Choose exam board for KS4 Computer Science (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 English
Choose exam board for KS4 French
Choose exam board for KS4 Geography
Choose exam board for KS4 German
Choose exam board for KS4 History
Choose tier for KS4 Maths
Choose exam board for KS4 Music
Choose exam board for KS4 Physical education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Religious education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Spanish

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can move, balance and roll in time with my partner.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: performing a variety of locomotive movements in sequence requires control and fluidity.
      2. Move: tucking your chin during a forward roll protects the neck, keeps the head aligned, and ensures a controlled roll.
      3. Think: rolling is a type of locomotive movement that can enhance the skills demonstrated in a pairs sequence
      4. Feel: completing a roll is challenging, resilience and bravery are essential to overcome difficulties and gain success.
      5. Connect: executing moves in time with a partner requires precise coordination and trust to ensure safety and fluidity.

      Keywords

      • Forward roll - a gymnastics move where you start in a standing position, tuck your head down, and roll forward on the ground like a somersault

      • Locomotion - moving the body from one place to another through a variety of controlled movements.

      • Safety - performing movements in a way which avoids harm, risk or danger.

      Common misconception

      With forward rolls, pupils may not tuck their chin, leading to discomfort. They may struggle to generate enough momentum to complete the roll.

      Emphasise tucking the chin to protect the neck and practise rocking back and forth from a crouched position to develop momentum. Break each roll down into manageable steps.

      Teacher tip

      When teaching rolls, start with rocking and balancing before moving on to full rolls. Break each roll down into manageable steps. By encouraging lots of peer assessment, pupils can make great progress without relying solely on the teacher. Encourage pupils to help each other.

      Equipment

      1 mat each

      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.
      When linking movements in a sequence, what should you try to perform with?

      speed
      noise
      Correct answer: flow

      Q2.
      If you discuss ideas with your partner and listen to each other when developing sequences, what skill are you showing?

      Correct answer: communication
      strength
      determination

      Q3.
      What can you vary in your sequence to make it more visually appealing?

      Correct answer: levels
      partner
      flow

      Q4.
      What is a series of linked movements and balances called?

      a skill
      Correct answer: a sequence
      suppleness

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which part of our body should we roll on when performing a safe roll?

      neck
      head
      Correct answer: shoulders

      Q2.
      Which of the following words best describes locomotion?

      Correct answer: movement
      balance
      skill

      Q3.
      What part of the body are you protecting by tucking your chin when you perform a forward roll?

      Correct Answer: the neck, neck

      Q4.
      What skill are you showing by continuing to try and learn how to do a forward roll even though you may find this difficult?

      balance
      Correct answer: resilience
      communication

      To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Locomotion and partner work, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...