Welcome, PE educators, to another insightful blog from Elite Performance Northwest! As passionate providers of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for PE teachers, we understand the significance of delivering effective lessons that empower students with practical skills. In this blog, we will delve into the art of teaching guidance in GCSE & A-Level PE, using the engaging platform of trampolining to illustrate the concepts of visual, verbal, manual, and mechanical guidance.

Why Guidance Matters?

Guidance is the backbone of skill development in Physical Education. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, enabling students to convert conceptual knowledge into tangible actions. Trampolining, with its inherent focus on body control and spatial awareness, serves as an ideal medium to teach guidance.

1. Visual Guidance: Painting the Perfect Picture

Visual guidance involves providing students with a clear visual representation of the skill or movement. In trampolining, this could mean showing videos or images of perfect trampoline techniques. By displaying correct forms and body positions, you give your students a target to aspire to.

2. Verbal Guidance: Words That Mold Movements

Verbal guidance involves using precise language to describe and instruct movements. While teaching trampolining, your verbal cues should be succinct yet informative. For example, instructing students to “tuck in your knees to your chest while in mid-air” helps them grasp the technique effectively.

3. Manual Guidance: Hands-On Refinement

Manual guidance entails physically manipulating a student’s body to help them understand the correct movement. During trampolining sessions, you can assist students by gently adjusting their posture, ensuring they experience the correct body alignment firsthand. Here, an internal link to a blog post or video demonstrating manual guidance techniques could be immensely helpful.

4. Mechanical Guidance: Equipment as Your Ally

Mechanical guidance involves utilizing equipment to guide movement. In trampolining, this might involve using resistance bands to aid in achieving specific postures or employing spotting rigs to ensure safe landings. These tools not only enhance skill acquisition but also provide students with a tangible sense of progress.

Integrating Guidance into Trampolining Lessons

Now, let’s explore how to integrate these guidance techniques into your trampolining lessons:

  1. Warm-Up Visualisation: Begin the class with a visualisation exercise, having students imagine their ideal trampoline routine. This kickstarts their understanding of visual guidance.
  2. Cue Cards: Distribute cue cards with succinct instructions for various trampoline techniques. This encourages students to internalise verbal guidance.
  3. Partner Practice: Pair up students for partner practice. One can provide manual guidance to the other, allowing for a tactile understanding of movements.
  4. Guided Stations: Set up stations with different mechanical guidance tools. Rotate students through these stations to experience diverse methods of guidance.

Remember, practical application is key. Let students practice these guidance techniques through repetitive drills, gradually refining their skills. Ensure you adapt the plan according to the needs and skill levels of your students, and ensure safety measures are in place while using mechanical guidance tools.

Empowering Your Teaching with Elite Performance Northwest

At Elite Performance Northwest, we believe in equipping PE teachers with the tools to create impactful learning experiences. Our CPD sessions delve into advanced teaching methodologies, ensuring you stay at the forefront of physical education instruction. To explore more about teaching guidance and refining practical application through trampolining, check out our upcoming workshops here.

Conclusion

Guidance is the cornerstone of skill development in PE, and trampolining offers an exciting platform to apply this concept. By integrating visual, verbal, manual, and mechanical guidance techniques into your trampolining lessons, you can empower your students to excel in GCSE & A-Level PE. Remember, effective guidance not only refines movements but also nurtures a deep understanding of the sport.

So, let’s bounce our way to better teaching and outstanding student achievements!