New
New
Year 5

Sequences to include counter balance on apparatus

I can create a counter balance sequence with a partner on apparatus incorporating flow accurate timing.

New
New
Year 5

Sequences to include counter balance on apparatus

I can create a counter balance sequence with a partner on apparatus incorporating flow accurate timing.

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: quality sequences require a variety of travelling movements considering direction, level, unison, canon and flow.
  2. Think: evaluating ideas on apparatus including different levels and connection points creates interesting balances.
  3. Think: moving out of counter balances requires evaluation to ensure flow without pauses and to improve if necessary.
  4. Connect: trusting our partner to create ideas on apparatus to maximise the quality of the balances shows great teamwork.
  5. Feel: striving to improve the ideas we create and ensuring they are high quality requires integrity.

Keywords

  • Flow - moving from one action to another without stopping

  • Counter balance - a pushing balance where we maintain the desired shape in a stationary position completely still

  • Sequence - combination of controlled movements and balances that have been linked together in a particular order

Common misconception

One partner ends up bearing more weight than the other, leading to instability. Pupils may try complex counter balances before they have mastered the foundational skills.

Show examples of counter balances where pupils are evenly distributing their weight. Make sure pupils can perform basic counter balances with quality before they attempt more complex balances.


To help you plan your year 5 physical education lesson on: Sequences to include counter balance on apparatus, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

Always check the apparatus for damage or instability. Provide pupils with progressively difficult tasks on apparatus, starting with working at lower levels to develop confidence. Team work is important when using apparatus. Encourage pairs to support or assist one another.
Teacher tip

Equipment

10 mats, 4 benches, 4 agility tables, wall bars

Content guidance

  • Risk assessment required - physical activity

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

4 Questions

Q1.
Which muscles will always help with stability in your counter balance?
biceps
Correct answer: core
triceps
Q2.
What do we have to develop with our partner to make sure we work safely?
Correct answer: trust
determination
power
Q3.
What do we call the equipment we use in gymnastics to make our sequences more creative?
mats
floor
Correct answer: apparatus
Q4.
When we think of lots of ideas of how to connect to our partner in a counter balance, what skill are we showing?
Correct answer: creativity
flow
trust

4 Questions

Q1.
If we improve the flow of our sequences, what do we try to remove?
balances
movements
Correct answer: pauses
Q2.
What word do we use to describe performing a movement at the same time as our partner in a sequence?
Correct answer: unison
canon
balance
Q3.
If you always strive to perform your best and always want to improve, what are you showing?
Correct Answer: integrity
Q4.
What do we call a combination of movements that have been linked together?
mirroring
Correct answer: sequence
flow