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Lesson 3 - Shot Put Technique and Distance

Multi-Event Athletics: Power Development Through Throwing and Jumping

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Year 3

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

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

Shot Put

1 per pair (15)

Distributed safely around throwing area with clear boundaries

Alternative: Foam shot puts, weighted bean bags, medicine balls

Sun Markers

20-30

Placed at regular intervals to mark distances achieved

Alternative: Rope markers, chalk lines, foam markers

Measuring Tapes

For accurate distance measurement and record keeping

Alternative: Metre rulers, pre-marked ground lines

Score Sheets

1 per pair

For students to record distances and peer assessments

Alternative: Clipboards with paper, tablet devices

Key Vocabulary

Shot Put

A heavy metal ball that is pushed (not thrown) for distance in athletics

Put

The pushing action used to propel a shot put, different from throwing

Extension

Straightening the arm and body to create power and direction

Weight Transfer

Moving body weight from back leg to front leg to generate power

Rotation

Turning the hips and shoulders to add power to the put

Stance

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

Consistent finger grip without palm contact

Smooth weight transfer from back foot to front foot

Visible rotation of hips before release

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