Gymnastics 2 - Lesson 3

In Year 3, Gymnastics lesson 3, the objective is to enhance the technique of performing a forwards roll with various starting and finishing positions. The success criteria for this lesson include being able to take weight on hands, support body weight by pushing off hands, roll with the chin tucked in, and explore different starting and finishing positions. Key vocabulary terms such as 'rolling', 'forwards roll', 'weight', and various body shapes like 'tuck shape', 'pike', and 'straddle' are introduced. The equipment required for this lesson consists of gymnastics mats and a class set of bibs. The warm-up involves a game of Classic Tag, where pupils move around the learning space and turn into a 'tomato' (tuck shape) when tagged, which requires another pupil to free them by tapping their head.

The main part of the lesson, lasting 30 minutes, begins with pupils showing the ready position at their mat and partners numbering themselves as 1 or 2. The teacher demonstrates the forward roll with emphasis on the medium level tuck shape, hand placement, and the importance of tucking the head in. Pupils then practice the key points with their partners, focusing on turn-taking and the roll. They are encouraged to extend their skills by increasing the speed and control of the forward roll. Pupils also learn to incorporate different shapes into and out of the rolls, such as a medium level pike into a forwards roll finishing with a low level pike. The lesson concludes with pupils performing a short routine to their peers, including a forwards roll with an entrance and exit, and a cool down session where the teacher gives commands for various movements and stretches, followed by a moment of reflection on their performance and areas for improvement.