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Lesson 3 - Introducing Mirroring Movements

Synchronised Partner Gymnastics: Matching and Mirroring Excellence

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Year 6

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Gymnastics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we create mirror images with our movements to perform excellent gymnastics with precision and timing?

Learning Objectives

To understand and apply the concept of mirroring in gymnastics movements
To create a mini sequence with 3 mirroring movements demonstrating flow between movements
To explore canon and unison timing whilst maintaining excellent movement quality

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate understanding of mirroring through practical application
Students will create sequences showing flow, variety of levels and precise timing
Students will provide constructive feedback to improve performance quality

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

1 per pair (15 mats)

Distributed evenly around hall with clear pathways between

Alternative: Floor work if insufficient mats available

Cones

8-10 cones

Mark clear working areas and demonstration space

Alternative: Use existing hall markings

Tunnel Systems

Optional background music for sequences

Alternative: Clapping for timing

Key Vocabulary

Mirroring

Performing movements that create a mirror image of your partner

Canon

When one partner starts a movement and the other follows slightly later

Unison

When both partners perform the movement at exactly the same time

Flow

Smooth, continuous connection between movements without pauses

Sequence

A series of connected movements performed in a set order

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic gymnastics movements and excellent technique
Understanding of body parts and spatial awareness
Experience working with partners in previous gymnastics units

Current Skills

Creating mirror images with body movements
Timing movements in canon and unison
Developing flow between connected movements

Next Steps

Advanced matching and mirroring sequences
Group synchronisation work
Complex partner balances using mirroring principles

Milestone Indicators

Accurate mirroring technique with precise timing

Smooth transitions between movements showing flow

Effective collaboration and constructive feedback

Key Teaching Points

Mirroring requires exact opposite movements - when leader uses right hand, mirror uses left hand
Eye contact is essential for successful mirroring and timing coordination
Unison means starting and finishing exactly together, canon means delayed start
Flow between movements creates quality sequences - avoid stopping between each movement
Partner selection should focus on similar ability levels for effective learning
Quality and control are more important than speed or complexity
Constructive feedback focuses on specific technical elements, not general comments

Common Misconceptions

Thinking mirroring means copying exactly the same side - explain opposite limb concept clearly
Believing faster movements are better - emphasise control and precision over speed
Assuming canon means any timing difference - specify the exact 2-second delay requirement
Thinking flow means rushing - explain smooth, controlled transitions between movements
Believing only complex movements are excellent - demonstrate how simple movements can show perfect technique

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use clear movement boundaries, provide frequent position changes, incorporate kinesthetic learning opportunities

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller steps, allow extra practice time, provide movement pattern cards for reference

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure with visual schedules, allow processing time for partner changes, offer quiet observation options

visual impairment

Use clear verbal cues for all movements, allow tactile guidance from partner, emphasise verbal communication for timing

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations for all concepts, use visual timing cues like hand signals, ensure face-to-face positioning for lip reading

physical disability

Adapt movements to seated or supported positions, focus on achievable body parts, modify timing expectations as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Understanding reflection and symmetry, forces and balance, coordination and reaction times

Art

Symmetry in design, creating patterns, understanding visual balance and composition

Music

Timing and rhythm, canon and unison concepts, coordinating movement to beats

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, giving and receiving feedback, building confidence through performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position allowing 360-degree view of all working pairs

Observation Focus

Monitor mirroring accuracy, timing precision, partner cooperation and movement quality

Intervention Points

Step in if partnerships become unproductive, safety concerns arise, or technical support needed

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility. Emphasise key teaching points through demonstration rather than explanation alone.

Verbal Cues

•'Mirror exactly - opposite hands!'
•'Count together for unison!'
•'Leader waits for follower in canon!'
•'Smooth transitions between movements!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall space minimum 15m x 10m clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Mats laid flat without wrinkles or raised edges
•Adequate spacing between working pairs
•Clear pathways for movement

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between pairs during travelling movements
•Loss of balance during mirroring activities
•Inappropriate partner matching leading to safety issues

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for each pair's working space
•Emphasis on controlled movements over speed
•Appropriate partner selection guidelines enforced
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all pairs simultaneously
•Monitor partner interactions for safety and respect
•Watch for fatigue affecting movement quality

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear procedure for injury response