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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can create a sequence in canon using a range of movements and balances that flow.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: creating a sequence of movements in canon means we move one after the other.
      2. Think: moving in canon requires accurate timings to ensure fluidity in the performance, with one partner always moving.
      3. Think: selecting the movements and balances to perform in canon requires decision making so we can perform correctly.
      4. Connect: taking the lead and counting the timings throughout the sequence helps our partner move with accurate timings.
      5. Feel: not giving up and persevering through the challenge requires resilience.

      Keywords

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

      • Accurate timings - performing movements and balances at the exact time you planned

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

      Common misconception

      Pupils think that moving in canon means one person moves, then there is a pause before the next person moves, so the sequence becomes disjointed.

      Explain to pupils that we need to ensure that one pupil is always moving or balancing to ensure the sequence flows.

      Teacher tip

      Mix up the pairings to ensure pupils work with a variety of partners. Provide lots of examples of movements in canon and only add balances into the sequences when pupils are ready.

      Equipment

      1 mat between 2 pupils (optional)

      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 type of gymnastic sequence involves moving in perfect time with a partner?

      Correct answer: unison
      canon
      asymmetrical

      Q2.
      What do we have if we can move from one action to another without stopping?

      extension
      stillness
      Correct answer: accurate timings

      Q3.
      How can we describe a sequence?

      apparatus linked together
      Correct answer: actions linked together
      space linked together

      Q4.
      When we show resilience, what does this help us with?

      getting frustrated
      resting
      Correct answer: applying maximum effort

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What type of sequence have we created with a partner if we move one after the other?

      unison
      Correct answer: canon
      solo

      Q2.
      Linking movements and balances together creates what?

      an action
      an extension
      a sequence

      Q3.
      What can taking the lead help with when creating a sequence?

      Correct answer: keeping accurate timings
      taking over
      shouting loudly

      Q4.
      What are you showing if you don’t give up and persevere throughout the challenge?

      decision making
      leadership
      Correct answer: resilience

      To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Canon in sequences, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...