Rolling into Action

Overview

Unit: Gymnastics Fun Foundations
Lesson: 2 of 5
Duration: 30 minutes
Class size: 25 students
Age group: Reception (ages 4-5)
Subject: PE – Gymnastics
Focus: Forward and backward rolls
Curriculum links:

• Physical Development (Early Years Foundation Stage - EYFS) – Moving and Handling: Children show good control and coordination in large and small movements. They move confidently in a range of ways, safely negotiating space.
• Physical Education Programme of Study (Key Stage 1 - National Curriculum, adapted for Reception): Develop fundamental movement skills, including basic gymnastic shapes, balances, and rolls with increasing control and confidence.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of the session, pupils will be able to:

• Demonstrate a controlled forward roll using correct body positioning.
• Demonstrate a controlled backward roll with support.
• Understand and apply basic safety principles when rolling.
• Show improved balance, coordination, and confidence during rolling movements.

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Resources

• Gym mats (one per group of 5 children to ensure safety and space).
• Soft foam blocks or wedges (to assist with posture and positioning if needed).
• Visual aids: large laminated flashcards with step-by-step images of forward and backward rolls.
• Music player with calm, upbeat music for warm-up and transition phases.
• Cones or markings on the floor for spatial awareness exercises.

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Lesson Structure

1. Welcome & Warm-up (5 minutes)

• Gather children in a circle on the mats.
• Play a simple "Follow the Leader" warm-up incorporating movements such as: stretching arms high, touching toes, gentle twisting, and balancing on one leg.
• Focus on breathing and body awareness, prompting children to focus on how their bodies move and balance.
• Incorporate gentle rolling movements across the floor (e.g., rocking forwards and backwards on hands and knees) to prepare muscles.

2. Introduction to Rolling (5 minutes)

• Teacher-led demonstration showing each roll using the laminated flashcards and live demonstration on the mat.
• Break down key points:
  • Forward roll: tuck chin, round back, push off with hands, roll over shoulders, legs tucked.
  • Backward roll: tuck chin to chest, push hands into mat, roll back over shoulders, keep legs bent initially.
• Safety talk: emphasise the importance of protecting the head, moving slowly, and listening to the teacher.

3. Guided Practice in Small Groups (15 minutes)

• Divide class into five groups of five, each with one adult helper (teacher + 4 adults/helpers if possible).
• Each group works on mats in a designated area to ensure safety and personal space.
• Stepwise practice:
  • Stage 1: Practice tucking chin and crawling forward or backward whilst on hands and knees to build body awareness.
  • Stage 2: Assisted forward rolls using spotters for support, focusing on shoulder roll rather than head.
  • Stage 3: Assisted backward rolls with spotters gently guiding backs and legs.
• Adults provide immediate positive feedback, correcting posture gently.
• Rotate so each child attempts both rolls with support.
• Incorporate rolling relay games: children roll from one cone to another, encouraging friendly competition and motivation.

4. Cool Down & Reflection (5 minutes)

• Children lie flat on mats, stretching out gently.
• Lead a calming breathing exercise to slow hearts and muscles down.
• Circle time discussion using “thumbs up/thumbs down” to gauge confidence and enjoyment.
• Ask children to say one thing they enjoyed or learned about rolling.
• Reinforce safety and praise effort, encouraging them to try rolling safely at home under adult supervision.

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Differentiation

• Support for less confident movers: Provide extra adult assistance, break movements into smaller, more manageable steps, use foam wedges for extra support and safety.
• Challenge for more able children: Encourage smooth, continuous rolls without stopping, introduce small jumps into the roll or shape variations (e.g., reaching arms overhead).
• Language Support: Use simple, clear instructions supported by visuals. Demonstrate multiple times with role modelling.

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Assessment & Feedback

• Ongoing formative assessment through observation, noting each child’s:
  • Ability to tuck chin and protect head during rolls.
  • Control and smoothness of movement.
  • Confidence in attempting rolls with or without help.
• Use a simple checklist for own records: "Needs support," "Progressing," "Confident."
• Verbal feedback focusing on positive reinforcement and specific guidance (e.g., "Great job keeping your chin tucked!").

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Health & Safety Considerations

• Mats must be securely positioned on non-slip flooring.
• Clear instructions on safe movement and personal space.
• Adult supervision ratio sufficient for spotting and supporting children.
• Remind children to remove shoes and jewelry before the activity.

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Extension Ideas

• Set up an obstacle course incorporating rolling pads, balance beams, and crawling tunnels.
• Link with storytime about animals that roll (hedgehogs, cats) and imitate their movements.
• Invite children to create their own "rolling dance" sequence, combining rolls with stretching and balance poses.

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Reflection for Teachers

• Did children show improved coordination and understanding of rolling techniques?
• Were safety messages understood and followed?
• Did the group sizes and adult support allow safe and effective engagement?
• Consider adjustments for session 3: possibly introducing shapes before and after rolls or emphasizing balance transitions.

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This lesson is designed to be dynamic and playful while meeting the physical development expectations of the EYFS framework, promoting physical confidence and control through foundational gymnastic movements.