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Lesson 1 - Running Competitions and Relays

Foundational Athletics: Building Technique and Competitive Confidence

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Year 3

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Athletics

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1h 5min

Big Question

How can we use proper running technique and teamwork to compete fairly and successfully in athletics events?

Learning Objectives

To demonstrate correct sprinting and distance running techniques in competitive situations
To work collaboratively in teams during relay races and distance competitions
To understand and apply pacing strategies in different types of running events

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully complete sprinting races using correct head, arm and leg techniques
Students will demonstrate effective baton changes in relay races
Students will understand the importance of pacing in distance events and apply appropriate tactics

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

20-30

Mark lanes for sprinting track and circular track boundaries

Alternative: Marker spots, chalk lines

Relay Baton

8-12

One per relay team, bright colours for visibility

Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls, foam tubes

Stopwatch

2-3

For timing races and providing feedback

Alternative: Smartphone timer apps

Tape Measure

For setting up accurate track distances

Alternative: Pre-measured rope or marked ground

Bibs

4 sets of different colours

Clear team identification for competitions

Alternative: Coloured cones to hold, house team shirts

Key Vocabulary

Sprint

Running as fast as possible over a short distance

Pace

Running at a steady, controlled speed that can be maintained

Baton

A stick passed between runners in a relay race

Lane

The marked path each runner must stay in during races

Relay

A team race where runners take turns carrying a baton

False Start

Starting to run before the 'Go' command is given

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running in straight lines
Understanding of fast and slow movement
Simple team cooperation skills
Following instructions and safety rules

Current Skills

Sprinting technique with correct head, arm and leg action
Pacing strategies for distance running
Baton changing technique in relay races
Competitive running tactics and team organisation

Next Steps

Advanced starting techniques and false start rules
Complex relay strategies and changeover zones
Personal best tracking and improvement goals
Leadership roles in team athletics events

Milestone Indicators

Maintains correct sprinting form under competitive pressure

Successfully completes baton changes without dropping

Demonstrates understanding of pacing through race performance

Shows sportsmanship and team cooperation throughout competition

Key Teaching Points

Sprinting technique requires head up, bent elbows driving backwards, and running on balls of feet
Lane discipline is essential for safety and fair competition in all races
Pacing is crucial for distance events - starting too fast leads to exhaustion
Relay success depends on smooth baton changes with palm-up receiving technique
Mixed-ability teams ensure fair competition and support for all ability levels
Sportsmanship and encouragement are as important as winning
Strategic thinking enhances performance in both individual and team events

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Looking down helps you run faster. Reality: Head up improves speed and safety
Misconception: Straight arms are better for sprinting. Reality: Bent elbows create more powerful drive
Misconception: Distance running should start with a sprint. Reality: Pacing prevents early exhaustion
Misconception: Baton changes should be done stationary. Reality: Moving changes are faster and more efficient
Misconception: Only fast runners matter in team events. Reality: All team members contribute to success
Misconception: Competition is only about winning. Reality: Effort, improvement, and sportsmanship are equally important

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear role definitions, use movement breaks between races

dyspraxia

Practice baton changes multiple times, use larger/lighter equipment, allow extra time for coordination

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, use visual schedule for race order, offer quiet observation zone

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured cones for lane marking, provide verbal running partner, use sound cues for starts

hearing impairment

Use visual starting signals, clear hand gestures for instructions, written race rules displayed

physical disability

Adapt distances for wheelchair users, modify baton passing for limited mobility, include alternative timing roles

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Timing races, measuring distances, calculating laps and team scores, understanding place values in results

Science

Understanding how muscles work during different types of running, heart rate changes, forces and motion in sprinting

Geography

Using directional vocabulary, understanding spatial concepts in lane positioning and track layout

PSHE

Teamwork skills, dealing with winning and losing, supporting others, building confidence through achievement

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between finish line and sidelines for optimal viewing of all races and safety monitoring

Observation Focus

Watch for technique application, lane discipline, and signs of fatigue or distress

Intervention Points

Step in if lane violations occur, technique breaks down significantly, or safety concerns arise

Demonstration Notes

Use side-on demonstrations for arm technique, emphasise exaggerated movements for visibility

Verbal Cues

•'Head up, arms pumping!'
•'Stay in your lane!'
•'Pace yourself for the distance!'
•'Palm up for the baton!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 30m clear area for sprint track plus circular track space

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check relay batons have no sharp edges or splinters
•Ensure cones are stable and won't trip runners
•Verify all measuring equipment is safely stored

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between runners
•Falls due to surface conditions or fatigue
•Overexertion during competitive activities
•Baton strikes if dropped or thrown

Risk Mitigation

•Clear lane markings and adequate spacing between runners
•Emphasise controlled stopping after finish lines
•Monitor students for signs of exhaustion and provide rest periods
•Teach safe baton handling and strictly enforce no throwing rule

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position at finish line to manage safe stopping
•Monitor relay changeover zones for safe baton transfers
•Watch for students who may be struggling with pace or fatigue

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, ensure other students remain safe