Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v3 - Primary 3
Swimming
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Nigeria 2025 app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Swimming
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Nigeria 2025 app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Physical & Health Education
Class: Primary 3
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 2
Theme: Sports And Games
This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.
For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.
Watch on YouTubeSee Facebook postMention basic styles in swimming Demonstrate basic skills in swimming Mention the safety rules in swimming Observe the rules
least 30 minutes to an hour after consuming a heavy meal before engaging in strenuous swimming to prevent stomach cramps, which can be dangerous in water.
7. Obey Lifeguards and Posted Regulations: Insist on strict adherence to instructions given by lifeguards and all rules displayed at swimming facilities. Lifeguards are trained professionals dedicated to safety.
8. Utilize Approved Floatation Devices: For individuals who are not strong swimmers, only use professionally approved life vests or jackets. Warn against relying on inflatable toys (e.g., rings, armbands) which can easily deflate, slip off, or capsize.
9. Enter Water Feet First (Unless in Designated Diving Areas): This cautious approach allows individuals to gauge water depth and avoid unforeseen underwater obstacles. Diving should only be done in designated deep areas under supervision.
1
0. Emergency Preparedness: Although not for students to perform, it is beneficial for the teacher to mention the importance of adults knowing basic first aid and CPR in case of emergencies. body shape (like an arrow).
3. Breath Holding and Breathing Techniques: Dry-land Simulation: Practice holding breath for short periods. Then, practice rhythmic breathing: inhale through the mouth, then slowly exhale through the mouth or nose (imagine blowing bubbles) as the "face" goes under. For freestyle, practice turning the head to the side to "breathe."
4. Kicking: Propelling the body through water using leg movements.
Dry-land Simulation: Flutter Kick: Students sit on the floor, lean back on hands, and perform rapid, small, alternating up-and-down kicks with straight legs, keeping ankles relaxed (as described under Freestyle).
Frog Kick: Students sit and mimic the breaststroke kick: bringing heels towards the buttocks, then pushing legs out and together.
5. Arm Strokes: Propelling the body through water using arm movements.
Dry-land Simulation: As described under the specific styles (Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke), students can stand or lie down and mimic the arm movements. 2.
4. Safety Rules in Swimming These rules are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe swimming experience.
1. Never Swim Alone: Always swim with a responsible adult or friend. Drowning can happen quickly and silently.
2. Adult Supervision is Key: Children should always be supervised by a competent adult when near or in water, regardless of their swimming ability.
3. Know the Water Depth: Always check the depth of the water before entering. Never dive into shallow water. Look for depth markers in pools.
4. No Running Around the Pool: Wet surfaces can be very slippery, leading to falls and serious injuries. Walk calmly.
5. No Rough Play (Horseplay): Pushing, shoving, or dunking others can lead to accidents and injuries. Keep play gentle and safe.
6. Do Not Swim Immediately After Eating: Wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after a heavy meal before swimming to avoid cramps.
7. Obey Lifeguards and Posted Rules: Always listen to lifeguards' instructions and follow any rules displayed at the swimming facility.
8. Use Approved Floatation Devices: If you cannot swim well, use only approved life vests or jackets, not inflatable toys which can easily deflate or tip over.
9. Enter Water Feet First (Unless Diving in Designated Deep Areas): This helps to gauge depth and avoid hitting obstructions.
1
0. Learn Basic First Aid and CPR: While not for Primary 3 students to perform, it's good to mention the importance of adults knowing these skills. This section provides detailed content for the teacher to deliver the lesson on Swimming. 2.
1. Definition of Swimming Swimming is the act of moving the body through water by using arms, legs, and the entire body. It can be done for various reasons such as recreation, exercise, sport, or survival. 2.
2. Basic Styles in Swimming For Primary 3, three fundamental swimming styles are commonly introduced. It is important to note that actual mastery requires in-water instruction, but these descriptions and dry-land simulations help establish foundational understanding.
1. Freestyle (also known as Front Crawl): Description: This is the fastest and most common competitive stroke. The swimmer lies face down in the water, alternating arm strokes and a continuous flutter kick, while rotating the body from side to side for breathing.
Dry-land Simulation: Body Position: Lie on the stomach (or stand bent over).
Arm Movement: Extend one arm forward, then pull it back under the body towards the thigh, mimicking paddling. As one arm pulls, the other recovers above the water (or simulated air) and extends forward. The motion is continuous and alternating.
Leg Kick (Flutter Kick): Keep legs relatively straight, kicking rapidly up and down from the hips, with a slight bend at the knees and relaxed ankles.
Breathing: Turn the head to the side (usually every 2-3 strokes) to take a breath, then return the face to the "water."
2. Backstroke (also known as Back Crawl): Description: This is the only stroke swum on the back. The swimmer alternates arm strokes and a continuous flutter kick, similar to freestyle, but facing upwards.
Dry-land Simulation: Body Position: Lie on the back (or stand upright).
Arm Movement: Extend one arm overhead, palm facing outwards, and pull it down through the "water" towards the hip. As it finishes, the other arm extends overhead and begins its pull. The motion is continuous and alternating.
Leg Kick (Flutter Kick): Similar to freestyle, but while lying on the back. Kick rapidly up and down from the hips.
Breathing: Breathing is generally continuous as the face is out of the "water."
3. Breaststroke: Description: This stroke involves a symmetrical and simultaneous arm movement and a frog-like leg kick. The swimmer lies face down, with a distinct glide phase after each stroke cycle.
Dry-land Simulation: Body Position: Lie on the stomach (or stand bent over).
Arm Movement: Start with arms extended forward, palms together. Sweep arms outwards in a circular motion, then bring them together under the chest. Then, extend them forward again.
Leg Kick (Frog Kick / Whip Kick): Bend knees, bring heels towards the buttocks, then push legs outwards and together in a circular motion, like a frog.
Breathing: Inhale by lifting the head forward during the arm sweep, then exhale as the head returns to the "water" during the glide. 2.
3. Basic Skills in Swimming (Dry-land Simulation Focus) These are foundational skills that contribute to comfort and proficiency in water.
1. Floating: The ability to stay on the surface of the water without sinking.
Dry-land Simulation: Instruct students to lie flat on their backs on the floor/mat, relaxing their bodies and extending limbs, or lie face down with arms and legs extended, imagining relaxation and buoyancy. Explain the concept of the body being light enough to stay on top of water.
2. Gliding: Moving smoothly through the water with minimal effort after a push-off.
Dry-land Simulation: Have students stand, then crouch down, extend arms overhead, and push forward with an imaginary force, maintaining a streamlined body shape (like an arrow).
3. Breath Holding and Breathing Techniques: Dry-land Simulation: Practice holding breath for short periods. Then, practice rhythmic breathing: inhale through the mouth, then slowly exhale through the mouth or nose (imagine blowing bubbles) as the "face" goes under. For freestyle, practice turning the head to the side to "breathe."
4. Kicking: Propelling the body through water using leg movements.
Dry-land Simulation: * Flutter Kick: Students sit on the floor, lean back on hands, and perform rapid, small, alternating up-and-down kicks with straight legs, keeping ankles This section provides comprehensive content for the teacher to facilitate the lesson on Swimming. The practical demonstrations mentioned are understood to be dry-land simulations suitable for a classroom environment, as actual in-water practice requires appropriate facilities and certified instructors. 2.
1. Definition of Swimming Swimming is defined as the act of propelling the body through water primarily using coordinated movements of the arms, legs, and the trunk. It is practiced for a variety of purposes including recreation, physical exercise, competitive sport, or as a survival skill. 2.
2. Basic Styles in Swimming For Primary 3 learners, three fundamental swimming styles are typically introduced. It is crucial to emphasize that true mastery necessitates in-water instruction, but these descriptions and dry-land simulations establish a foundational understanding.
1. Freestyle (also known as Front Crawl): Description: This is generally considered the fastest and most common competitive swimming stroke. The swimmer adopts a prone (face-down) position in the water, performing alternating arm strokes while simultaneously executing a continuous flutter kick. The body rotates rhythmically from side to side to facilitate breathing. Dry-land Simulation (for classroom demonstration): Body Position: Instruct students to lie flat on their stomachs on the floor/mat or stand slightly bent at the waist, mimicking a horizontal body alignment.
Arm Movement: Guide students to extend one arm forward as if reaching into the water, then pull it back in a sweeping motion under the 'body' towards the thigh. Concurrently, as one arm completes its pull, the other arm recovers above the 'water' (simulated air) and extends forward to begin its cycle. The motion is continuous and alternating.
Leg Kick (Flutter Kick): Students should sit on the floor, lean back slightly on their hands for support, and perform rapid, small, alternating up-and-down kicks with relatively straight legs, keeping ankles relaxed and flexible.
Breathing: Instruct students to practice turning their head quickly to one side (typically every 2-3 arm strokes) to 'take a breath,' then return their 'face' to the 'water' (e.g., looking down at the floor).
2. Backstroke (also known as Back Crawl): Description: This is a distinctive stroke performed on the back, making it the only stroke where the swimmer faces upwards. The arm and leg movements are analogous to freestyle, featuring alternating arm strokes and a continuous flutter kick, but with the body supine (face up). Dry-land Simulation (for classroom demonstration): Body Position: Students can lie on their backs on the floor/mat or stand upright, imagining they are floating on their back.
Arm Movement: Guide students to extend one arm overhead, palm facing outwards, and pull it down through the 'water' towards the hip in a sweeping motion. As this arm completes its pull, the other arm extends overhead and begins its pulling phase. The motion is continuous and alternating.
Leg Kick (Flutter Kick): Similar to the flutter kick in freestyle, but performed while imagining lying on the back. Students can sit and kick as described for freestyle, visualizing the back position.
Breathing: Breathing is generally continuous and unrestricted as the face remains out of the 'water.'
3. Breaststroke: Description: This stroke is characterized by its symmetrical and simultaneous arm and leg movements, resembling the motion of a frog. The swimmer lies prone, with a distinct glide phase following each complete stroke cycle. Dry-land Simulation (for classroom demonstration): Body Position: Students can lie on their stomachs on the floor/mat or stand slightly bent at the waist.
Arm Movement: Instruct students to start with arms extended forward, palms together. They should then sweep their arms outwards in a semi-circular motion, bringing them together under the chest, and finally extend them forward again into a streamlined position.
Leg Kick (Frog Kick / Whip Kick): Guide students to bend their knees, bringing their heels towards their buttocks. Then, they should push their legs outwards and powerfully together in a circular motion, simulating a frog's kick.
Breathing: During the arm sweep, students should lift their head forward to 'inhale,' then 'exhale' as their head returns to the 'water' during the arm recovery and glide phase. *2.
3. Basic Skills in Swimming (Dry-land Simulation
This topic on swimming connects to several real-life situations and integrates with various aspects of Nigerian life: Water Safety and Drowning Prevention in Nigerian Communities: Nigeria is crisscrossed by numerous rivers (e.g., Niger, Benue, Cross River), dotted with lakes (e.g., Lake Chad, Kainji Lake), and boasts an extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Many communities live near these water bodies. Learning basic swimming skills and, more importantly, strict adherence to safety rules, is crucial for preventing tragic drowning incidents that sadly occur too often in these areas, especially among children. It fosters a culture of vigilance and caution around water. Recreation, Tourism, and Health Promotion: Swimming is a popular recreational activity in Nigeria, enjoyed at public and private swimming pools, hotels, resorts, and popular beaches like Bar Beach in Lagos or the beaches in Calabar and Port Harcourt. Understanding swimming allows learners to safely participate in these activities, promoting physical fitness and overall well-being. It integrates with tourism, as safe swimming enhances the experience for families visiting recreational spots. Career Opportunities and Skill Development: While at Primary 3, this is a foundational step. Learning to swim can open doors to future career paths such as professional swimmers, lifeguards (essential at pools and beaches), swimming instructors, or even in maritime safety (e.g., Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency - NIMASA). This early exposure highlights the value of the skill beyond just recreation.