and leg coordination
Apparatus work is about difficult skills - actually about controlled, graceful movement
Canon means everyone does different things - actually means same sequence at different start times
Feedback should focus on mistakes - actually should highlight strengths and suggest improvements
Gymnastics sequences are about individual performance - actually about group coordination and support

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity segments with clear transitions, movement breaks built in, specific roles during group work

dyspraxia

Slower progression through skills, larger mats for confidence, extra practice time, simplified sequences

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet reflection spaces available, predictable apparatus setup routines

visual impairment

Tactile demonstrations of cat spring position, clear verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for apparatus work

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations emphasised, written instruction cards, hand signals for group formation

physical disability

Adapted starting positions for cat springs, wheelchair-accessible apparatus, modified jumping movements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, descriptive language for movement evaluation

Maths

Counting beats for canon timing, measuring distances for cat springs, angles of rotation in turns

Science

Forces and motion in jumping and landing, balance and centre of gravity in gymnastics

Art

Creating artistic sequences with flow and beauty, appreciating graceful movement aesthetics

Music

Rhythm and timing in canon work, dynamics matching musical concepts

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, building confidence, supporting others' learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between apparatus stations to monitor safety and provide feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct cat spring technique, graceful transitions, and safe apparatus use

Intervention Points

Step in when students attempt skills beyond their ability or when apparatus safety is compromised

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for cat spring technique, show graceful turning with emphasised arm movements

Verbal Cues

•'Stay low in your cat spring!'
•'Graceful arm sweep!'
•'Control the landing!'
•'Think about your pathway!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Full sports hall minimum 15m x 20m for apparatus and sequence work

Surface Check

Dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check gymnastics apparatus stability before use
•Ensure mats are placed securely around apparatus
•Verify equipment is age-appropriate and well-maintained
•Check cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during cat springs and apparatus work
•Collisions during group sequences and canon work
•Apparatus movement or instability
•Overconfidence leading to unsafe skill attempts

Risk Mitigation

•Progressive skill building from floor to low apparatus
•Clear boundaries established for each group's working area
•Adequate mats positioned around all apparatus
•Constant supervision during apparatus activities
•Peer spotting encouraged for advanced skills

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of apparatus stations
•Monitor advanced skill attempts closely
•Check apparatus setup and pack away procedures
•Ensure safe group formation during activities

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, call for assistance if needed