Lesson 1 - Throwing for Accuracy 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 master the art of throwing for both precision and power in athletics?
Learning Objectives
- To explore the differences between throwing for accuracy and throwing for distance
- To develop underarm and overarm throwing techniques with proper stance and release timing
- To understand the application of different throwing techniques in various sports
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate accurate underarm throwing technique
- Students will execute overarm throws for distance with improved technique
- Students will explain when and why different throwing techniques are used
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around area perimeter for easy collection
Alternative: Tennis balls, soft foam balls
Set vertically equal distances apart for accuracy practice
Alternative: Cones in triangular formation, chalk circles
Place at 10m intervals for distance throwing
Alternative: Spot markers, rope lines
One per group for measuring throws
Alternative: Trundle wheel, pre-measured rope
Key Vocabulary
The ability to hit a specific target consistently
How far we can throw an object
The exact moment when we let go of the object
The position of our body when we throw
Throwing with arm moving upward from below shoulder level
Throwing with arm moving forward from above shoulder level
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching skills from Year 2
- Understanding of following safety instructions
- Experience with taking turns and working in pairs
Current Skills
- Underarm throwing for accuracy with consistent technique
- Overarm throwing for distance with proper stance
- Understanding of release timing and its impact
Next Steps
- Introduction to athletic throwing events (javelin, shot put)
- More complex target games requiring strategic throwing
- Advanced throwing techniques and biomechanics
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Accuracy throwing requires controlled underarm motion with consistent release timing
- Distance throwing needs sideways stance with high elbow position for maximum power
- Release timing is crucial - too early goes high, too late hits ground quickly
- Step forward with opposite foot for better balance and power transfer
- Competition strategy involves choosing appropriate targets based on ability
- Both accuracy and distance throwing have important applications in athletics and sport
- Safety through controlled commands prevents collisions and maintains order
Common Misconceptions
- Throwing harder always gives better results - technique is more important than force
- Only distance throwing matters in athletics - accuracy is equally important in many sports
- Release timing doesn't matter much - it's actually crucial for both accuracy and distance
- Overarm is always better than underarm - each has specific applications
- You can't improve throwing without being naturally strong - technique can be learned by everyone
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, frequent positive feedback, movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Larger bean bags, simplified technique focus, extra practice time, peer buddies
autism spectrum
- Clear routine cards, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones for breaks
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured bean bags, verbal descriptions of targets, tactile markers for throwing line
hearing impairment
- Visual signal system for throw/collect commands, clear demonstrations, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Seated throwing versions, modified targets at appropriate heights, adaptive equipment
Cross-Curricular Links
Science
Forces and motion, trajectory paths, energy transfer in throwing
Geography
Distance measurement, directional awareness, spatial positioning
PSHE
Teamwork, perseverance, celebrating others' success, honest scoring
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand where you can see all groups simultaneously, move between groups during practice phases
Observation Focus
Watch for correct stance, release timing, and safety adherence
Intervention Points
Step in when technique deteriorates or safety commands not followed
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate with exaggerated, clear movements so all students can see key technique points
Verbal Cues
- •'Sideways stance for power!'
- •'Release when pointing at target!'
- •'Wait for the command!'
- •'Technique before power!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m clear grass area with additional 10m safety margin
Surface Check
Level grass surface free from holes, debris, or hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check bean bags for tears or loose filling
- •Ensure hoops are stable and positioned securely
- •Verify markers are visible and non-slip
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Bean bags hitting other students
- •Collisions during collection phases
- •Strain from incorrect throwing technique
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear throwing lanes with adequate spacing
- •Controlled 'throw' and 'collect' command system
- •Proper warm-up and technique instruction
- •Designated collection roles to prevent crossover
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all throwing areas simultaneously
- •Monitor technique to prevent injury from poor form
- •Ensure command system is followed strictly
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess, provide appropriate first aid, and clear area as needed