Lesson 2 - Javelin Throwing for Distance
Multi-Event Athletics: Power Development Through Throwing and Jumping
•Year 3
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use our whole body to throw the javelin as far as possible?
Learning Objectives
- To develop correct javelin throwing technique for distance
- To understand how body position and movement affects throwing distance
- To apply the three phases of throwing: stance and grip, extension, and rotation with weight transfer
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate proper javelin grip and stance
- Students will execute coordinated throwing movements using rotation and weight transfer
- Students will evaluate their own and peers' throwing technique and distance achieved
Equipment & Resources Required
Check all javelins for damage, ensure safe tips are secure
Alternative: Pool noodles, foam javelins, or tennis balls on string for safety
Place at 5m intervals from 10m to 30m throwing area
Alternative: Spot markers, bean bags, or chalk lines
For accurate distance measurement and record keeping
Alternative: Trundle wheel or marked throwing area
Include spaces for names, distances, and technique observations
Alternative: Clipboard with paper or digital tablets
Key Vocabulary
A lightweight spear used in athletics for throwing competitions
Stretching the throwing arm up and away from the body during release
Turning the hips and torso to generate power before releasing
Moving body weight from back foot to front foot during the throw
The exact moment when the javelin leaves the thrower's hand
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic overarm throwing patterns
- Understanding of accuracy vs distance throwing
- Experience with lightweight throwing implements
Current Skills
- Javelin-specific grip and stance
- Coordinated rotation and extension
- Weight transfer for power generation
- Technical evaluation and peer assessment
Next Steps
- Advanced javelin techniques with approach steps
- Competitive throwing strategies
- Other field events like shot put and discus
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Weight transfer from back foot to front foot generates throwing power
- Release timing at shoulder level is crucial for distance and accuracy
- Hip rotation initiates the throwing sequence, arm follows
- Balanced stance provides the foundation for all throwing movements
- Progressive skill development leads to better distance than trying for maximum power
- Peer assessment develops technical knowledge and observation skills
- Technique consistency matters more than occasional long throws
Common Misconceptions
- Throwing harder always means throwing further - actually technique and coordination are key
- The arm does all the work - power comes from legs, hips, and core rotation
- Release timing doesn't matter much - actually release point determines flight path
- Competition means abandoning technique - best performers maintain technique under pressure
- Distance is the only measure of success - technique development and improvement matter more
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear movement boundaries, regular technique focus reminders, provide fidget tools during waiting times
dyspraxia
- Break technique into smaller steps, allow extra practice time, use proprioceptive feedback, provide stability aids for balance
autism spectrum
- Clear visual routine cards, defined throwing order, quiet space available, consistent partner pairings, advance warning of activity changes
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured javelins, provide tactile guidance for grip and stance, use sound markers for target areas, pair with sighted buddy
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations extensively, employ hand signals for coaching points, provide written technique cards, ensure eye contact for instructions
physical disability
- Seated throwing variations, shorter lighter implements, modified grip aids, reduced throwing distances with achievable targets
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring throwing distances, comparing measurements, recording data, calculating improvements and averages
Science
Forces and motion, leverage and body mechanics, trajectory and angle of release, energy transfer from body to implement
Geography
Olympic Games locations, athletics around the world, understanding distances and measurement units
PSHE
Goal setting and perseverance, supporting teammates, handling competition pressure, celebrating others' success
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at angle to observe all throwing lanes, with clear view of landing areas and student positions
Observation Focus
Watch for coordinated three-phase technique, safe equipment handling, and positive peer interaction during assessment
Intervention Points
Step in when safety is compromised, technique is deteriorating, or peer feedback becomes unhelpful or negative
Demonstration Notes
Use slow-motion technique breakdown for complex movements, emphasise key body positions, and model excellent sportsmanship throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Chin-knee-toe in line!'
- •'Extend up and away!'
- •'Hip rotation first, arm follows!'
- •'Smooth and controlled, not rushed!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 40m x 20m throwing area, clear run-off zones behind targets
Surface Check
Level grass or athletics track surface, free from holes, debris, or wet areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all javelins for damage, secure tips, and appropriate weight
- •Ensure foam or rubber tips are properly attached
- •Remove any bent or damaged implements immediately
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Javelin strikes from poor throwing direction
- •Collisions during retrieval phases
- •Muscle strain from inadequate warm-up
- •Equipment mishandling during setup
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear throwing lanes with defined boundaries
- •Controlled throwing and retrieval phases
- •Mandatory safety briefing before equipment distribution
- •Minimum 5m spacing between throwers
- •No students behind or across throwing areas
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all throwing lanes simultaneously
- •Monitor equipment handling and carrying procedures
- •Ensure controlled retrieval with no students in throwing zones
- •Watch for fatigue affecting technique and safety
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately with whistle signal, assess any injury following school protocol, have first aid kit accessible