We have been learning the fundamentals of movement in our PE lessons, focusing on how to move our bodies safely, confidently and with control. We also linked our PE learning to Science by noticing how our bodies felt during different activities. This helped us understand what it means to move with control and how our bodies respond to exercise.
Running, Changing Direction and Moving Safely
We explored running at different speeds and changing direction. We practised jogging, running and sprinting, thinking carefully about how we could adjust our speed depending on the activity.
One of our favourite games was Aye Aye, Captain! In this game, we jogged around the space and saluted anyone we came face to face with. We had to stay alert, look where we were going and avoid bumping into others. This helped us develop our spatial awareness, coordination and ability to move safely around other people.
Jumping, Landing, Hopping and Skipping
Next, we focused on how to jump and land safely, remembering to bend our knees softly to absorb the impact. We practised jumping in and out of hoops in different ways, learning to aim our jumps and land with control and purpose.
We then explored other fundamental movements, including hopping and skipping. We even challenged a partner to see who could travel across the hall using the fewest jumps or hops! This encouraged us to think carefully about our movements, develop our balance and coordination, and work together in a fun and supportive way.
Learning to Skip with Ropes
All this practice led us to our next challenge: skipping with ropes!
We began with French skipping, working in groups of three to hold the rope, take turns and practise a variety of jumps. We learnt to jump in and out of the rope, jump from side to side and even jump on the rope. We also used a rhyme to help us remember the sequence of our jumps:
England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales…
England (one foot in, one foot out)
Ireland (switch to other foot in, other foot out)
Scotland (switch to other foot in, other foot out)
Wales (switch to other foot in, other foot out)
Inside (both feet in)
Outside (both feet straddle)
On the rails (both feet on the rope)
Once we had developed our confidence with French skipping, we moved on to using our own skipping ropes. We practised a range of skipping skills, including single bounces, double bounces, hopping, skipping backwards, travelling while skipping and skipping jacks.
Throughout these activities, we focused on keeping our bodies upright and holding our hands by our sides to control the rope. Some of the skills were tricky at first, but we showed fantastic perseverance by keeping going, practising and learning from our mistakes. We were proud to see our confidence and coordination improve!
What Have We Learnt?
Throughout this unit, we have developed important fundamental movement skills, including balance, coordination, agility, jumping, hopping and skipping. These skills provide the foundations for many different sports, games and physical activities.
We have also learnt that PE is about much more than developing our physical skills. We have practised working cooperatively with partners and teammates, taking turns, encouraging one another and following rules. We have also explored how to respond positively when we do not win a game, learning that losing is part of playing and that we can always learn something from the experience.
We are excited to build on these skills in our next unit of learning. Well done, everyone, for your enthusiasm, teamwork and determination!
🏡 Try These at Home!
Here are three fun ways to practise your fundamental movement skills at home:
- Speedy Feet! Find a safe, open space and practise jogging, running on the spot and changing direction. Can you move quickly and then slow down while staying in control?
- Jump, Hop and Balance! Create a mini obstacle course using safe objects, such as cushions or floor markers. Practise jumping with soft knees, hopping on one foot and balancing before moving on to the next challenge.
- Skipping Challenge! If you have a skipping rope and a safe space, practise your single bounces, double bounces and hopping skips. How many controlled skips can you complete in a row? Remember, practise makes progress!
