Lesson 6 - Throwing for Distance
Movement Mastery Adventures
•Year 2
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we throw objects further using our whole body?
Learning Objectives
- To develop overarm throwing technique for maximum distance
- To understand the key body positions for powerful throwing
- To improve accuracy and control in throwing movements
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct sideways stance for throwing
- Students will show improved throwing distance through proper technique
- Students will explain key teaching points for distance throwing
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around perimeter of teaching area
Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls, bean bags made from socks
Used for marking lines and landing spots
Alternative: Chalk marks, rope, masking tape
For measuring throwing distances if needed
Alternative: Pre-marked distances on ground
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in a high arc
Standing with your side facing the target, not front-on
Stepping forward with the foot opposite to your throwing arm
Continuing the throwing motion after releasing the beanbag
Standing steadily with weight evenly distributed
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic overarm throwing action
- Understanding of safe space and equipment handling
- Ability to work cooperatively with a partner
Current Skills
- Sideways stance for throwing
- Opposite foot stepping technique
- Throwing for maximum distance
- Self-assessment and improvement
Next Steps
- Throwing for accuracy at targets
- Introduction to athletic throwing events
- Combined throwing and catching sequences
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Sideways stance is fundamental for distance throwing
- Opposite foot forward generates maximum power
- High elbow position creates optimal throwing arc
- Follow-through pointing at target improves accuracy
- Whole body coordination increases throwing distance
- Progressive practice builds confidence and skill
- Self-assessment develops independent learners
Common Misconceptions
- Front-on stance is better - correct with sideways demonstration
- Throwing harder means throwing further - emphasise technique over force
- Only arm muscles are used - demonstrate whole body involvement
- Same foot forward as throwing arm - practice opposite foot stepping
- Low elbow position is more comfortable - show benefits of high elbow
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, positive reinforcement system
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time, simplified technique focus, larger equipment for easier handling
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured beanbags, verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance for body positioning
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, visual signals for start/stop
physical disability
- Seated throwing variations, adapted equipment size/weight, modified distance expectations
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Vocabulary development, giving clear instructions to partners, describing technique improvements
Science
Forces and motion, how muscles work together, understanding of power generation
PSHE
Setting personal goals, celebrating achievements, working cooperatively with partners
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move actively around teaching area to observe all students, position at side for clear demonstration visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for sideways stance, elbow position, and stepping action; monitor safety protocols
Intervention Points
Stop activity immediately if unsafe throwing occurs; provide individual technique support as needed
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for clarity; demonstrate from multiple angles; use students as positive examples
Verbal Cues
- •'Side on like a fence!'
- •'High elbow, point to the sky!'
- •'Step and throw!'
- •'Point where you want it to go!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor space or large sports hall
Surface Check
Level surface free from holes, wet patches, or debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check beanbags for split seams or loose filling
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify throwing equipment is appropriate weight for age group
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Students hit by thrown objects
- •Collisions when collecting equipment
- •Slips and falls during movement activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear throwing lanes established with safe zones
- •Only throw when partner is ready and watching
- •Controlled collection procedures for all equipment
- •Teacher controls start and stop of all throwing activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all throwing activities
- •Move between pairs during practice to monitor technique and safety
- •Ensure clear communication for start/stop commands
Emergency Procedures
First aid kit accessible, clear evacuation route established, mobile phone available for emergency calls