Counter tension
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create a variety of quality counter tension balances with a partner on apparatus.
Key learning points
- Move: quality counter tension balances require pulling away from our partner, holding the balance still and extending.
- Think: ensuring our counter tension balances are creative involves using two different levels and connection points.
- Think: evaluation helps plan how to use different body parts to create counter tension balances on apparatus.
- Feel: creating counter tension balances requires integrity as we strive to create quality ideas on apparatus.
- Connect: trusting our partner is vital as we pull away from each other and hold the counter tension balance still.
Keywords
Counter tension balances - a pulling balance where we maintain the desired shape in a stationary position completely still
Quality - the good characteristics of the performance that suggest the movements and balances are performed correctly
Interesting - different levels and different connection points in the balance
Common misconception
One pupil pulls harder or doesn’t pull enough, leading to an imbalance and collapse of the position. Pupils do not have a secure grip with one another
Encourage pupils to communicate with their partners pulling gently at first, then increase force gradually to find the balance point. Encourage pupils to grip using wrists as an alternative to hands.
Teacher tip
Introduce simple counter tension positions, such as seated pulls or back-to-back leans, before progressing to more complex balances. It may be useful to do some trust exercises such as a trust fall activity or blindfold exercises if you think the group need to develiop trust in one another.
Equipment
1 mat between two, 4 benches, 4 agility tables, wall bars, worksheet
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.How many seconds should you hold a counter balance to show excellent stability?
Q2.If we continue to strive to improve the quality of our work, what skill are we showing?
Q3.If we move from one action to another without stopping, what are we showing?
Q4.What are you showing when working with your partner to develop interesting balances and movements?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.If you perform movements and balances correctly, how would you describe your sequence?
Q2.What word do we use to describe moving at staggered intervals with our partner?
Q3.What type of action is required in a counter tension balance?
Q4.What do we need to work on to ensure our counter tension balance is stable?
To help you plan your 5 physical education lesson on: Counter tension, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 5 physical education lesson on: Counter tension, 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 2 physical education lessons from the Gymnastics: counter balance and counter tension unit, dive into the full primary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.