🏃

Lesson 2 - Relay Changeover Technique

Speed, Power & Fair Play

•

Year 3

•

Athletics

•

45 min

Big Question

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

Cones

Use to mark relay distances, changeover zones, and activity boundaries

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines

Relay Baton

8 (2 per group of 4)

Check batons are smooth with no splinters or sharp edges

Alternative: Cardboard tubes, pool noodles cut to 30cm length, wooden dowels

Measuring Tapes

For accurate distance marking of 10m, 20m, and 30m intervals

Alternative: Pre-marked distances with cones

Key Vocabulary

Changeover

The moment when the baton is passed from one runner to another in a relay race

Relay baton

A lightweight tube passed between teammates in relay races

Receiving side

The side of your teammate that you should run towards when passing the baton

Sprint technique

Running at maximum speed with proper form: arms pumping, high knees, on balls of feet

Communication

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

Smooth baton exchanges without dropping

Clear communication between teammates

Consistent sprint technique throughout relay

Understanding of teamwork in athletics

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