Movement Skills Basics

Overview

In this 30-minute Physical Education session, students in grades 1-2 will develop foundational movement skills—running, jumping, and throwing—through engaging, age-appropriate activities. These fundamental skills are vital building blocks for physical literacy and align with the British Columbia Physical and Health Education Curriculum (2018). By fostering enjoyment and confidence in movement, this lesson supports children's overall health and lifelong active participation.

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Curriculum Alignment

Curriculum Connections:

• Physical and Health Education K-7 Big Idea:
  • "Physical literacy involves the development of fundamental movement skills that enable lifelong participation in a variety of physical activities."
• Curricular Competencies:
  • Develop fundamental movement skills with growing control and coordination.
  • Apply safe and fair play behaviours during activities.
• Content:
  • Movement skills: running, jumping, and throwing
  • Personal healthy living: Active participation, self-regulation

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate basic running techniques with control and appropriate speed for short distances.
• Perform basic jumping with coordination and balance.
• Show an introductory ability to throw an object over short distances using a fundamental throwing pattern.
• Understand and practise safe behaviours related to movement activities.
• Experience enjoyment and increased confidence in physical activity.

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Materials Needed

• Soft foam balls (one per group of 5 students)
• Cones or markers to designate running and jumping spaces
• Hula hoops (5) for jump targets
• Whistle or signal for transitions
• Open indoor gym space or outdoor field

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction and Warm-Up (5 minutes)

• Teacher gathers students and briefly explains the importance of movement skills in everyday life and play.
• Lead a dynamic warm-up including:
  • Marching on the spot (30 seconds)
  • Gentle jogging around the play space (1 minute)
  • Jumping jacks (1 minute)
  • Stretch arms and legs (1 minute)
• Use encouraging language and maintain a cheerful tone. Students should feel excited to move!

2. Skill Stations (20 minutes)

Set up 3 stations in the gym/outdoor space. Divide the class into 3 groups (~13 students each, sub-divided into smaller groups for each station to maximise participation):

Station	Focus Skill	Activity Description	Assessment Focus
Running Relay	Running	Students run short distances (~10-15 meters) around cones, passing a baton or tag to their teammates in a relay format. Emphasise starting, stopping, and safe spatial awareness.	Observe coordination and safe running form.
Jump for Joy	Jumping	Students jump with both feet to land inside hula hoop targets set at incremental distances. Challenge some to "long jumps" and others to "high jumps" (using small markers).	Look for balance, controlled take-off and landing.
Throw and Catch	Throwing	Using soft foam balls, students throw underarm towards a partner standing 2-3 metres away and attempt to catch. Focus on correct grip, step forward, and release technique.	Monitor basic throwing mechanics and catching readiness.

• Rotate groups every 6-7 minutes with clear whistle signals and quick station transition routines to maintain flow.

3. Cool-Down and Reflection (5 minutes)

• Lead a calm movement cool-down: slow walking, deep breaths, gentle stretches focusing on legs and arms.
• Circle time reflection: ask students "Which movement did you like best and why?" and "How does moving make your body feel?"
• Reinforce positive language related to trying new skills and teamwork.

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Safety Considerations

• Ensure clear boundaries between stations to prevent collisions.
• Use soft equipment to minimise injury risk.
• Remind students about spatial awareness and respect for others’ space.
• Teacher and assistants should circulate actively supervising all groups.

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Assessment and Reporting

• Formative assessment through observation during activities: Is student demonstrating control and effort?
• Provide verbal feedback focusing on improvement and enjoyment.
• Use a simple checklist for teacher reference:
  • Running technique (starting, stopping, control)
  • Jump landing and balance
  • Throwing motion and catching attempt
• Record notes for any student requiring additional support or challenges.

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Extensions and Cross-Curricular Connections

• Literacy: Incorporate action words vocabulary (run, jump, throw) during warm-up or cool-down discussions.
• Math: Count and record the number of jumps or successful throws, integrating basic numeracy skills.
• Social Emotional Learning: Encourage peer encouragement and positive communication during team activities.

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Reflection for Teacher

• How engaged were students in each station?
• Did they understand and demonstrate the fundamental movement skills?
• Were transitions smooth and behaviour managed effectively?
• What modifications could improve inclusivity for diverse learners?

This detailed, interactive approach sets a foundation for the "Active Learning Adventures" unit and inspires young learners to build confidence and joy in movement.