Lesson 5 - Overarm Throwing with Run-up
Whole-Body Athletics Basics
•Year 1
•Athletics
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How can we throw further and safer by using our whole body?
Learning Objectives
- To develop overarm throwing technique with proper body positioning
- To practice throwing with a run-up to increase distance
- To understand and apply safety rules during throwing activities
Key Outcomes
- Students will throw using correct overarm technique
- Students will combine running with throwing to achieve greater distance
- Students will demonstrate safe practices and comment on others' techniques
Equipment & Resources Required
Arranged safely in throwing area collection point
Alternative: Pool noodles, foam throwing sticks
Placed at varying distances in safe throwing zone
Alternative: Cones, chalk circles, rope circles
20cm gaps between bars for springy jumps
Alternative: Pool noodles, rope, canes
6m apart in straight line with safety zones
Alternative: Cones with canes, foam barriers
Cane rests loosely on cones for easy displacement
Alternative: Rope between cones, elastic band
Flat on ground with clear approach areas
Alternative: Chalk ladders, tape markers on ground
One per team, stored at each relay station
Alternative: Foam tubes, bean bags, tennis balls
Key Vocabulary
Throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in a downward arc
Continuing the throwing movement after releasing the object
Standing with non-throwing side facing the target
The approach run before throwing to build momentum
Keeping the javelin level and straight with the ground
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic underarm throwing patterns
- Standing throwing with bean bags
- Understanding of aiming and direction
Current Skills
- Overarm throwing technique development
- Body positioning and alignment
- Run-up coordination with release
Next Steps
- Advanced throwing techniques
- Competitive throwing events
- Measuring and recording distances
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Overarm throwing requires sideways body positioning for maximum power
- Javelin must remain parallel to ground for accuracy and safety
- Follow-through is essential for technique development and distance
- Technical vocabulary use demonstrates deeper understanding
- Circuit rotation system builds independence and responsibility
- Peer assessment develops analytical and communication skills
- Safety protocols are non-negotiable in athletics activities
Common Misconceptions
- Face-on throwing position is more accurate - actually reduces power significantly
- Throwing harder always means throwing further - technique is more important
- High jump bar should be rigid - must fall easily for safety
- Only successful attempts should be celebrated - effort and technique improvement matter more
- Technical language is only for older students - Year 1 can learn and use appropriate vocabulary
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Regular position changes, active role responsibilities, frequent positive feedback
dyspraxia
- Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, peer buddy support
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones for breaks
visual impairment
- Bright coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance for position
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations, clear hand signals, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Modified throwing distances, seated throwing variations, alternative jumping activities
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, descriptive language for movement
Maths
Measuring throwing distances, counting jumps and attempts, timing activities
Science
Forces in throwing - push and pull, trajectory and gravity effects
Geography
Direction and angles in throwing, spatial awareness and positioning
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central location during circuits for maximum visibility, close supervision of throwing station
Observation Focus
Technical development in throwing, safe practices, peer interaction quality
Intervention Points
Incorrect throwing technique, unsafe equipment use, negative peer interactions
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for clarity, show incorrect then correct technique, involve students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Sideways stance!'
- •'Parallel javelin!'
- •'Follow through!'
- •'Safe collection!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large indoor hall or outdoor area minimum 30m x 20m with clear throwing zone
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, clear of water, obstacles, or uneven areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Only foam javelins used - no hard implements
- •High jump bar must fall easily when touched
- •Hurdles appropriate height and easily displaced
- •Jumping bars secure but safe if contacted
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Javelin throwing - risk of striking others
- •Jumping activities - falls and collisions
- •Circuit rotations - student management and awareness
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear throwing boundaries with collection protocol
- •Supervised circuit rotations with stop signals
- •Safety briefing before each activity
- •Teacher positioning for maximum visibility
- •Buddy system for equipment setup/pack away
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Central position during circuit activities
- •Clear sight lines to throwing area
- •Active movement between stations
- •Emergency stop whistle ready
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid response, incident reporting if required