Introduction to Gymnastics
Primary 4 · Physical Education
Introduction to Gymnastics
Lesson 3 of 3
20 min
Let's begin
Keza and Uwase have learned shapes, balances, rolls and jumps. Now their teacher gives them a challenge.
"Join five moves together into one smooth sequence, and show it to the class." How do you build a sequence that looks like real gymnastics?
A sequence (gymnasts also say routine) is a set of moves joined together, one after another. Here is a simple plan with five parts:
The small movement that joins two moves is called a link: a step, a turn, a slide or a reach. Good links are smooth, with no stopping to think and no extra steps.
| Look for | What it means |
|---|---|
| Control | No wobbles, and steady landings |
| Clear shapes | Straight legs where they should be straight, pointed toes |
| Stillness | Frozen at the start and at the finish |
| Smooth links | Moves flow into each other |
Count together, "one, two, three, four", so you stay in time.
Use two stars and a wish: say two things your friend did well and one thing to make better. For example: "Your star was really wide, and you froze at the end. My wish: tuck your chin more in your roll."
Tip
Still, move, still. Start still, move smoothly, finish still. People remember the first and the last second of your sequence.
Think about each one first, then tap Show answer to check.
Name the five parts of the sequence plan.
Answer: Start shape, balance, roll, jump, finish shape.
Ishimwe runs in, does a star jump, rolls and walks away. Which parts are missing?
Answer: A still start shape, a balance and a still finish shape.
Mutesi held her balance still and landed softly, but her legs were bent in her pencil shape. Give her two stars and a wish.
Answer: Stars: a steady balance and a soft landing. Wish: keep your legs straight and together in the pencil.
What does "in unison" mean?
Answer: Doing the same moves at the same time as your partner.
Design your own sequence: choose one move for each of the five parts.
Answer: For example: pencil, aeroplane balance, egg roll, star jump, tuck finish. Practise it until the links are smooth.
What you learned today
Sources and credits
Written by Ganzaa: the story, the sequence plan and diagram, the checklist and the practice.
Quick check
Put the five parts of the sequence plan in order.
Tap the cards in the right order.
