Gymnastics 1 - Lesson 4

In Year 1, Gymnastics Lesson 4, the objective is to advance the pupils' balancing abilities, both in terms of holding shapes and executing routines. The lesson begins with a warm-up where the class teacher sets out a safe zone with cones and models balancing on one body part, such as a hop balance (1 point of contact) and a seated balance with arms and knees tucked in. The children are encouraged to jog around and then freeze in the balance demonstrated, understanding the concept of points of contact with the floor. They explore balances with different numbers of points of contact, ranging from one to four, and are challenged to maintain their balance for three seconds, thus developing their control and stability.

The main part of the lesson involves modelling a 'star shape' balance and playing a travelling game where the pupils explore points of contact and freeze in balance when prompted. The teacher introduces the concept of entrance and exit positions, which the children practice, focusing on body alignment and hand positioning. They then move on to perform routines that include entrances, jumps with 'squashy knees', star shapes, and exits, followed by reflection with a partner on their performance. The lesson concludes with a cool-down game of 'Fox and Rabbits', which incorporates the theme of balancing and scanning for space, as well as a moment of reflection where pupils lay on their backs to consider their achievements and areas for improvement.