KS3 · Physical education · Year 8
Small group performances in canon and unison
Gymnastics jigsaw: technical fluency and group performance analysis
Learn it. Recall it. Make it stick.
IllumED Slides
IllumED · 1/10
Your learning goal
I can perform a routine with a mix of dynamics, using unison and canon and in large groups.
1 of 10
Small group performances in canon and unison: slides adapted from the imported teaching text; recall questions created from its keywords, learning points and common mistakes. Self-check practice, with no automatic grading or XP. Answers stay on this page and are cleared when you leave.
What you’ll learn
I can perform a routine with a mix of dynamics, using unison and canon and in large groups.
Key learning points
- Move: when performing in unison, use beat counts to ensure all movements are synchronised and in time.
- Move: visual cues can ensure that timing is cohesive which enhances the quality of the performance.
- Think: performing jumps and rolls in canon can add interest to a performance.
- Feel: incorporating a range of dynamics into a performance builds creativity.
- Connect: working with others to perform in canon and unison builds trust to hit the correct timing.
Words to know
- unison
- partners do the same moves at exactly the same time, perfectly matching each other's timing and movements
- canon
- when performing a sequence of movements, group members do the same order of moves but at a different time
- dynamics
- refers to the execution of movements with speed, power and fluidity to enhance the overall energy and impact of the routine
Common mistakes
When performing in unison, some students may be slightly ahead or behind affecting overall synchronisation. If pupils don't move at the correct intervals in canon, the sequence looks uncoordinated.
Use a clear count-in or rhythm (e.g. counting beats out loud or clapping) and practise slowly before increasing speed.
For parents, carers and teachers
- When creating longer group sequences, pupils will need more time to choreograph their routines. You should ensure that as groups combine, they take choreography from each group so that all groups ideas are represented in the final performances.