Cessna 172 Instructor reported excessive control inputs while landing during a training flight; resulting in a hard landing. The Instructor took control of the aircraft and performed a go around then returned for a landing.

Narrative

This report details an incident that occurred during a private pilot training lesson. The primary focus of this lesson was to improve the student's proficiency in aircraft control during basic maneuvers; specifically focusing on unassisted takeoffs and landings.The lesson began with a comprehensive briefing outlining the planned activities. The student was tasked with performing pattern work with touch-and-go landings; followed by a departure to the west for additional maneuvers. The specific objectives for the student included:Demonstrating coordinated airplane attitude control.Performing unassisted takeoffs.Maintaining proper communication and adhering to traffic pattern procedures.Executing landings with minimal instructor assistance.Maintaining altitude within +/- 225 feet and headings within +/- 15 degrees during straight-and-level flight.Recognizing and recovering from stalls.Displaying a basic understanding of attitude instrument flying and simulated emergency landing procedures.The lesson proceeded as planned; with the student demonstrating successful checklist completion and aircraft control during the initial takeoff and pattern entry. He maintained clear communication with the Tower and followed established traffic patterns as expected.During the student's second approach to landing; he maintained a normal descent rate with an airspeed between 64 and 76 knots. The aircraft's position on the glideslope was confirmed by the Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) showing two white and two red lights.The student initiated the flare maneuver at the designated aiming point while reducing throttle to idle. While maintaining good ground effect; the instructor commended the student for his centered approach and encouraged him to hold his attitude for a smooth landing.In attempting to maintain his position; the student inadvertently pulled back on the yoke a half inch; causing a slight but manageable rise in the aircraft's pitch (balloon). This maneuver was well within the correctable range to proceed with the landing.However; the student then made an abrupt control input by pushing the nose down. This resulted in a hard landing with the nose gear contacting the runway first; followed by a bouncing motion (porpoising). A common error that was not so extreme to create noticeable damage. To ensure safety; the CFI immediately took control of the aircraft; removed the student's hands from the flight controls; and initiated a go-around procedure.Following the go-around; the CFI regained control of the aircraft and returned to a safe altitude for a debriefing with the student. The debriefing focused on the importance of maintaining smooth control inputs during landing flare maneuvers and avoiding excessive pitch corrections. The student acknowledged his mistake and expressed a clear understanding of the proper procedures.The remainder of the lesson was adjusted to address the identified issue and provide additional practice on proper landing techniques and maneuvers.Once landed the CFI reported the incident to the assistant chief flight instructor and well as our top maintenance inspector.