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Lesson 7 - Pull Throw for Distance

Speed, Power & Fair Play

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Year 3

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can I use my whole body to throw as far as possible?

Learning Objectives

To develop throwing for distance using the pull throw technique
To understand how body weight transfer improves throwing power
To apply accuracy skills when throwing for distance

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate the pull throw technique with correct body positioning
Students will show understanding of weight transfer from back to front leg
Students will throw with improved distance and accuracy

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls

15 (1 per pair plus spares)

Distributed to pairs at start of skill development

Alternative: Small balls, tennis balls, or foam balls

Cones

Used for marking throwing lines, goals, and distance markers

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines, or rope

Measuring Tapes

For setting up accurate distances and goals

Alternative: Metre rulers or pacing

Key Vocabulary

Pull throw

A throwing technique where the arm is pulled back past the head before throwing forward

Weight transfer

Moving your body weight from your back leg to your front leg during the throw

Follow through

Continuing the throwing movement after releasing the beanbag

Sideways stance

Standing with your side facing the direction you want to throw

Release point

The exact moment when you let go of the beanbag during the throw

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic overarm throwing with two hands
Understanding of aiming at targets
Basic balance and coordination skills

Current Skills

Pull throw technique with single hand
Weight transfer from back to front leg
Combining distance and accuracy in throwing

Next Steps

Javelin-style throwing with implements
Throwing in competitive athletics events
Advanced throwing techniques for different implements

Milestone Indicators

Consistent sideways stance without prompting

Visible weight transfer during throwing action

Improved throwing distance compared to starting position

Key Teaching Points

Maintain sideways stance throughout the throwing action
Start with weight on back leg, transfer smoothly to front leg
Pull arm back past head for maximum power generation
Release beanbag as hand moves past head level
Follow through towards target for accuracy and distance
Keep feet shoulder-width apart for stability and balance
Encourage effort and improvement over distance achieved

Common Misconceptions

Thinking strength is more important than technique - emphasise proper movement patterns
Believing they should face forward when throwing - reinforce sideways stance benefits
Rushing the throwing action - demonstrate the importance of smooth, controlled movement
Releasing too early or late - practice release timing at head level
Forgetting to transfer weight - use stepping actions to feel the movement
Aiming too high thinking it goes further - explain optimal trajectory angles

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular positive reinforcement and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Larger beanbags, simplified technique breakdown, extra practice time, reduced complexity

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured beanbags, audio cues for throwing direction, partner guidance for aiming

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for start/stop, written technique reminders

physical disability

Adapted sitting or supported throwing position, lighter implements, shorter distances

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring throwing distances, comparing measurements, recording data, understanding angles and trajectories

Science

Forces and motion, understanding how body mechanics create power, gravity's effect on projectiles

Geography

Direction and compass points, understanding of space and position, mapping throwing areas

PSHE

Perseverance and resilience, supporting others, managing competition and disappointment positively

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between throwing areas to observe technique, stand where all students visible during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for sideways stance, weight transfer, release point, follow-through, and safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in when technique significantly incorrect, safety issues arise, or students need encouragement

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion demonstrations, exaggerate key points, show from multiple angles, use student demonstrators

Verbal Cues

•'Side on, like a statue!'
•'Weight on your back leg first!'
•'Release past your head!'
•'Follow through to your target!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m area with clear throwing zones, no overhead obstacles

Surface Check

Level surface free from holes, stones, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Soft beanbags checked for intact seams
•Cones with no sharp edges or cracks
•Equipment distributed safely to avoid trips

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Beanbags hitting other students
•Students running into throwing areas
•Collisions during collection
•Overexertion or muscle strain

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing directions away from groups
•All throws on teacher command only
•Designated collection times with all throwing stopped
•Proper warm-up before throwing activities
•Teaching correct technique to prevent strain

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all throwing areas
•Monitor throwing technique for safety
•Ensure collection procedures followed
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safely occupied