Link Units for Gymnastics, Games and Dance
Key Stage 2 - 3 Transition
by Val Sabin 2004
 The transition from primary school to secondary school can be
an anxious but exciting time for children. In Year 6 teachers
know their children very well because they are with them all day
and
take them for all subjects, including PE
and games.
In Year 7 children are likely to have different teachers for
different subjects, longer lessons, different teaching styles and
new people, systems and procedures to get used to.
One subject where children can experience many of the differences
between schools is physical education. Some of the differences
can include:- designated changing rooms; the wearing of a PE
uniform; specialist teachers for different areas of the subject;
different
teaching styles; taking a register before the lesson; different
groupings; larger, different spaces and equipment; longer lessons;
showers, and the availability of more extra-curricular activities.
The transition time can also cause problems for the secondary
teacher receiving Yr 7 children from a number of different
primary schools.
Even if they have been following a similar scheme of work,
the experiences, expectations and range of ability will still
vary.
How does the secondary teacher find the appropriate level
of material and delivery?
The challenge is knowing where to pitch the first unit of
work in an activity area and how to provide opportunities
for pupils,
whilst being sensitive to their different needs.
The link units for gymnastics, games and dance contained in this
manual are age appropriate and developmentally suitable for children
in the transition period. They provide suitably complex material
in a safe, progressive framework. Those who have experienced the
appropriate level of work in primary school will be able to recall
and revisit a range of activities and skills set in an interesting
context whilst those who have had less experience or who are less
confident will learn the necessary skills, principles and activities
in a non threatening environment. All children will be encouraged
to consolidate knowledge and skills already learnt and be challenged
to adapt and extend their performance and understanding.
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