Gymnastics - Lesson 2

In the second lesson of the Nursery Gymnastics series, children are introduced to the concept of safely traversing apparatus such as benches and low vaults. The learning objectives are centered around exploring different modes of travel, ensuring safety while crossing a bench, and encouraging pupils to choose their own movements. The success of the lesson is gauged by the children's ability to travel in varied ways, cross a bench without risk, and exhibit creativity in their movements. Key vocabulary includes terms like gymnastics, travel, movement, bench, apparatus, and balance, which are integral to the lesson. The equipment required for the session consists of benches and cones.

The lesson is structured into a warm-up, main activity, and cool-down. The warm-up involves a 'Shape Game' where children make shapes such as a star, a tuck, and a standing pencil while moving around the hall and freezing in position when prompted. The main activity divides the class into small groups, with children taking turns to walk, jump, crawl, shuffle, and slither across the bench, using different techniques to maintain balance and coordination. The cool-down is a fun 'Musical Benches' game where children circle the benches and quickly find a seat when the music stops. The lesson aims to develop not only physical skills but also emotional understanding, as children learn to manage feelings of competition and frustration in a supportive environment.