Gymnastics 1 - Lesson 2

In the second lesson of a Year 5 gymnastics series, the objective is for pupils to learn and perform backward rolls with various entrances and exits. The success of this lesson is measured by the ability of the students to create and maintain a tuck shape with balance, confidently roll onto their palms while keeping the chin to chest, rock and roll their bodies, and execute the roll safely. Key vocabulary terms such as 'entrance', 'exit', 'rolling', 'backwards rolls', and 'tuck shape' are introduced, alongside others that describe body positions and movements essential to gymnastics. The equipment required for the lesson includes cones, gymnastic mats, and a few bibs to facilitate the activities.

The lesson begins with a warm-up involving 'Under Overs', where pupils work in pairs to travel under their partner's front support position, focusing on the muscles used to maintain the position and their relevance to rolling and stands. The main part of the lesson involves pupils revisiting rolling techniques, with the teacher demonstrating a backward roll and discussing safety. Pupils then practise with partners, exploring variations such as starting and finishing in a tuck shape and incorporating fluid motion from entrance to exit. The lesson progresses to pupils creating their own differentiated entrances and exits for backward rolls, culminating in performances that showcase their sequences. Finally, the cool-down activity is 'Squat Tag', where pupils are tagged and freed in a game that reinforces the squat balance position, followed by a reflective period where pupils lie on their backs and consider what they have learnt.