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New
Lesson 3 of 6
  • All years

Floating, kicking, front paddle arm action

I can perform a range of floating positions, an alternating kicking action and demonstrate front paddle arm action correctly.

Lesson 3 of 6
New
New
  • All years

Floating, kicking, front paddle arm action

I can perform a range of floating positions, an alternating kicking action and demonstrate front paddle arm action correctly.

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: performing different floating positions requires kinaesthetic awareness.
  2. Move: front paddle, alternating kicking action requires long legs, pointed toes and pulling requires a continuous pace.
  3. Think: knowing that different floating positions will be more/less challenging in the water requires reflection.
  4. Feel: always working hard and trying your best demonstrates self-motivation.
  5. Connect: when working with others doing mirroring actions, clear communication is important.

Keywords

  • Float - a position the body will be in to remain at the surface of the water

  • Kicking - movement of the legs which produce travel and balance in the water

  • Arm action - movement of the arms which produce travel and balance in the water

Common misconception

Pupils think that you have to perform a font paddle arm action as quickly as you can.

A long and steady pull is more energy efficient and can increase propulsion.


To help you plan your all years physical education lesson on: Floating, kicking, front paddle arm action, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

Adding in movements around the teaching space between activities, e.g. jogging or skipping, will make the lesson more active.
Teacher tip

Equipment

benches, mats

Content guidance

  • Additional qualification required
  • Risk assessment required - physical activity

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Prior knowledge starter quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
How is best to climb out of a swimming pool in an emergency?

Correct answer: over the side
steps
up a slide

Q2.
Why is it important to be able to regain a vertical position from on your back?

to chat
Correct answer: to see
to dive

Q3.
Which part of your body enters the water first when jumping?

head
chest
Correct answer: feet

Q4.
What is required to control the speed and force of a water entry?

Correct answer: self-discipline
respect
timing

Assessment exit quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
Why is it important to have your limbs in the correct position when floating?

for fun
Correct answer: for balance
how it looks

Q2.
How should you lean when performing front paddle?

Correct answer: forwards
backwards
sideways

Q3.
What is front paddle?

Correct answer: a way to travel in the water
a resting position
a floating position

Q4.
Which parts of your body would be clear of the water in a star float on your back?

Correct answer: mouth and nose
feet and ankles
knees and toes