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Lesson 3 - Power and Accuracy in Throwing

Power, Endurance & Teamwork

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Year 2

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our whole body to throw objects powerfully and accurately?

Learning Objectives

To develop throwing technique that demonstrates power for distance
To attempt accurate throws at various targets using appropriate force
To understand how object properties affect flight patterns and distance

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved throwing power using correct technique
Students will adapt their throwing force for accuracy at different distances
Students will explain differences between throwing various objects

Equipment & Resources Required

Small Foam Balls

1 per student (30)

Pre-distributed around area perimeter for easy collection

Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls

Balls

1 per student (30)

Stored in central container for activity distribution

Alternative: Plastic shuttlecocks, foam cones

Hoops

15-20

Scattered around playing area at varying distances

Alternative: Cones, targets, buckets

Scorecards

1 per group (8-10)

Pre-prepared with hole numbers and par scores

Alternative: Clipboards with paper, whiteboards

Pencils

1 per group (8-10)

Attached to scorecards with string to prevent loss

Alternative: Dry wipe markers for whiteboards

Key Vocabulary

Power

Using your whole body strength to throw as hard as possible

Overarm throw

Throwing with your arm coming over your shoulder from behind your head

Opposite foot forward

Step forward with the foot that's opposite to your throwing arm

Resistance

How the air slows down or changes the flight of objects

Accuracy

Hitting exactly where you are aiming

Shuttlecock

A cone-shaped object with feathers used in badminton that flies differently to a ball

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic underarm and overarm throwing actions
Understanding of aiming at targets
Experience with different ball sizes and weights

Current Skills

Generating power through whole body throwing technique
Adapting throwing force for accuracy at varying distances
Understanding how object properties affect flight

Next Steps

Applying powerful throws in competitive games
Combining throwing with movement and tactics
Advanced understanding of projectile motion

Milestone Indicators

Consistent use of opposite foot forward

Visible shoulder rotation in throwing action

Accurate throws at 80% success rate

Can explain resistance effects on different objects

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise whole-body technique over just arm strength for powerful throwing
Connect muscle strengthening exercises directly to improved throwing performance
Use golf format to make accuracy practice engaging and purposeful
Highlight flight differences between balls and shuttlecocks to teach resistance
Encourage self-differentiation in target selection for appropriate challenge
Build understanding through questioning and student reflection throughout
Maintain focus on technique improvement rather than just competitive success

Common Misconceptions

Power comes only from arm strength - correct by emphasising whole body technique
Muscle 'burn' means you should stop - explain this shows muscles getting stronger
All objects fly the same way when thrown - demonstrate resistance effects with different objects
Throwing harder always means more accuracy - teach about force control for precision
Golf is only played with clubs - show how sporting principles transfer across activities

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with clear transitions, immediate feedback on technique, active roles in all sections

dyspraxia

Extended practice time for technique, simplified movement patterns, extra encouragement and patience

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual activity schedule, quiet space available if overwhelmed by group activities

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of technique, buddy system for guidance during activities

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, visual cues for technique points, ensure student can see teacher during instructions

physical disability

Seated throwing versions available, modified distances and targets, adapted muscle strengthening exercises

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting throws accurately, recording and comparing scores, understanding par system and numerical comparison

Science

Forces and motion - air resistance affects object flight, muscle contraction and strength development

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness during course navigation, understanding distance and positioning

PSHE

Perseverance through challenging muscle exercises, honest self-assessment and score recording, supporting and encouraging others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around area during activities to observe all students, position centrally during demonstrations for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct throwing technique, appropriate force application, honest scoring, and positive group dynamics

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with technique, experiencing excessive fatigue, or showing poor sportsmanship

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for technique points, show comparisons between ball and shuttlecock flight, model positive encouragement

Verbal Cues

•'Opposite foot forward!'
•'Point where you want to throw!'
•'Feel that muscle burn - you're getting stronger!'
•'Notice how the shuttlecock flies differently'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 30m for throwing activities and course setup

Surface Check

Even, non-slip surface free from holes or obstacles that could cause trips during movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Soft balls only - check for damage before use
•Shuttlecocks in good condition with secure feathers
•Hoops laid flat and stable, not creating trip hazards
•Scorecards with attached pencils to prevent loss

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during throwing and movement
•Muscle strain during strengthening exercises
•Trips over equipment
•Objects hitting students

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and throwing directions established
•Adequate spacing maintained between students during all activities
•Progressive muscle strengthening with rest opportunities
•Soft equipment only for all throwing activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups during golf activity
•Monitor throwing technique to prevent strain
•Watch for signs of overexertion during muscle exercises

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if incident occurs, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required