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Lesson 1 - Throwing for Accuracy 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 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

Balls

1 per student (30)

Distribute around area perimeter for easy collection

Alternative: Tennis balls, soft foam balls

Hoops

9 (3 per group)

Set vertically equal distances apart for accuracy practice

Alternative: Cones in triangular formation, chalk circles

Sun Markers

15-20

Place at 10m intervals for distance throwing

Alternative: Spot markers, rope lines

Measuring Tapes

One per group for measuring throws

Alternative: Trundle wheel, pre-measured rope

Key Vocabulary

Accuracy

The ability to hit a specific target consistently

Distance

How far we can throw an object

Release Point

The exact moment when we let go of the object

Stance

The position of our body when we throw

Underarm Throw

Throwing with arm moving upward from below shoulder level

Overarm Throw

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

Consistent release timing in underarm throws

Sideways stance naturally adopted for distance throws

Ability to self-correct throwing technique

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