Gymnastics 2 - Lesson 4

In Gymnastics 2 – Lesson 4, Year 1 pupils are introduced to the dynamic world of gymnastics with a focus on exploring different styles of travelling: under, over, and through. The lesson aims to teach students various methods of moving around and interacting with equipment, with the success criteria including the ability to travel using different methods, work collaboratively in small teams, and navigate over, under, and through apparatus. Key vocabulary for the lesson includes terms such as entrance, exit, under, over, through, and travel. To facilitate the activities, equipment such as cones, safety mats, and hoops are used. The lesson starts with a warm-up where children are encouraged to move around the space imitating animals, helping them to understand the different shapes and movements associated with each creature.

The main part of the lesson lasts 30 minutes and involves a series of engaging activities. Pupils work in small groups to practice travelling through arches created by their peers, moving under the legs of classmates standing in a star shape, and navigating through hoops. These exercises are designed to build coordination and spatial awareness. Key teaching points include maintaining a strong body posture with straight arms and incorporating a three-second entrance and exit into their movements. The lesson concludes with a cool-down activity called STAR TAG, where pupils practice evasion techniques and reflect on their learning experience, discussing what they did well and how they could improve. This gymnastics lesson is not only about physical development but also encourages creative thinking, teamwork, and self-assessment.