Gymnastics 2 - Lesson 1

In the first lesson of Gymnastics 2 for Year 4 students, the primary learning objective is to perform a shoulder stand safely. To achieve this, the lesson outlines specific success criteria: pupils must be able to support their own body weight, perform the stand with their chin tucked to their chest, and create a tuck shape. Key vocabulary introduced includes terms such as 'shoulder stand', 'tension', 'balance', and 'abdominals'. The equipment required for the lesson includes cones to define the safe zone, safety gymnastics mats for the exercises, and a few bibs for certain activities.

The lesson begins with a 10-minute warm-up where the teacher sets out a safe zone with perimeter cones and instructs the class on 'scanning' for space while moving. Pupils engage in jogging, hopping, skipping, and running, with an emphasis on directional play. A game of Front Support Tag is also played, where tagged pupils must adopt a front support position and can be freed by their peers. The main part of the lesson, lasting 30 minutes, involves laying out safety mats and partnering up pupils to practice shoulder stands, with one pupil performing and the other offering support. The lesson progresses to developing a short routine incorporating the shoulder stand, with pupils performing to the class and receiving feedback. The lesson concludes with a 10-minute cool-down focusing on core strength through sit-ups and a reflective discussion on performance and improvement.