Jumping Techniques Intro

Overview

Age group: Key Stage 2 (7-9 years)
Duration: 60 minutes
Class size: 30 students
Unit: Jumping Into Fun! – Lesson 1 of 2
Curriculum alignment:

• National Curriculum for Physical Education (England, KS2):
  Develop fundamental movement skills; use running, jumping, throwing and catching in isolation and in combination; participate in team games, developing simple tactics for attacking and defending.
• Physical Education Programme of Study: Emphasis on coordination, balance, and spatial awareness.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, pupils will:

1. Demonstrate correct technique for two-footed and one-footed jumps.
2. Improve coordination and balance through structured jump drills.
3. Engage in teamwork and communication during jumping games.
4. Understand the basic mechanics and safety rules of jumping.

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Resources

• Cones or markers (30)
• Beanbags or small soft balls
• Jump ropes (10)
• Hula hoops (10)
• Stopwatch or timer
• Whistle
• Floor markers (tape or chalk)

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction & Warm-up (10 minutes)

• Gather pupils in a circle. Briefly discuss the importance of jumping in sports and everyday life (e.g., jumping to reach objects, sports activities).
• Dynamic warm-up: (5 mins)
  • 30 seconds jogging on spot
  • High knees (20 steps)
  • Butt kicks (20 steps)
  • Arm circles (both directions, 10 each)
  • Gentle jumping jacks (x10)
• Jumping-specific warm-up: (5 mins)
  • Small hops on both feet, focusing on soft landings (20 secs)
  • Bouncing on one foot, switch feet after 10 seconds
  • Light skipping using jump ropes for 1 minute in pairs

Note: Emphasise listening to signals (whistle) for safety and focus.

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2. Demonstration & Explanation (10 minutes)

• Gather students and model:
  • Two-footed jump: Bend knees, swing arms backward, then forward and jump upward using toes and balls of feet, land softly with knees slightly bent.
  • One-footed jump: Similar arm and knee action but push off and land on the same foot.
• Use simple language and relate to fun imagery, e.g., “pretend you are a frog jumping across a pond.”
• Explain common faulty techniques and corrections: e.g., don’t land flat-footed, use arms to create momentum.
• Use a volunteer to demonstrate, providing constructive feedback.

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3. Guided Practice (15 minutes)

Drill 1: Two-footed jump over cones (7 mins)

• Lay cones 30cm apart in straight lines.
• Pupils jump over each cone with two feet, focusing on controlled landings.
• Encourage a rhythm: bend, swing arms, jump, and land softly.
• Run multiple rounds, gradually increasing speed while maintaining form.

Drill 2: One-footed hop through hoops (8 mins)

• Place hula hoops in a zig-zag pattern on the floor.
• Pupils hop through the hoops on one foot, switching feet halfway through the drill.
• Encourage balance and focus on using arms for momentum.
• For advanced pupils, add beanbags for them to balance on their heads or shoulders while hopping.

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4. Fun Jumping Games (15 minutes)

Game 1: Jump Relay

• Divide class into 5 teams of 6 pupils.
• Set up a relay course: two-footed jump section and one-footed hop section.
• Each pupil completes the course and tags the next in line.
• Award points for technique, speed, and team support.

Game 2: Jump Freeze

• Play music and have pupils jump around the area using their choice of jump (one or two feet).
• When music stops, they must freeze in a jump position and hold balance for 3 seconds.
• Monitor for correct form and encourage controlled landings.

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5. Cool Down & Reflection (10 minutes)

• Gentle stretching focusing on legs, ankles, and calves.
• Have pupils sit in a circle and reflect on:
  • Which jump felt easier/harder?
  • How did your arms help your jumping?
  • Why is balance important when jumping?
• Praise effort, highlight improvement, and set a simple challenge for next lesson: “Try practising these jumps safely at home or in the playground!”

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Assessment & Feedback

• Use formative assessment throughout drills and games by observing pupils’ jumping form, balance, and coordination.
• Provide verbal feedback to individuals and groups.
• Teacher checklist:
  • Can pupils demonstrate both jump techniques?
  • Are pupils landing softly and safely?
  • Do pupils use arms effectively?
  • Are pupils engaged and collaborating during games?

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Differentiation

• Support: Use additional visual prompts or one-on-one modelling for pupils struggling with coordination.
• Challenge: Add distance or height targets for more confident jumpers. Introduce rhythmic counting for jumps.
• Inclusive practice: Ensure safe spacing and adapt drills for pupils with physical disabilities (e.g., use seated jumps or arm movements where necessary).

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Links to Next Lesson

• Next lesson will expand into jumping for height and distance, introducing measurement and personal bests for progression tracking.
• Homework suggestion: Practise jumping on two and one foot safely at home, noting favourite game or jump style.

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By combining creative imagery, structured drills, and collaborative games, this lesson provides active engagement while meeting UK PE curriculum standards for Key Stage 2 fundamental movement development—building a foundation for lifelong physical activity and confidence.