Lesson 2 - Relay Changeover Technique
Speed, Power & Fair Play
•Year 3
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we work together as a team to pass the baton smoothly and efficiently in relay races?
Learning Objectives
- To develop smooth changeover technique in relay events
- To understand the importance of communication during baton changes
- To apply sprinting technique effectively in relay situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate proper baton grip and changeover technique
- Students will communicate effectively with teammates during baton exchanges
- Students will apply correct sprinting form whilst carrying and receiving a baton
Equipment & Resources Required
Use to mark relay distances, changeover zones, and activity boundaries
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines
Check batons are smooth with no splinters or sharp edges
Alternative: Cardboard tubes, pool noodles cut to 30cm length, wooden dowels
For accurate distance marking of 10m, 20m, and 30m intervals
Alternative: Pre-marked distances with cones
Key Vocabulary
The moment when the baton is passed from one runner to another in a relay race
A lightweight tube passed between teammates in relay races
The side of your teammate that you should run towards when passing the baton
Running at maximum speed with proper form: arms pumping, high knees, on balls of feet
Talking with your teammates to coordinate smooth baton exchanges
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running and jogging techniques
- Understanding of personal space and movement
- Basic coordination skills
- Simple catching and releasing objects
Current Skills
- Relay baton handling and grip technique
- Changeover positioning and timing
- Communication during baton exchange
- Sprint technique whilst carrying equipment
Next Steps
- Advanced relay racing strategies
- Competitive relay events
- Different types of relay races
- Official athletics relay rules
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Hold the relay baton at the bottom third to allow space for teammates to grip
- Communication is essential for smooth changeovers - encourage talking between teammates
- Sprint technique: bent elbows, hands from pocket to mouth, high knees, on balls of feet
- Run to the receiving side of your teammate when passing the baton
- Spread fingers wide to create a large target when receiving the baton
- Safety first: controlled baton handling, never throw the baton
- Teamwork and sportsmanship are as important as individual technique
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking you should hold the baton in the middle - correct by showing bottom grip technique
- Believing you can throw the baton to teammates - emphasise hand-to-hand passing only
- Assuming sprint technique is just about running fast - teach proper form elements
- Thinking relay racing is only about individual speed - highlight teamwork importance
- Believing communication isn't necessary if you're fast - demonstrate value of talking to teammates
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Keep activities short with frequent changes Provide clear, simple instructions one at a time Use positive reinforcement frequently Allow for additional movement and energy release
dyspraxia
- Break down baton handling into smaller steps Allow extra practice time for coordination skills Use larger, easier-to-grip equipment initially Provide additional demonstrations and support
autism spectrum
- Provide clear routine and predictable structure Use visual schedule showing lesson progression Allow movement breaks if needed Prepare for potential sensory sensitivities to equipment
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured batons for better visibility Provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations Use buddy system for guidance during activities Clear audio signals for start and stop commands
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations and clear hand signals Provide written instruction cards with diagrams Ensure student can see teacher's face for lip reading Use vibrant visual cues instead of whistle commands
physical disability
- Adapt distances to suit mobility levels Consider seated relay variations Use lightweight alternative equipment if needed Focus on upper body baton handling if appropriate
Cross-Curricular Links
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand where you can see all groups, moving between them during activities to provide feedback
Observation Focus
Baton grip technique - bottom third holding; Communication between teammates during exchanges; Sprint technique application during relay activities; Safety awareness and controlled movement
Intervention Points
["Step in if students struggling with baton grip or dropping equipment", "Correct sprint technique if students are running inefficiently or unsafely", "Support groups where communication is breaking down", "Manage energy levels if students becoming over-excited"]
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate techniques slowly first, then at normal speed. Use student volunteers to show partner work. Emphasise safety in all demonstrations.
Verbal Cues
- •'Hold the bottom of the baton!'
- •'Run to your teammate's right side!'
- •'Fingers spread wide for target!'
- •'Talk to your team!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear space for relay activities and sprint practice
Surface Check
Flat, dry surface free from holes, debris, or obstacles that could cause trips
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check relay batons for smooth surfaces with no splinters or cracks
- •Ensure cones are stable and positioned safely away from activity areas
- •Verify adequate grip on batons to prevent slipping
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during sprint activities
- •Dropping batons causing trips or falls
- •Students running outside designated areas
- •Over-exertion during repeated sprint activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established with cones for all activities
- •Adequate spacing between groups during relay practice
- •Progressive skill building from walking to sprinting
- •Clear start and stop signals for all activities
- •Emphasis on controlled baton handling rather than throwing
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all groups during simultaneous activities
- •Monitor energy levels and provide rest breaks as needed
- •Watch for proper baton handling technique
- •Ensure students follow one-at-a-time running protocols
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safe and calm