Moving Body Parts Through Rhythmic Activities for Primary 4

Moving our body parts I

Performance Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. explain the meaning of locomotor movement;
2. mention the features of locomotor movement;
3. move body parts by walking, running, jumping, etc.

Understanding Body Movement

The human body is designed to move in many ways. Movement helps people to play, work, exercise and explore their surroundings. Some movements keep the body in one place, while others help to move from one place to another.

Meaning of Locomotor Movement

Locomotor movement refers to any movement that takes the body from one place to another.

These movements are important for daily activities like going to school, playing games or moving around the house. They involve using the legs, feet and sometimes the arms to propel the body forward, backward or sideways.

Features of Locomotor Movement

There are many different ways to move the body from one place to another. These are called features of locomotor movement. Each movement uses the body in a slightly different way.

The main features of locomotor movement include:

1. Walking: Moving by placing one foot in front of the other, always keeping one foot on the ground.
2. Running: Moving quickly by taking steps where both feet are off the ground for a short moment.
3. Skipping: A combination of a step and a hop, alternating feet. It has a bouncy rhythm.
4. Sliding: Moving sideways without crossing the feet, keeping the body low to the ground.
5. Hopping: Jumping on one foot and landing on the same foot.
6. Jumping: Pushing off with both feet and landing on both feet.
7. Leaping: A long jump or a big step over a distance, usually from one foot to the other.

Performing Locomotor Movements

Practising locomotor movements helps to build strength, balance and coordination. It is important to perform these movements correctly and safely.

How to Walk

Walking is a basic locomotor movement used every day. It involves a steady, controlled pace.

The procedure for walking involves the following steps:

1. Stand tall with the head up and shoulders relaxed.
2. Swing the arms gently back and forth in rhythm with the legs.
3. Step forward with one foot, placing the heel down first, then rolling onto the ball of the foot and toes.
4. Push off with the back foot as the other foot steps forward.
5. Keep a steady pace, ensuring one foot is always on the ground.

How to Run

Running is a faster version of walking, where both feet are briefly off the ground.

The procedure for running involves the following steps:

1. Lean slightly forward from the ankles.
2. Lift the knees higher than when walking.
3. Push off the ground with the balls of the feet.
4. Swing the arms more vigorously, bent at the elbows, to help propel the body forward.
5. Land lightly on the balls of the feet.

How to Skip

Skipping is a fun, rhythmic movement that combines a step and a hop.

The procedure for skipping involves the following steps:

1. Step forward with one foot.
2. Hop on that same foot.
3. Immediately step forward with the other foot.
4. Hop on that second foot.
5. Continue this step-hop, step-hop pattern, alternating feet.
6. Use the arms to help with balance and rhythm.

How to Slide

Sliding is a sideways movement that keeps the body low and balanced.

The procedure for sliding involves the following steps:

1. Stand with feet together, facing forward.
2. Step sideways with one foot.
3. Bring the other foot to meet it, without crossing over.
4. Repeat the step-together motion, moving continuously in one direction.
5. Keep the knees slightly bent and the body low.
6. Change direction by stepping with the other foot first.

How to Hop

Hopping involves jumping and landing on the same foot.

The procedure for hopping involves the following steps:

1. Stand on one foot, lifting the other foot slightly off the ground.
2. Bend the knee of the standing leg slightly.
3. Push off the ground with the ball of the foot.
4. Jump upwards and land softly on the same foot.
5. Use the arms for balance.
6. Practise hopping on both the left and right foot.

How to Jump

Jumping involves pushing off with both feet and landing on both feet.

The procedure for jumping involves the following steps:

1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Bend the knees and swing the arms backward.
3. Push off the ground forcefully with both feet at the same time.
4. Swing the arms forward and upward to gain height.
5. Land softly on the balls of the feet, bending the knees to absorb the impact.

How to Leap

Leaping is a long, powerful jump or step, often used to cover a greater distance or clear an obstacle.

The procedure for leaping involves the following steps:

1. Start with a short run or a strong step.
2. Push off forcefully from one foot.
3. Extend the body forward and upward, reaching out with the arms.
4. Land on the other foot, bending the knee to absorb the landing.
5. The body is airborne for a longer period than in a regular jump.

Safety Tips for Movement Activities

When performing any locomotor movements, safety is important to prevent injuries.

Important safety tips include:

1. Always warm up the body with light stretches before starting any vigorous activity.
2. Wear comfortable sports clothes and appropriate footwear, such as sneakers.
3. Perform movements in an open space, like a playground or field, away from obstacles.
4. Listen to the body and rest when feeling tired.
5. Drink water to stay hydrated, especially during long periods of activity.
6. Follow instructions from a teacher or adult during organised activities.