Jumping for height
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can coordinate myself to perform the scissors technique and jump at my highest.
Key learning points
- Move: the non take off knee should be driven upwards to help generate the upward momentum needed to clear the bar.
- Move: landing with the lead leg first then the trail leg, in a 1-2 pattern, ensures a controlled landing.
- Think: approaching the take off from 30-40 degrees is the ideal angle for a successful scissor technique.
- Feel: setting target heights to clear can build confidence and self-belief to try gradually more challenging heights.
- Connect: motivating classmates as they prepare to jump can help them to jump higher.
Keywords
Scissors technique - a method where the athlete clears the bar by jumping over it with a split-legged motion
1-2 pattern - landing in a sequence of lead leg then trail leg
Run-up - the approach made towards the bar before the take off
Common misconception
When learning the scissors technique, pupils often use an incorrect take-off foot, choosing to jump from the foot closest to the bar instead of the foot furthest away.
Allow pupils to practise jumping off their right foot, then their left, before performing the full action to establish which they prefer to take off with. Be observant during full performances and be ready to suggest a pupil changes approach side.
Teacher tip
The flexibility of an elasticated bar removes a lot of fear about getting hurt and as they are looped over the posts, they can be quickly adjusted to suit the next jumper, whereas fibreglass bars take time to adjust at the expense of activity time. Be careful re post-jump tripping on elastic bar.
Equipment
pool noodles, high jump posts, crash mats, elasticated high jump bar, stack of cones, floor markers
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which type of jump is in the middle of the triple jump?
Q2.How might we prompt ourselves about how to perform mid-performance?
Q3.Which word means transitioning from one jump to the next smoothly in triple jump?
Q4.What does giving honest feedback to someone sometimes require?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which foot should you take-off with in the high jump?
Q2.How can motivation from others impact the performer in the high jump?
Q3.What is the pattern for landing when using the scissors technique?
Q4.What angle should we ensure we approach from when using scissors technique?
To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Jumping for height, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Jumping for height, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 3 physical education lessons from the Athletics: run, jump, throw and officiate unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.