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Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can create a sequence of movements using twists and turns that flow while travelling along a curved pathway using the apparatus.

Key learning points

  1. Move: linking quality movements along a curved pathway requires twists and turns as we move on and off the apparatus.
  2. Think: moving over, under, along and through the apparatus to create a curved pathway sequence requires imagination.
  3. Connect: considering others' feelings and needs when sharing the apparatus demonstrates excellent empathy.
  4. Feel: courage helps us bravely try different ways to twist and turn on the apparatus creating a curved pathway sequence.

Keywords

  • Twist - to rotate the body or a body part around or bend into a curled or spiralled shape

  • Curved - not straight, rounded with a gentle bend

  • Transition - the movement into and out of one gymnastics action to another

Common misconception

Balances are not held still for long enough.

Practise balancing still and remind pupils that they should be held still for about 4 seconds. Pupils can try focusing on a fixed spot to help them keep still. If they close their eyes to balance, they will wobble - try this too!

Teacher tip

The apparatus list is for example only; use whatever is available to you. Including ladders or bars will enhance the learning to include hanging balances. This lesson does not use zoned apparatus, which encourages creativity and allows pupils to move freely. Remind pupils not to stand and queue.

Equipment

15+ floor markersmats, benches, gymnastics tables, climbing frames/wall bars

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - physical activity

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Prior knowledge starter quiz

4 Questions

Q1.
How do we keep safe on the apparatus?

Correct answer: look for others
look down
look up

Q2.
How do we land quality jumps?

bend our elbows
Correct answer: bend our knees
bend our toes

Q3.
What position are our legs in a piked position?

bent
curved
Correct answer: straight

Q4.
What word describes the movement from one action to another?

Correct answer: transition
turning
twisting

4 Questions

Q1.
What happens when we practise?

nothing
Correct answer: we improve
we pretend

Q2.
How long should we hold balances still?

2 seconds
Correct answer: 4 seconds
6 seconds

Q3.
What do we do with our fingers and toes in quality actions?

bend them
Correct answer: point them
squeeze them

Q4.
Which roll makes you turn and face the opposite direction?

egg roll
forward roll
Correct answer: teddy bear roll

To help you plan your 2 physical education lesson on: Curved pathways on apparatus, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...