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      Jumping on apparatus: canon and unison

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can create a sequence in pairs using canon and unison that includes three jumps on a variety of apparatus.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: quality sequences include flow between jumps and are performed with control and extension on and off apparatus.
      2. Move: moving in canon and unison requires accurate timings and fluidity between the jumps.
      3. Think: knowing how to link the jumps together with flow, using canon or unison requires evaluation and careful planning.
      4. Feel: committing to improving our ideas and striving to ensure we can create a quality sequence requires integrity.
      5. Connect: being able to perform our sequence with accurate timings in canon and unison requires trust and communication.

      Keywords

      • Unison - performing the same movement at exactly the same time as our partner

      • Canon - performing the same movement one after the other in a pair.

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

      Common misconception

      Pupils struggle to communicate when working in bigger groups. Poor timing in unison and canon may result in a lack of flow throughout the sequence. 

      Pupils should communicate and listen to each other's ideas. Pupils should develop ways to help them improve their timing, ensuring there are no long pauses when performing in unison and canon so their sequence still flows throughout. 

      Teacher tip

      Pupils may have to consider adapting their sequences when working with bigger groups so that all pupils can perform the jumps and movements. Alternatively pupils could think of ways to perform a movement in a more simple/complex way to allow all pupils to experience success.

      Equipment

      1 mat between 2, 4 benches, 4 agility tables

      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.
      What should our knees do when preparing to jump in order to push us higher?

      Correct answer: bend
      straighten
      twist

      Q2.
      If we collaborate well with our partner to create a high quality sequence, what are we demonstrating?

      tiredness
      timidness
      Correct answer: trust

      Q3.
      What do we want to create between our jumps and linking movements in a sequence?

      Correct answer: flow
      pauses
      communication

      Q4.
      What word do we use to describe performing the same movement one after the other in a pair?

      unison
      Correct answer: canon
      sequence

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What do we create when we combine movements and balances and link them together?

      timing
      jumps
      Correct answer: sequence

      Q2.
      If we fully commit to improving our ideas and strive to create a high quality routine, what are we showing?

      impatience
      Correct answer: integrity
      unison

      Q3.
      When performing the same movement at exactly the same time as our partner, what is this called?

      sequence
      canon
      Correct answer: unison

      Q4.
      Which of the following could help you to improve your timing in your sequence with your partner?

      Correct answer: eye contact
      head contact
      foot contact

      To help you plan your 5 physical education lesson on: Jumping on apparatus: canon and unison, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...