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      Sequence formation combining individual and pair balances

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can create a sequence, using apparatus, that flows and includes a combination of movements, plus individual and pair balances.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: quality sequences are performed silently, with control, extended fingers and toes, flow and no stopping between.
      2. Move: quality balances are held still; movements into and out of balances will flow without stopping.
      3. Think: making decisions as to the best apparatus to use will improve the quality of a performance.
      4. Feel: taking responsibility for the ideas we try involves being brave to try a range of movements and balances.
      5. Connect: listening to our partners' ideas and trying to create a range of movements and balances demonstrates trust.

      Keywords

      • Extended - stretched fingers and pointed toes

      • Control - being purposeful; moving every body part with thought, precision and balance

      • Flow - moving from one action to another

      Common misconception

      Some pupils may think that successful sequences are long and consist of lots of different movements and balances.

      Successful sequences can be performed with control and flow. They can be short and may repeat some movements if the pupils feel this is the best decision to improve the quality of their performance.

      Teacher tip

      Sometimes we ask pupils to be brave and try a movement for the first time that they might feel unsure about. It is important when we do this that we model our thinking about safety so that when pupils make their own decisions they understand that being brave does not mean being unsafe.

      Equipment

      mats, 1 per pair, 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 words describes a balance performed by one person alone?

      Correct answer: individual
      pair
      group

      Q2.
      Which of these movements travels on your feet only?

      rolling
      cartwheeling
      Correct answer: galloping

      Q3.
      What helps a gymnastic partnership?

      balance
      Correct answer: trust
      movement

      Q4.
      Which of these is a piece of apparatus?

      back
      balance
      Correct answer: bench

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What do we call a combination of actions that link together?

      apparatus
      feedback
      Correct answer: sequence

      Q2.
      How can we describe a sequence that moves smoothly between actions?

      streaming
      flooding
      Correct answer: flowing

      Q3.
      What makes a high-quality performance?

      Correct answer: controlled movement
      doing somersaults
      a long sequence

      Q4.
      How can you show your partner that you trust them?

      shout at them
      boss them around
      Correct answer: listen to them

      To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Sequence formation combining individual and pair balances, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...