Unit Plan 3 (Grade K PE): Jumping & Hopping

Focus: Help students build jumping and hopping coordination through playful practice that develops body control, balance, and confidence in locomotor movement.

Grade Level: K

Subject Area: Physical Education (Locomotor Skills • Coordination • Movement Control)

Total Unit Duration: 2 core sessions + 2 optional sessions (1–2 weeks), 20–30 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students continue developing Kindergarten locomotor skills by exploring how to jump with two feet and hop on one foot in safe, playful ways. At this stage, students benefit from repeated chances to practice takeoff, landing, balance, and body control while moving through fun themes and simple challenges. This unit uses jumping over floor lines and hopping in place as a warm-up and then moves into a Lily Pad Jump game where students travel between hoops as if crossing a pond. The goal is to help students strengthen coordination, improve balance, and feel successful using jumping and hopping in PE.

Essential Questions

• How can I jump and hop with control?
• What helps me land safely on my feet?
• How can I keep my balance when I hop?
• How do I move from one spot to another safely in PE?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Perform jumping and hopping with improving control and coordination.
2. Practice safe takeoff and landing during locomotor activities.
3. Use balance and body control while moving from one target to another.
4. Participate actively in teacher-led locomotor games and stations.

Standards Alignment — Kindergarten (SHAPE America-based custom)

• PE:S1.Ka Perform basic locomotor skills (walk, run, hop, jump, gallop, slide) with control.
  • Example: Students travel across the gym using different locomotor movements on teacher cue.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can jump with two feet.
• I can hop on one foot and try to keep my balance.
• I can land softly and safely.
• I can move to a new spot with control.