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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can create a sequence of 3 mirrored movements that flow, with extension and control, on a variety of apparatus.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: quality mirrored movements on apparatus with control and extension must create a mirror image within our pair.
      2. Think: creating mirrored movements on a variety of apparatus requires decision making to ensure the movements flow.
      3. Connect: performing mirrored movements on apparatus requires communication to ensure fluidity and accurate timing.
      4. Feel: testing and creating high quality mirrored movements on apparatus with a partner requires self-motivation.

      Keywords

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

      • Quality - the good characteristics of the performance that suggest the movements and balances are performed correctly

      • Variety - having lots of different apparatus to choose from and use

      Common misconception

      Pupils move in the wrong direction so they are parallel instead of mirroring. When pupils perform their sequence on apparatus, they lose control, extension and flow.

      Practise mirrored movements to create muscle memory. Pupils should adapt their sequences to work on apparatus so they don't lose quality. Pupils can also focus on communication to help improve the quality of their sequence on apparatus.

      Teacher tip

      Whenver you are using apparatus, revisit any safety requirements that you may need to discuss with pupils. Use music with a strong beat to help pupils develop better timing. Encourage simple movements performed well, rather than complex movements which look messy.

      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.
      What should quality mirrored movements include?

      control and flexion
      Correct answer: control and extension
      control and silence

      Q2.
      How can we show we are motivated to perform at our very best?

      change partners
      give up
      Correct answer: keep practising

      Q3.
      What do we do with our fingers and toes when they are extended?

      Correct answer: point them
      nothing
      flex them

      Q4.
      What can we add to our sequences if we remove pauses?

      balances
      Correct answer: fluidity
      canon

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      If we perform a movement symmetrically to our partner, what is this called?

      sequencing
      Correct answer: mirroring
      extending

      Q2.
      What are we trying to maintain in our sequences when performing using a variety of apparatus?

      unison
      canon
      Correct answer: flow

      Q3.
      What could we change in our sequences to add more variety?

      Correct answer: levels and speed
      partners
      flexibility and strength

      Q4.
      What word do we use to describe performing movements and balances really well?

      Correct Answer: quality

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