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Matching and mirroring sequences

Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can create a sequence with a partner that includes quality matching and mirroring movements on apparatus, ensuring flow and accurate timing.

Key learning points

  1. Move: quality matching and mirroring movements require performing with consistent control and extension on apparatus.
  2. Think: designing the sequence on apparatus requires careful planning to ensure flow and accurate timing.
  3. Connect: to ensure accurate timing throughout the sequence we must communicate with our partner and work together.
  4. Feel: committing to ensuring we have accurate timing throughout the sequence requires self-motivation.

Keywords

  • Mirroring - performing movements together while creating a mirror image of each other

  • Matching - perform exactly the same movements as a pair/group

  • Accurate timing - moving from one action to another without stopping

Common misconception

Pupils struggle to distinguish between a matching and mirroring movement. Pupils struggle to execute their movements simultaneously.

Encourage pupils to work with peers to check whether a movement is matching or mirroring. Pupils should work on communication to improve their synchronisation.

Teacher tip

When pupils develop extended sequences, they may lose flow due to focusing on remembering the different elements. Encourage pupils to practise repeatedly to improve the overall quality and simplify movements if they are too complex.

Equipment

1 mat between two, 4 benches, 4 gymnastics tables, wallbars

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.
If we perform back to back and then facing each other, what are we changing?

partners
Correct answer: formation
apparatus

Q2.
When we show excellent flow in our sequences, what do we avoid?

Correct answer: pauses
precision
progression

Q3.
If we want to perform a matching movement, in direction do we travel in relation to our partner?

diagonally
opposite
Correct answer: the same

Q4.
If our partner faces us and extends their right arm, and we extend our left arm, what movement are we performing?

matching
Correct answer: mirroring
flexing

4 Questions

Q1.
If you keep working hard to improve your sequence until the final performance, what are you showing?

Correct Answer: motivation

Q2.
How can we improve our synchronisation with our partners?

Correct answer: better communication
change partners
include apparatus

Q3.
When we move from one action to another in a pairs sequence without stopping, what are we showing?

accurate counting
Correct answer: accurate timing
accurate pauses

Q4.
What can we change throughout our sequences to add variety and creativity?

kit, partner, strength
flexibility, pauses, balances
Correct answer: levels, direction, speed

To help you plan your 6 physical education lesson on: Matching and mirroring sequences, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...