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Lesson 7 - Throwing for Distance

Movement Skills Exploration

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Year 1

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

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

Balls

30 (1 per student)

Distribute around perimeter of area for easy collection

Alternative: Soft balls, tennis balls, or bean-filled socks

Cones

Use for boundaries, targets, and distance markers

Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk marks

Sun Markers

10-15 cones

Create clear dividing line for team games

Alternative: Rope, chalk line, or playground markings

Key Vocabulary

Underarm throw

Throwing with arm swinging below shoulder level in an upward arc

Overarm throw

Throwing with arm moving above shoulder level for maximum power

Opposite foot

Stepping forward with the foot opposite to your throwing arm

Balanced stance

Standing steady with feet apart and weight evenly distributed

Distance

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

Consistent opposite foot stepping

Clear difference between underarm and overarm technique

Improved throwing distance over lesson

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