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Lesson 4 - Understanding and Developing Strength

Understanding Fitness: From Assessment to Personal Progress

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Year 6

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Health Related Fitness

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45 min

Big Question

How does strength training improve our physical capabilities and support our daily activities?

Learning Objectives

To understand the definition and importance of muscular strength
To perform strength exercises safely with proper technique
To evaluate the impact of strength training on physical performance

Key Outcomes

Students will explain what muscular strength is and why it's important
Students will complete a strength circuit with appropriate form and intensity
Students will assess their own and others' performance in strength activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Cards

15 cards

Place one card at each circuit station with clear instructions and questions

Alternative: Laminated instruction sheets, tablet with exercise descriptions

Cones

15 cones

Mark out 15 stations in a large circuit around the activity space

Alternative: Spots, hoops, or chalk marks

Stopwatch

1 per group

Visible timer for whole class or individual group timers

Alternative: Phone app, wall clock with second hand

Pencils

1 per pair

For recording answers to station questions and self-assessment

Alternative: Mini whiteboards, tablets

Tunnel Systems

Optional motivational music for circuit training

Alternative: Portable speaker, phone with speaker

Key Vocabulary

Muscular Strength

The maximum amount of force that a muscle can exert against resistance in a single effort

Resistance

The force that opposes or works against muscle movement

Circuit Training

A series of exercises performed one after another with minimal rest between stations

Progressive Overload

Gradually increasing the difficulty of exercises to continue building strength

Form/Technique

The correct way to perform an exercise to maximise benefits and prevent injury

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of fitness components
Experience with bodyweight exercises
Knowledge of warm-up and cool-down principles
Ability to work safely in pairs

Current Skills

Understanding muscular strength definition
Performing strength circuit exercises correctly
Self-assessment of exercise intensity
Cooperative working during fitness activities

Next Steps

Progressive overload principles
Creating personal strength training programmes
Understanding different types of strength (explosive, endurance)
Advanced strength training techniques

Milestone Indicators

Can define muscular strength accurately

Demonstrates proper form in all circuit stations

Shows understanding of exercise adaptation

Encourages others effectively during activities

Key Teaching Points

Strength is maximum force a muscle can exert in a single effort - emphasise 'maximum' and 'single'
Quality of movement is more important than speed or quantity - focus on controlled technique
Partner cooperation enhances learning - both partners learn through different roles
Personal challenge is key - encourage students to work at their own appropriate level
Connect strength to daily activities - make learning relevant and practical
Proper warm-up and cool-down prevent injury and aid recovery
Breathing and relaxation are essential parts of strength training

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Strength training is only about lifting heavy weights. Correction: Strength can be developed through bodyweight exercises and resistance activities.
Misconception: Doing exercises faster makes you stronger. Correction: Controlled, quality movements build strength more effectively than speed.
Misconception: Strength and endurance are the same thing. Correction: Strength is maximum force once, endurance is repeated efforts over time.
Misconception: Only some people can get stronger. Correction: Everyone can improve their strength through appropriate training and practice.
Misconception: Strength training is dangerous for young people. Correction: Age-appropriate strength activities are safe and beneficial when taught correctly.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Clear, short instructions, regular movement and activity changes, visual cues and reminders, positive reinforcement for focus and effort

dyspraxia

Break down exercises into smaller steps, additional demonstration and practice time, focus on personal improvement, supportive partner pairing

autism spectrum

Clear routine and structure, visual schedule of circuit progression, quiet areas available if needed, predictable timing and clear expectations

visual impairment

Clear verbal descriptions of each exercise, partner support for guidance, tactile demonstration of exercise positions, ensure safe movement pathways

hearing impairment

Visual demonstration of all exercises, written instruction cards at each station, hand signals for timing, ensure visual contact for instructions

physical disability

Seated or supported versions of exercises, modified resistance levels, adapted equipment if needed, focus on personal progress rather than comparison

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development with strength terminology, reading and comprehension of station instruction cards, verbal communication during partner work

Science

Understanding muscle function, forces and resistance, effects of exercise on body systems, scientific method through observation and recording

PSHE

Personal challenge and goal setting, cooperation and teamwork skills, understanding health and fitness benefits, building resilience and determination

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Circulate around circuit stations, positioning to observe multiple groups while maintaining overview of entire class

Observation Focus

Monitor exercise technique, partner cooperation, effort levels, and understanding of strength concepts through station questions

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for safety issues, provide technique correction before poor habits develop, support struggling partnerships

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate all exercises clearly before circuit begins, show modifications for different ability levels, model partner cooperation and encouragement

Verbal Cues

•'Control the movement - strength comes from quality, not speed!'
•'Feel those muscles working against resistance!'
•'Great partner support - that's how teams build strength together!'
•'Challenge yourself appropriately - you know your body best!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space (gymnasium) or outdoor area minimum 20m x 30m for circuit layout

Surface Check

Non-slip surface essential, check for any wet areas or obstacles that could cause falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Ensure all cones/markers are stable and not cracked
•Check clipboards have no sharp edges
•Verify instruction cards are clearly visible and securely placed
•Confirm timer/music equipment is positioned safely away from activity area

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Muscle strain from incorrect technique or overexertion
•Falls during exercises requiring balance or coordination
•Collisions between students moving between stations
•Dehydration or overheating during intensive circuit work

Risk Mitigation

•Proper warm-up to prepare muscles and joints
•Clear demonstration of correct technique for all exercises
•Adequate spacing between circuit stations
•Regular monitoring and correction of exercise form
•Built-in rest periods and partner rotation system
•Emphasis on personal challenge rather than competition

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe maximum number of stations
•Circulate regularly to provide individual feedback
•Monitor for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Watch for proper partner cooperation and safety

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students continue safely under supervision