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Lesson 3 - Javelin Throwing Accuracy

Technique & Excellence

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Year 3

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we throw with power and accuracy like Olympic athletes?

Learning Objectives

To develop the overarm throwing technique using the 'pull throw' method
To improve accuracy when throwing at targets from different distances
To understand the importance of body positioning and follow-through in throwing

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved overarm throwing technique with correct body positioning
Students will show increased accuracy when throwing at targets
Students will understand safety procedures for throwing activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Foam Javelins

1 per 4-5 students (minimum 6)

Store safely away from throwing area until needed

Alternative: Pool noodles, foam javelins, or tennis balls in socks

Safety Mats

Place at different distances and angles for target practice

Alternative: Hoops, cones, or marked areas with chalk

Cones

30 (6 per team of 5)

Different colours for each team if possible

Alternative: Plastic bottles, bean bags, or skittles

Balls

15 (3 per team)

Medium-sized balls that can be thrown accurately

Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls, or soft play balls

Tees

5 (1 per team)

Should hold ball securely but allow easy knock-off

Alternative: Traffic cones, bottles, or improvised stands

Measuring Tapes

For measuring throwing distances and setting up areas

Alternative: Pre-marked lines on ground, or counting paces

Whistles

Clear audio signals for safety coordination

Alternative: Hand signals, tambourine, or voice commands

Key Vocabulary

Pull Throw

A throwing technique where the elbow leads the action, followed by the hand

Sideways Stance

Body positioned with opposite foot forward from throwing arm

Follow Through

Continuing the throwing motion after release for maximum power

Release Point

The moment when the javelin leaves the hand, past head height

Trajectory

The path the javelin takes through the air

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic underarm throwing technique
Understanding of personal space
Following simple instructions and signals

Current Skills

Overarm throwing with correct body position
Pull technique with elbow-first action
Accuracy throwing at various targets

Next Steps

Javelin throwing with run-up approach
Advanced throwing for distance competitions
Teaching others throwing techniques

Milestone Indicators

Consistent sideways stance when throwing

Smooth elbow-first pull action

Accurate targeting from 15+ metres

Key Teaching Points

Sideways stance with opposite foot forward creates power and accuracy
Elbow leads the throwing action - 'pull through' technique
Safety signals must be followed strictly for javelin activities
Accuracy develops through consistent technique, not just power
Weight transfer from back to front foot increases throwing distance
Follow-through in direction of target improves accuracy
Practice makes permanent - focus on correct technique every throw

Common Misconceptions

Thinking more power always means better throws - correct technique with control is more effective
Believing the hand leads the throw - the elbow must lead for proper pull technique
Assuming all throws should be as hard as possible - accuracy requires controlled force
Thinking safety rules don't apply to soft equipment - all throwing activities need safety protocols
Believing natural throwing is best - overarm technique requires specific learning and practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, regular movement breaks, clear boundaries, immediate feedback, engaging competitive elements

dyspraxia

Simplified technique steps, extra practice time, larger targets, bilateral coordination activities, physical guidance when needed

autism spectrum

Clear routine and signals, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available, predictable structure, advance warning of changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured javelins, verbal descriptions of target positions, buddy system for guidance, textured targets

hearing impairment

Visual signals for throwing and collection, written instruction cards, demonstration emphasis, vibrating signal devices

physical disability

Seated throwing positions, lighter equipment, reduced distances, modified grip options, wheelchair accessible areas

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Forces and motion, gravity effects on projectiles, muscle and bone systems during exercise

Geography

Directions and orienteering, mapping throwing areas, understanding distances and scales

Mathematics

Measuring throwing distances, calculating scores, angles of trajectory, data collection and analysis

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing competition emotions, supporting others' learning, resilience when practicing skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position with clear view of all groups, move between groups during practice

Observation Focus

Technique development, safety compliance, accuracy improvement, group cooperation

Intervention Points

Poor technique habits forming, safety rules being ignored, students becoming frustrated, unequal participation

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion demonstrations for technique, exaggerate key points, provide positive examples of good throws

Verbal Cues

•'Elbow first, hand follows!'
•'Sideways stance, pull through!'
•'Wait for the signal!'
•'Aim, then throw with control!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 20m outdoor area with clear run-off space

Surface Check

Level ground, clear of obstacles, dry surface preferred

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check soft javelins for damage before use
•Ensure mats are flat and secure
•Verify cones have no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Javelin strikes to students
•Collisions during collection
•Overarm throwing injuries
•Slips and falls

Risk Mitigation

•Strict signal system for throwing and collection
•All throwing in same direction only
•Clear separation between throwers and collection areas
•Proper warm-up to prevent muscle strain
•Groups maintain safe distances

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all groups simultaneously
•Move regularly to provide close observation
•Maintain clear sightlines to throwing areas
•Ready access to first aid if needed

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, seek additional help if required