Zigzag pathways
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create a sequence of movements that flow while travelling along a zigzag pathway.
Key learning points
- Move: linking movements on zigzag pathways requires control when moving side to side and changing direction with flow.
- Move: adding balances to our quality movements on zigzag pathways requires control, pointed fingers and toes and flow.
- Think: trying different ideas to link together on a zigzag pathway shows imagination and decision making.
- Connect: helping others to improve when they struggle to perform movements shows great empathy.
- Feel: consistently trying our hardest and striving to improve the quality of our movements demonstrates courage.
Keywords
Zigzag - a line or route with abrupt alternate right and left turns
Pathway - the route (or path) from one place to another
Control - performing movements silently and keeping muscles tight
Common misconception
Pupils only stand on 1 leg when asked to add a balance, or perform a straight jump off apparatus.
Encourage creativity by suggesting balances on different body parts or at different levels and remind them of a variety of jumps. Celebrate creativity.
Teacher tip
When talking to pupils between practices, ensure they 'stand like a gymnast'- with their feet together, hands by their sides, muscles tight and standing tall. This will show you who has good body control and it is good for behaviour management.
Equipment
30+ floor markers, 10-15 tall cones, chalk (optional)
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which gymnastics action do we hold still?
Q2.What part of the head touches the floor in a forward roll?
Q3.What do we call a combination of linked actions?
Q4.How do we show control in gymnastics?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What do we call the route from one place to another?
Q2.How can we describe a straddle shape?
Q3.How do we move in a zigzag pathway?
Q4.Why do we balance on a variety of body parts?
To help you plan your 2 physical education lesson on: Zigzag pathways, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 2 physical education lesson on: Zigzag pathways, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 1 physical education lessons from the Gymnastics: linking movements and balances unit, dive into the full primary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.