Gymnastics 1 - Lesson 3

In the third lesson of Gymnastics 1 for Year 4 students, the learning objectives are centred around performing and evaluating a gymnastics routine that features contrasting balances. The success of the lesson is measured by the pupils' ability to demonstrate a variety of balances and shapes, critically evaluate and enhance their performances, and create both low and medium-level shapes and balances within their routines. Key vocabulary terms such as 'tension', 'balance', 'entrance', 'transition', 'fluency', 'exit', 'low level shape', and 'medium level shape' are introduced to enrich the students' understanding of gymnastic terminology. Equipment required for the lesson includes cones to delineate the safe zone, safety gymnastics mats, a number of hoops, and a few bibs to identify specific roles during activities.

The lesson begins with a 10-minute warm-up where the teacher sets out a safe zone using perimeter cones and leads the pupils through various movements such as jogging, hopping, skipping, and running, all while emphasising the importance of 'scanning' for space. A game called 'Space Invaders' is played, where 'aliens' (taggers) attempt to capture 'astronauts' (runners), who can be rescued by their teammates. The main part of the lesson, lasting 30 minutes, involves pupils performing a series of balances, such as the Low Level Straddle, Star Balance, Front Support Balance, and Pencil Balance, among others. Pupils work in pairs to create a short routine that includes three contrasting balances and transitions, and they perform their routines to the class for evaluation. The lesson concludes with a cool-down activity, 'How Tall, How Small?', where pupils reflect on their performance and discuss improvements for the future.