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Lesson 5 - Graceful Flight Transitions

Flight Mastery: Power to Artistry

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Year 7

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Gymnastics

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58 min

Big Question

How can we use dynamics, pathways and technical language to create and evaluate outstanding flight sequences?

Learning Objectives

Evaluate peer performances using accurate technical gymnastics terminology
Link jumps gracefully with smooth transitions exploring different pathways
Demonstrate variety in dynamics to create interesting flight sequences

Key Outcomes

Students will perform flight sequences with at least three different jumps and smooth transitions
Students will provide constructive feedback using technical vocabulary such as dynamics, pathways, canon, pike and straddle
Students will create group routines incorporating cat springs, turns and varied dynamics

Equipment & Resources Required

Low Obstacles for Cat Springs

6-8

Distributed around practice space, minimum 3 metres apart, on mats

Alternative: Bean bags, stacked mats, partner's back (with careful supervision)

Gymnastics Mats

Various pieces (boxes, benches, tables, bars)

Pre-planned stations, students set up in teams with teacher supervision

Alternative: Classroom furniture if in adapted space (with risk assessment)

Safety Mats

15-20

Carried by pairs, positioned under all apparatus and landing zones

Alternative: Crash mats for less confident students

Stopwatch

Used by teacher to time apparatus setup and monitor activity duration

Alternative: Mobile phone timer, wall clock with second hand

Cones

12-16

Define practice areas and pathways for transitions

Alternative: Spots, chalk lines, tape markers

Key Vocabulary

Dynamics

The variations in speed, level, force and flow that make movement interesting and expressive

Transitions

The linking movements between main skills that create flow and continuity in a sequence

Pathways

The lines and directions your body travels through space (straight, curved, zigzag)

Canon

When group members perform the same movement one after another, like a ripple effect

Cat Spring

A dynamic jump over an object with hands placed on it, hips lifted high and legs tucked or straddled

Pike

A body shape with straight legs lifted, creating a 'V' shape at the hips

Straddle

A wide leg position with legs apart to the sides, creating a wide 'V' or diamond shape

Step and Sweep

A turning technique where you step forward with a straight leg and sweep the arm across to lead the turn

Graceful

Movement that is smooth, controlled, elegant and appears effortless

Technical Language

The specific vocabulary used in gymnastics to accurately describe skills, positions and qualities of movement

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic gymnastics jumps (star, tuck, straddle)
Understanding of body tension and control
Safe apparatus handling and basic flight principles
Introduction to pathways and levels in movement

Current Skills

Cat spring technique with low objects
Step and sweep turning method for pathway changes
Canon sequences in small groups
Technical evaluation using gymnastics vocabulary
Linking movements with graceful transitions

Next Steps

Advanced flight combinations on apparatus
Complex group compositions with synchronisation and contrast
Creating themed sequences with narrative
Teaching and coaching peers using technical language

Milestone Indicators

Consistent pointed toes and straight legs during flight

Smooth, controlled landings with bent knees

Fluid transitions without pauses or loss of flow

Accurate use of at least 5 technical terms when evaluating

Visible variety in dynamics (speed, level, direction)

Key Teaching Points

Cat springs require high hip elevation - this is the defining feature; prioritise hip height over distance or object height
Step and sweep turns have four distinct phases: straight leg step, arm touches opposite shoulder, arm sweeps away, 90-degree turn - ensure all phases are present
Transitions create flow in gymnastics - sequences should connect smoothly without pauses; practice linking movements not just individual skills
Technical language is essential for quality evaluation - model specific terms constantly and expect students to use them in feedback
Canon timing must be consistent (2-3 seconds) for the visual effect - this requires discipline and awareness, not just performing your own sequence
Dynamics (speed, level, force, flow) create interest and expression - same movement with different dynamics transforms the quality
Safety in apparatus work depends on setup procedures, clear landing zones, and appropriate skill progression - maintain strict protocols throughout

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Cat springs are just jumping over things.' Correction: Cat springs specifically involve hands placed on object/floor, hips elevated above head, and controlled landing - it's a technical skill not just a jump.
Misconception: 'Faster turns and transitions are always better.' Correction: Graceful, controlled movements are the goal; dynamics include both fast and slow - variety and quality matter, not just speed.
Misconception: 'Canon means doing it at the same time.' Correction: Canon is performing the SAME sequence one after another (like a ripple effect), not simultaneously; timing intervals are essential.
Misconception: 'Good feedback is just saying nice things.' Correction: Constructive evaluation includes specific strengths AND improvements, using technical language to be precise and helpful.
Misconception: 'Pathways are just where you go.' Correction: Pathways are intentional lines through space (straight, curved, zigzag) that create patterns and interest; they should be planned, not random.
Misconception: 'Step and sweep is just a turn.' Correction: Step and sweep is a specific technique with straight leg, arm touching shoulder, arm sweep leading turn - it creates graceful transitions, not just direction changes.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short, varied activities (frequent changes maintain engagement). Clear, concise instructions with visual supports. Movement breaks built into lesson (already present in active lesson). Fidget tools during seated explanation sections if helpful. Positive reinforcement frequently ('I can see you're focusing on that straight leg!'). Choice within activities (which low object for cat springs?). Countdown timers visible for activity duration.

dyspraxia

Additional practice time for motor planning (step and sweep may need extra repetitions). Larger, stable equipment (wider benches, bigger mats). Reduce complexity initially (simple sequence before adding canon). Break down skills into smaller steps with practice at each phase. Verbal rehearsal of sequence before physical performance ('First I jump, then I turn...'). Visual pathway markers (cones) to guide movement direction. Partner support for apparatus work. Celebrate effort and improvement over perfection.

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson sections displayed. Predictable routines established (same warm-up structure). Quiet zone available if sensory overwhelm occurs. Social stories about apparatus setup and peer evaluation beforehand. Visual cue cards for step and sweep sequence (photos of each phase). Advance warning of transitions between sections. Clear, literal language avoiding idioms. Option to observe before participating if needed.

visual impairment

Buddy system with sighted partner for spatial orientation. Verbal descriptions of all demonstrations with tactile modelling (guide student's body through step and sweep motion). Bright coloured mats and apparatus edges for contrast. Audio cues for canon timing (teacher calls 'Person 2 start... Person 3 start'). Describe pathways verbally (straight line forward, turn left 90 degrees).

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations essential - exaggerate movements for clarity. British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter if available. Written instructions on whiteboard or cards for key tasks. Visual signals for start/stop (raised hand, light signal). Ensure student can see teacher's face for lip-reading. Partner positioned in front for visual feedback. Visual timer for activities instead of verbal time calls.

physical disability

Wheelchair users: adapt cat springs to wheelchair push-ups or modified jumps in chair. Upper body sequencing using arm pathways and gestures instead of travelling. Peer performs physical sequence while wheelchair user directs and evaluates (developing Head domain). Adapted apparatus (lower benches, ramps). Support worker for transfers if needed. Focus on dynamics and evaluation skills - full participation in cognitive aspects.

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development and accurate usage. Providing structured verbal feedback with clear explanations. Listening skills during partner evaluation. Sequencing and ordering in routine construction. Descriptive language to articulate movement quality (graceful, powerful, controlled).

Maths

Angles during step and sweep turns (90-degree turns, 180-degree spins). Timing in canon sequences (2-3 second intervals, measuring duration). Counting beats and rhythms in sequences. Symmetry in body positions (pike, straddle). Spatial awareness and distance estimation.

Science

Forces during jumps (gravity, upward thrust, friction on landing). Levers and pivots in turns (foot as pivot point, arm as lever). Energy transfer from run-up to flight. Muscles and joints used in gymnastics (quadriceps, hamstrings, core, shoulders). Heart rate changes from warm-up through cool-down.

Art

Composition and aesthetics in sequence design. Pathways as 'drawing' patterns through space. Body shapes creating visual images (pike, straddle, tuck). Dynamics as artistic expression (tempo, intensity). Canon as a artistic device creating visual rhythm.

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration in trio work. Giving and receiving constructive feedback respectfully. Resilience when sequences don't work first time. Leadership during group composition. Celebrating others' success. Managing emotions (frustration, excitement). Risk assessment and personal safety.

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Warm-up/Cool-down: central position for 360-degree visibility. Skill development: circulate between trios, spending 30-45 seconds with each group. Apparatus work: constantly mobile, prioritising stations with advanced skills (cat springs over equipment), positioning yourself with back to wall for full hall view.

Observation Focus

Warm-up: landing control and spacing. Cat springs: hip elevation and hand placement. Transitions: step and sweep technique (straight leg, arm contact, 90-degree turn). Canon: timing intervals and quality maintenance. Apparatus: safe landings, pathway planning, creative use of equipment. Evaluation: specificity and use of technical language.

Intervention Points

Stop immediately if: unsafe apparatus setup, collision risk in pathways, students attempting skills beyond ability without spotters, fatigue causing dangerous technique, unclear landing zones. Pause and redirect if: technical feedback is vague or unhelpful, dynamic variation not visible, canon timing inconsistent, group collaboration breaking down.

Demonstration Notes

Use yourself for basic demonstrations (step and sweep, basic jumps) to ensure clarity. Select confident students for cat springs, leapfrog, and complex sequences - brief them beforehand on what to demonstrate. Use slow-motion demonstrations followed by full-speed performance. Contrast correct vs incorrect technique occasionally (exaggerate errors safely) to highlight key points. For apparatus work, demonstrate at multiple stations to ensure all students see relevant examples for their equipment.

Verbal Cues

•'Soft landings - bend those knees!'
•'Hips high during cat spring!'
•'Straight leg, pointed toe for step and sweep'
•'Arm touches shoulder THEN sweeps away'
•'Canon timing - 2, 3, next person starts'
•'Use technical language - what exactly did you see?'
•'Graceful transitions - flow from one skill to the next'
•'Check your landing zone is clear!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Full sports hall or gymnasium minimum 20m x 15m. Clear height 4m+ for jumping. Apparatus area requires stations minimum 5m apart. Clear perimeter for apparatus storage and safe carrying pathways.

Surface Check

Dry, clean, non-slip hall floor. Check for moisture, dust or debris before lesson. Mat coverage essential for all landing areas - inspect mats for wear, tears or slipping. Apparatus must be on stable, level floor area.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Inspect all apparatus before lesson: check stability, no sharp edges, secure connections
•Mats: check for tears, adequate thickness, non-slip backing
•Low objects for cat springs: stable, appropriate height (15-30cm), positioned on mats
•Apparatus: benches must be secured, boxes stable with all sections locked, bars at appropriate height
•Stopwatch checked and functioning for timed activities

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during leapfrog and travelling activities
•Falls from apparatus or during cat springs
•Impact injuries from poor landing technique
•Crush injuries during apparatus setup/pack away
•Strains or sprains from inadequate warm-up or overexertion
•Peer-on-peer contact during cat springs over partners

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and spacing established (minimum 3m between groups)
•Progressive skill building: floor work before apparatus, low objects before high
•Constant reinforcement of controlled landings with bent knees
•Strict apparatus handling protocols: pairs only, no running, teacher supervision
•Adequate warm-up targeting jumping muscles and joints
•Cat springs over partners only for advanced students with demonstrated technique; spotter required for apparatus cat springs
•Canon sequences planned to avoid pathway collisions
•Immediate intervention if fatigue affects technique

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups during floor work (central vantage point)
•During apparatus work, circulate constantly between stations, prioritising higher-risk activities (cat springs over equipment)
•Monitor high-activity areas: apparatus dismount zones, cat spring landing areas
•Watch for early signs of fatigue affecting technique (heavy landings, loss of control)
•Ensure adequate rest between high-intensity activities

Emergency Procedures

STOP signal established (whistle or 'FREEZE' command) - all students stop immediately and sit. Assess situation: minor injury (first aider, student sits out with ice/support), major injury (emergency services called, students moved to safe area away from incident, lesson stopped). First aid kit accessible in hall. Nearest telephone/emergency contact point identified. At least one qualified first aider on site during lesson.