Lesson 5 - Standing Long Jump 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 jump as far as possible in one powerful movement?
Learning Objectives
- To execute a standing long jump using correct arm and leg technique
- To understand how different body positions affect jumping distance
- To evaluate and improve jumping performance through peer assessment
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate a standing long jump with coordinated arm swing and leg drive
- Students will explain how arm and leg technique affects jumping distance
- Students will provide constructive feedback to improve their partner's jumping technique
Equipment & Resources Required
Used to mark jumping distances and create measurement points
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk
For accurate measurement of jumping distances
Alternative: Metre rulers, marked ground
For students to track their jumping distances
Alternative: Mini whiteboards, mental recording
Key Vocabulary
A jump for distance starting and landing on both feet without a run-up
The moment when both feet leave the ground to begin the jump
The coordinated movement of arms backwards then forwards to generate momentum
Touching down on both feet at the end of the jump while maintaining balance
Powerful upward thrust of the legs to generate jumping force
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic jumping movements from two feet
- Understanding of balance and coordination
- Experience with measuring and comparing distances
Current Skills
- Coordinated arm swing during jumping
- Explosive leg drive for maximum distance
- Controlled landing technique
- Peer assessment and feedback skills
Next Steps
- Running long jump technique
- Triple jump progression
- High jump fundamentals
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Arms must swing from behind the body to above the head for maximum momentum
- Knees bend deeply then drive upward and forward explosively for power generation
- Landing must be on both feet with knees bent to absorb impact safely
- Technique is more important than raw power for achieving maximum distance
- Coordination of arms and legs working together creates the most effective jump
- Practice and repetition develop consistency in jumping performance
- Understanding biomechanics helps students coach themselves and others effectively
Common Misconceptions
- That jumping higher automatically means jumping further - correct by emphasising forward direction
- That arm swing is optional - demonstrate clear distance difference with and without arms
- That strength alone determines jumping distance - show how technique multiplies natural ability
- That landing style doesn't matter - emphasise safety and measurement accuracy
- That some people 'can't jump' - prove everyone can improve with proper technique
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short burst activities, clear physical boundaries, immediate feedback, regular movement breaks and concrete goals
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for coordination, simplified technique instructions, larger target areas, celebration of effort over outcome
autism spectrum
- Clear structured routine, visual sequence cards showing jumping phases, quiet practice area available, consistent partner arrangements
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured markers, verbal descriptions of distances, buddy system for guidance and clear audio cues for technique
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for technique cues, visual markers for distances
physical disability
- Seated jumping from chair if needed, modified distances, use of upper body movements, adapted measuring techniques
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances in metres and centimetres, comparing lengths, data collection and recording personal bests
Science
Forces and motion - understanding how muscles create force, gravity affecting movement, momentum and energy transfer
Geography
Distances and scale - relating jumping distances to familiar landmarks, understanding Olympic venues and global competitions
PSHE
Setting personal goals, celebrating achievement, supporting others, resilience when facing challenges
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position to see all students during activities, moving between groups to provide individual feedback
Observation Focus
Watch for coordination of arms and legs, landing safety, and understanding of technique principles
Intervention Points
Step in when students show poor landing technique, lack of coordination, or safety concerns
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated slow-motion demonstrations to highlight key technique points, involve students in demonstrations where appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Arms behind, then drive up!'
- •'Bend those knees for power!'
- •'Land like a cat - soft and balanced!'
- •'Feel the difference technique makes!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 15m clear space with 3m buffer zones around jumping areas
Surface Check
Dry, level surface free from holes, stones, or wet patches that could cause slipping
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Ensure measuring tapes retract safely
- •Verify all markers are visible and stable
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls during landing
- •Collisions between students
- •Overexertion leading to muscle strain
- •Tripping over equipment
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and safe zones established
- •Adequate spacing between jumping stations
- •Progressive warm-up to prepare muscles
- •Emphasis on controlled landings
- •Equipment positioned safely away from landing areas
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all jumping stations
- •Monitor landing technique closely
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration
- •Ensure equipment is used correctly
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid, and seek additional support if needed