Lesson 3 - Shot Put Technique and 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 push objects further than just using our arms?
Learning Objectives
- Develop understanding of pushing technique for throwing distance in shot put
- Learn the three phases of shot put: stance and grip, extension, and rotation with weight transfer
- Apply correct technique to achieve maximum distance while maintaining safety
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct shot put grip and stance
- Students will execute the pushing motion with proper extension and body rotation
- Students will understand the difference between pushing (shot put) and throwing (other events)
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed safely around throwing area with clear boundaries
Alternative: Foam shot puts, weighted bean bags, medicine balls
Placed at regular intervals to mark distances achieved
Alternative: Rope markers, chalk lines, foam markers
For accurate distance measurement and record keeping
Alternative: Metre rulers, pre-marked ground lines
For students to record distances and peer assessments
Alternative: Clipboards with paper, tablet devices
Key Vocabulary
A heavy metal ball that is pushed (not thrown) for distance in athletics
The pushing action used to propel a shot put, different from throwing
Straightening the arm and body to create power and direction
Moving body weight from back leg to front leg to generate power
Turning the hips and shoulders to add power to the put
The way you position your feet and body before putting
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing for accuracy with beanbags and balls
- Understanding of javelin throwing technique from previous lessons
- Experience with athletic throwing events and their differences
Current Skills
- Shot put grip using fingers not palm
- Balanced stance with proper foot positioning
- Sequential body movement: extension, rotation, weight transfer
Next Steps
- Advanced shot put competition techniques
- Comparison of different athletic throwing events
- Application of power generation principles to other sports
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Shot put is pushed with fingers, never thrown like a ball - this is the fundamental difference
- The three phases must be sequential: extension, then rotation, then weight transfer for maximum power
- Proper stance with feet shoulder-width apart provides the stable base for all other movements
- Hip rotation is the key power generator - engage core muscles before arm extension
- Weight transfer from back to front leg creates momentum that adds to distance
- Technique development should always take priority over distance achievement
- Peer assessment develops both observation skills and understanding of technique requirements
Common Misconceptions
- Students often think shot put is just throwing with a heavier ball - emphasise the pushing action difference
- Many believe arm strength alone determines distance - demonstrate how whole body contributes to power
- Students may think faster movement means more distance - show how controlled technique beats rushed attempts
- Common belief that competition is only about distance - reinforce that technique quality is equally important
- Misconception that one phase is enough - demonstrate how combining all three phases multiplies power
- Students may think feedback should focus on what's wrong - model positive, constructive assessment language
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Clear boundaries and throwing lanes, frequent movement between phases, specific role responsibilities
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for coordination, break down phases further, use larger/lighter equipment initially
autism spectrum
- Clear routine and structure, visual sequence cards for three phases, quiet observation space available
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured shot puts, provide verbal cues for direction and distance, tactile marking for stance position
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, written technique cards, partner signing for instructions
physical disability
- Seated shot put variation, lighter implements, adapted grip techniques, modified stance as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances in metres, recording and comparing numerical data, calculating improvements between attempts
Science
Forces and motion - how rotation and weight transfer generate power, momentum and energy transfer
Geography
Understanding distance and measurement, spatial awareness and direction
PSHE
Perseverance when learning challenging skills, fair play in competition, supporting others' learning and development
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at angle to observe both technique and landing area, move between pairs during practice
Observation Focus
Watch for correct grip (fingers not palm), sequential movement through phases, safety awareness
Intervention Points
Step in if students revert to throwing motion, provide individual technique support, ensure fair assessment
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements to show differences between phases, demonstrate both correct and incorrect technique for contrast
Verbal Cues
- •'Push, don't throw!'
- •'Fingers only, not your palm!'
- •'Rotate then extend!'
- •'Feel your weight moving forward!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area or large hall with high ceiling and protective barriers
Surface Check
Level, non-slip surface free from obstacles, adequate landing area for shot puts
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Primary school weight shot puts (1-2kg maximum)
- •Shot puts inspected for cracks or damage
- •Soft-landing shot puts preferred for indoor use
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Shot put striking other students
- •Muscle strain from incorrect technique
- •Slips during weight transfer phase
- •Equipment handling injuries
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear throwing lanes with adequate separation
- •Established throwing direction away from others
- •Proper warm-up and technique progression
- •Supervised equipment handling at all times
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all throwing activity
- •Monitor technique to prevent strain
- •Ensure safe retrieval procedures followed
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, have ice pack available for muscle strains