Point and patch balances
I can hold my body weight on different parts of my body and perform counter balance and counter tension holds with a partner.
Point and patch balances
I can hold my body weight on different parts of my body and perform counter balance and counter tension holds with a partner.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Move: maintaining equal weight distribution between each partner ensures stability and balance.
- Move: holding weight on hands requires an engaged core to keep the body aligned and prevent strains.
- Think: holding your own/your partner's weight on different body parts is important when performing paired balances.
- Feel: repeated practice with a partner builds up confidence to try more complex balances.
- Connect: counterbalancing with a partner requires trust and clear communication to maintain counter tension.
Keywords
Counter balance - a pushing balance where we maintain the desired shape in a stationary position completely still
Counter tension - a pulling balance where we maintain the desired shape in a stationary position completely still
Stability - keeping your body steady and balanced while performing skills or holding positions
Common misconception
Pupils may think that a partner balance is a counter balance. One pupil pulls harder or doesn’t pull enough, leading to a collapse of the position. Pupils do not have a secure grip with one another.
Show the difference between a partner balance and a counter balance. Encourage pupils to communicate with their partners pulling gently at first, then increase force gradually to find the balance point. Grip using wrists as an alternative to hands.
To help you plan your year 7 physical education lesson on: Point and patch balances, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 7 physical education lesson on: Point and patch balances, 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 Gymnastics: body control and paired sequences unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
1 mat each
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
