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Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can create a sequence that flows and includes a range of movements and balances, incorporating a change in direction between the actions on a range of apparatus.

Key learning points

  1. Move: sequences include a change in direction, with flow and without stopping, using a range of apparatus.
  2. Think: effective decision making enables us to choose the apparatus we want to use and incorporate a change in direction
  3. Feel: supporting our partner by suggesting ideas and helping them to use the apparatus demonstrates responsibility.
  4. Connect: encouraging our partner if they find it hard, motivating them to keep trying, helps us to work in a pair.

Keywords

  • Direction - changing the course along which we are moving

  • Apparatus - equipment made for a particular task

  • Flow - moving from one action to another without stopping

Common misconception

Some pupils may not recognise the floor as a piece of apparatus.

The floor is a very demanding piece of apparatus because many different skills are required such as leaps, spins, splits, dance and acrobatics. In rhythmic gymnastics, additional apparatus is also used such as clubs, ribbons, hoops and balls.

Teacher tip

Encourage pupils to use the space around the apparatus within their sequence. This will expand the options they have for where and when they perform a turn and change direction, helping to add more variety to their sequences.

Equipment

mats; benches; gymnastic tables; wall bars

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.
Which of these actions might you use to change the direction you are facing?

Correct answer: spin
balance
sink

Q2.
Which of these turns will result in you facing the same direction at the start and end?

quarter turn
half turn
Correct answer: full turn

Q3.
Which of these actions shows you are working cooperatively with your partner?

Correct answer: listening
ignoring others
working alone

Q4.
Which of these approaches is most helpful when trying to find the best ideas?

don't try
try one idea
Correct answer: try different ideas

4 Questions

Q1.
What changes if you skip forwards, perform a three quarter turn and then skip forwards again?

Correct answer: direction of travel
method of travel
apparatus used

Q2.
Why should a change of direction be included in a sequence?

to show strength
to show flexibility
Correct answer: to add interest

Q3.
Which of these is a piece of gymnastics apparatus?

Correct answer: floor
field
court

Q4.
What can you do if your partner is finding something difficult?

ignore them
Correct answer: encourage them
laugh at them

To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Changes in direction on apparatus, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...