Turn Orientation (TO)
INTRODUCTIONThe Roll Orientation skill develops the ability to transition from one body position to another, specifically focusing on changing between front (prone) and back (supine) positions, and recovering to a vertical position. It is characterized by side rolling between floating positions before moving to an upright position. Becoming proficient with the Roll Orientation skill develops Orientation Competency.
The Distance Swim is an assessment tool designed to evaluate an individual's Propulsion Competency endurance. It measures the ability to propel for a continuous period while at or near the surface, with no specific requirements for form, technique, or body position. The Distance Swim is performed as a single-effort swim, rather than as a “survivability test”, which would allow periods of rest using Stationary Surface Competencies, such as floating and treading. Because it is an assessment tool, (rather than a skill or activity), it does not directly contribute to the development of a competency— it is a measurement of a specific aspect of a competency.
The Turn Orientation skill is defined as the following:
Body
Body positioned vertically
Turn Sequence
Begin from a vertical position with head above surface
Rotate 360º
Continue rotating to face a safe exit or stationary support
Recover to a position supported by a wall, flotation aid, or other stationary object
Breathing
Breathing controlled and regular
Test course
To begin the skill, the student must be in a vertical position in water that is overhead. If the student is supported by a wall, flotation aid, or other stationary object, they must independently let go of the support to begin the skill. While remaining in a vertical position, the student will turn their body 360º so they are facing the same direction they started. If necessary, students must then continue to rotate until they face a safe exit, flotation aid, or other stationary object, and may then grab onto the support to complete the skill.
Scoring
The following scoring rubric lists the gradients of key requirements and deficiencies that provide an overall description of different competence levels.
A single score of 1 - 4 is assigned based on the instructor’s judgment of the student’s performance.
✔
1
Exhibits any of the following:
✖ Does not attempt to turn
2
Performs all of the following:
✔ Attempts to turn
Exhibits any of the following:
✖ Unable to maintain a self-supported vertical position
✖ Turns less than 180º
3
Performs all of the following:
✔ Maintains a vertical body position
✔ Rotates at least 180º
✔ Holds breath or has controlled breathing
Exhibits any of the following:
✖ Rotates less than 360º
✖ Does rotate to face a safe exit or stationary support.
4
Performs all of the following:
✔ Maintains a self-supported vertical body position
✔ Rotates 360º to face a safe exit or stationary support
✔ Holds breath or has controlled breathing