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Lesson 4 - Javelin Pull Throw Technique

Movement Mastery

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Year 3

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use the pull throw technique to accurately send a javelin to our target?

Learning Objectives

To demonstrate the pull throw technique for javelin throwing
To throw with accuracy and distance using proper form
To select appropriate throwing techniques for different game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will perform the javelin pull throw with correct grip and stance
Students will demonstrate improved accuracy in target-based throwing games
Students will understand when to use different throwing techniques tactically

Equipment & Resources Required

Foam Javelins

6-8 javelins

Check all javelins are in good condition with no sharp edges

Alternative: Pool noodles, lightweight throwing sticks

Softballs

20-30 balls

Ensure balls are evenly distributed between teams

Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls

Dish Cones

12-16 cones

Use different colours to clearly mark zones and boundaries

Alternative: Spots, bean bags as markers

Measuring Tapes

For measuring distances and setting up throwing lines

Alternative: Pre-marked distance lines

Key Vocabulary

Javelin

A light spear designed to be thrown as far as possible in athletics

Pull Throw

A throwing technique where the arm is pulled through past the head to generate power

Weight Transfer

Moving body weight from the back foot to the front foot during the throw

Accuracy

The ability to hit a specific target or land in a designated area

Distance

How far the javelin travels through the air before landing

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic overarm throwing action
Understanding of weight transfer in movement
Experience with target-based throwing activities

Current Skills

Javelin grip and stance technique
Pull throw movement pattern
Tactical application in game situations

Next Steps

Run-up approach for javelin throwing
Advanced throwing techniques
Competition-based athletics activities

Milestone Indicators

Consistent correct grip without prompting

Smooth weight transfer during throw

Accurate throws to target from 10m distance

Key Teaching Points

Safety must be maintained throughout - one thrower at a time, controlled collection
Javelin grip with palm facing upward is crucial for proper technique development
Weight transfer from back foot to front foot generates power and accuracy
Pull throw action past the head, not a push, creates effective javelin flight
Tactical application in games shows real understanding of technique purpose
Historical and cultural connections make learning meaningful and memorable
Individual improvement focus rather than comparison builds confidence and motivation

Common Misconceptions

Pushing the javelin forward rather than pulling it through past the head
Same-side leg forward as throwing arm instead of opposite leg positioning
Thinking power comes from arm strength alone rather than whole-body coordination
Believing faster throwing always means better results rather than accurate technique
Assuming javelin throwing is only about distance rather than accuracy and control

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear movement boundaries, regular active engagement, positive feedback system

dyspraxia

Simplified technique breakdown, larger equipment, extra practice time, step-by-step visual guides

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available, consistent verbal cues

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured javelins and balls, verbal descriptions of targets and distances, partner guidance for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, visual signals for start/stop/safety

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, shorter distances, adapted grip techniques, larger target areas

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances, angles of release, calculating improvements, data collection and recording

Science

Forces in throwing (push/pull), trajectory and gravity, muscle groups used in throwing

Geography

Countries where javelin is popular, Olympic venues, mapping distances achieved

History

Ancient Olympic Games, javelin as hunting tool, warrior training in different cultures

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand to side of throwing area with clear view of all students and throwing direction

Observation Focus

Watch for correct grip, stance, and safe throwing technique; note tactical improvements in games

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe throwing, poor technique affecting safety, or game rule violations

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Always show perfect technique from multiple angles, use slow motion for complex movements, emphasise safety throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Palm up for power!'
•'Pull it past your head!'
•'Step and transfer that weight!'
•'Accuracy beats power!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 15m clear throwing area with additional 10m safety zone beyond

Surface Check

Indoor hall with non-slip surface, outdoor grass area if weather permits

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all foam javelins for damage or sharp edges before use
•Ensure soft balls are appropriate size and condition for safe throwing
•Verify cones and markers are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Javelin strikes from poor throwing technique or direction
•Collisions during collection phase
•Slips during throwing action or game movement

Risk Mitigation

•Strict one-at-a-time throwing rule enforced
•Clear throwing direction away from other activities
•Controlled collection only on teacher signal
•Adequate spacing during warm-up activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all throwers and collection area
•Monitor throwing technique for safety compliance
•Watch for students entering unsafe areas during activities

Emergency Procedures

Immediate stop signal, check for injuries, appropriate first aid, incident reporting as required