Lesson 7 - Throwing for Distance
Movement Skills Exploration
•Year 1
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we throw objects as far as possible using our whole body?
Learning Objectives
- To develop throwing for distance using underarm and overarm techniques
- To understand the difference between underarm and overarm throwing
- To demonstrate stepping forward with opposite foot to throwing arm
Key Outcomes
- Students will throw beanbags with improved distance using correct foot positioning
- Students will select appropriate throwing technique for different distances
- Students will demonstrate balanced stance during throwing activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around perimeter of area for easy collection
Alternative: Soft balls, tennis balls, or bean-filled socks
Use for boundaries, targets, and distance markers
Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk marks
Create clear dividing line for team games
Alternative: Rope, chalk line, or playground markings
Key Vocabulary
Throwing with arm swinging below shoulder level in an upward arc
Throwing with arm moving above shoulder level for maximum power
Stepping forward with the foot opposite to your throwing arm
Standing steady with feet apart and weight evenly distributed
How far an object travels from where it was thrown
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching with two hands
- Understanding of personal space
- Basic balance and coordination skills
Current Skills
- Underarm throwing with step forward
- Overarm throwing technique
- Opposite foot stepping for power
Next Steps
- Throwing for accuracy at targets
- Advanced throwing techniques
- Athletic throwing events preparation
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Opposite foot stepping is crucial for power generation in throwing
- Underarm throws are best for shorter, controlled distances
- Overarm throws generate more power through longer lever action
- Partner cooperation and communication enhance learning
- Technique must be maintained even when increasing distance
- Safety awareness is essential during all throwing activities
- Personal improvement is more important than comparison with others
Common Misconceptions
- Students often step forward with same foot as throwing arm - correct immediately with clear demonstration
- Many believe throwing harder always means throwing further - emphasise technique over force
- Some think overarm is always better - teach appropriate technique selection for distance and situation
- Students may focus only on arm action - emphasise whole body involvement in throwing
- Children often forget to check partner readiness - reinforce communication importance
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use movement breaks strategically
dyspraxia
- Use larger beanbags initially, provide additional demonstration time, allow extra practice with supportive partner
autism spectrum
- Provide clear routine structure, use visual schedules for activity sequence, allow quiet reflection time
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured beanbags, provide verbal descriptions of technique, establish clear audio signals for activities
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations extensively, establish clear visual signals for start/stop, provide written technique reminders
physical disability
- Adapt throwing positions (seated throws), modify distances, use larger/lighter equipment as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring throwing distances, counting successful catches, comparing distances using greater than/less than
Science
Forces and motion in throwing, lever principles in overarm throwing, trajectory and gravity effects
Geography
Direction and distance concepts, spatial awareness and mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Cooperation and teamwork with partners, perseverance when learning new skills, celebrating others' achievements
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position during demonstrations, perimeter during practice for maximum visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for opposite foot stepping, safe throwing technique, partner cooperation
Intervention Points
Step in immediately for unsafe throwing or poor technique that could cause injury
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate techniques slowly first, then at normal speed. Exaggerate key points like elbow position and foot stepping
Verbal Cues
- •'Step with opposite foot!'
- •'High elbow for overarm!'
- •'Point where you throw!'
- •'Check your partner is ready!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m area for distance throwing activities
Surface Check
Even, dry surface free from obstacles and adequate for running and throwing
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check beanbags are intact with no tears or loose filling
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify adequate beanbags for all students (1:1 ratio)
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Beanbag strikes to head or body
- •Collisions during movement activities
- •Slips during throwing actions
- •Overexertion in distance throwing
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear throwing directions established and enforced
- •Adequate spacing between pairs during practice
- •Safe collection procedures taught and monitored
- •Progressive skill development prevents overexertion
- •Clear start/stop signals for all activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during throwing activities
- •Monitor technique to prevent injury from poor form
- •Ensure safe collection procedures followed
- •Watch for fatigue during extended throwing practice
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess any injury, provide appropriate first aid, clear area if needed