Gymnastics 2 - Unit Overview

The Gymnastics 2 unit for Year 5, part of the Striver Lesson Plans, is crafted to enhance pupils' gymnastic abilities, focusing particularly on vaulting, headstands combined with forward rolls, and jumping rolls. Throughout this unit, students will be encouraged to amalgamate the key skills they acquire into cohesive gymnastic routines. The unit is designed to build upon previous gymnastic knowledge, such as sequencing, creating low and medium level shapes, mastering basic shapes, cat springs, simple vaulting techniques, and the effective use of gymnastic apparatus.

Teaching tips provided in the unit overview suggest a one-hour lesson timeframe, which includes the time needed for children to change before and after the session. Adjustments should be made if the lesson duration is shorter. The unit emphasises the importance of including entrances and exits in performances, with a focus on creative links and three-second balances. It encourages pupils to demonstrate creativity, fluidity, precision, and control in their movements and transitions. Safety is paramount, with guidelines on mat usage and the requirement for pupils to remove shoes and socks. Apparatus lessons can be tailored to the available space and resources. The medium-term plan outlines specific learning objectives and success criteria for each lesson, ensuring a structured progression from vaulting to incorporating complex movements into gymnastic routines.