Stunt Basics

### Stunt Basics

**Objective**:
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to safely perform basic partner stunts and construct simple human pyramids while understanding the importance of spotting and safety.

**Materials Required**:
- Mats or soft flooring for safety
- Cones or markers for space designation
- Hand sanitizers
- Chart paper and markers
- Pictures or videos of professional stunts
- Whiteboard and markers

### 1. Introduction and Explanation (10 minutes)

**Overview**:
Introduce the concept of stunts, focusing on safety and teamwork.

**Teacher's Dialogue**:
"Good morning, everyone! Today, we are going to explore something really fun and active: Stunt Basics. We'll learn how to work with partners and in groups to create simple formations, just like the professionals do in the circus or in cheerleading. But remember, safety is our number one priority. We will begin by understanding how to perform these stunts safely. Let's start by looking at some pictures of professional stunts. See how the team members work together and trust each other to create amazing shapes. Teamwork and spotting—helping watch out for each other—are crucial."

"Let's talk about what spotting is. Spotters watch carefully and help their partners maintain balance. Can anyone think of a time when you had to watch out for a friend? That's the sort of teamwork and trust we're talking about."

### 2. Setting Up and Starting the Activity (10 minutes)

**Overview**:
Organize the space and ensure students understand the basics of partnering.

**Teacher's Instructions**:
"Now, let's set up our space for practice. We'll need some safe areas to work in, so let's place these cones to mark our spaces. Everyone, please find a partner. Remember, your partner today is your teammate, so you must listen to each other and communicate."

**Teacher's Dialogue**:
"Make sure you always have enough space, like these mats here, to practice safely without bumping into others. Each group gets its own mat. Once you're ready, raise your hand, and I'll come to check."

"We'll start with some basic balance exercises. Facing your partner, reach out and hold each other's hands. Now, try to lean back slowly, keeping each other's weight balanced. Do you feel how you need to trust your partner? Great! This exercise helps us understand how to distribute and balance our weight together."

### 3. Main Activity (20 minutes)

**Step 1: Partner Lean (5 minutes)**
- **Overview**: Practice leaning while maintaining balance and trust.
- **Teacher Says**:
"Now that we've got the basics, let's keep working on our Partner Lean. Each pair should now turn side to side, making sure you're holding each other's hand. Slowly lean away while balancing with your inner foot. If you feel off balance, just adjust slightly and try again. Spotters, stay ready to help catch or guide your partner if needed."

**Step 2: Mini Pyramid (10 minutes)**
- **Overview**: Create small human pyramids with 3-4 students.
- **Teacher Says**:
"It's time for some teamwork with mini pyramids! Let’s work in small groups of 3 or 4. Two of you will kneel on the mat side by side, while the lightest member gets on top gently. Keep your movements controlled. Spotters should stand on both sides, ready to support. Let’s build it slowly and safely!"

**Step 3: Reflection and Feedback (5 minutes)**
- **Overview**: Reflect on the activity and provide/receive feedback.
- **Teacher Says**:
"Now, let's talk about how that felt! Did you feel safe? Was everyone aware of their roles, like holding steady or spotting? Take a moment to think and share with your partner one thing you did well and one thing you'd like to improve next time."

### 4. Wrapping Up and Review (20 minutes)

**Conclusion**: Reflect on the day's activity and its importance.

**Teacher's Dialogue**:
"Great job today, everyone! You all worked well in your teams, supported one another, and learned the basics of stunt safety. Remember, what we learned today applies to many real-life situations too. Trust and communication make any team stronger."

"Before we go, let's each say one thing we enjoyed about today's lesson and something we learned about stunts. I'll start. I really enjoyed seeing how well you all worked together, and I learned that even simple pyramids need a lot of teamwork."

"Lastly, remember to always practice safely and keep practicing the balance and trust exercises we did today, even at home with family. They help build strength and coordination. Thank you all for a fantastic lesson. Let's cheer for a job well done. Ready? 1, 2, 3... Teamwork!"

"Before leaving, don't forget to sanitize your hands. See you all next time for more fun activities!"