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Lesson 6 - Throwing for Distance

Movement Mastery Adventures

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Year 2

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

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

Balls

1 per student (30)

Distribute around perimeter of teaching area

Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls, bean bags made from socks

Cones

Used for marking lines and landing spots

Alternative: Chalk marks, rope, masking tape

Measuring Tapes

For measuring throwing distances if needed

Alternative: Pre-marked distances on ground

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in a high arc

Sideways stance

Standing with your side facing the target, not front-on

Opposite foot forward

Stepping forward with the foot opposite to your throwing arm

Follow-through

Continuing the throwing motion after releasing the beanbag

Balanced position

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

Consistent sideways stance adoption

Visible increase in throwing distance

Ability to coach partner effectively

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