Lesson 1 - Running Competitions and Relays
Foundational Athletics: Building Technique and Competitive Confidence
•Year 3
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Mark lanes for sprinting track and circular track boundaries
Alternative: Marker spots, chalk lines
One per relay team, bright colours for visibility
Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls, foam tubes
For timing races and providing feedback
Alternative: Smartphone timer apps
For setting up accurate track distances
Alternative: Pre-measured rope or marked ground
Clear team identification for competitions
Alternative: Coloured cones to hold, house team shirts
Key Vocabulary
Running as fast as possible over a short distance
Running at a steady, controlled speed that can be maintained
A stick passed between runners in a relay race
The marked path each runner must stay in during races
A team race where runners take turns carrying a baton
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
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