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Lesson 4 - Athletics Competitions: Part 1

Athletic Fundamentals

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Year 4

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we use correct techniques to perform our best in athletic competitions whilst working as a team?

Learning Objectives

To apply running, jumping and throwing techniques in competitive situations
To work collaboratively in teams and demonstrate good sportsmanship
To evaluate and encourage teammates' performances

Key Outcomes

Students will compete in athletics events using correct techniques
Students will demonstrate teamwork and fair play throughout competitions
Students will provide constructive feedback to support team performance

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

20-30

Mark 100m circular track and field event zones

Alternative: Markers, bean bags for track marking

Relay Baton

4 (one per team)

One baton per team for relay races

Alternative: Short wooden sticks, foam tubes

Hurdles

6-8

Set at appropriate height around track for 100m hurdles

Alternative: Low cones, agility ladders

Mats

2-4 areas

Mark take-off line clearly with measuring tape nearby

Alternative: Gymnastics mats, sand pit if available

Foam Javelins

8-12

Safe throwing implements for javelin competition

Alternative: Pool noodles, foam rockets

Shot Put

4-6

Age-appropriate weights in designated throwing area

Alternative: Bean bags, soft balls

Discus

4-6

Lightweight implements for safe throwing practice

Alternative: Foam discs, frisbees

Stopwatch

One per team for timing events accurately

Alternative: Smartphone timers, class stopwatch

Measuring Tapes

2-4

For measuring jumping and throwing distances

Alternative: Metre rulers, marked ground

Score Sheets

4 (one per team)

Track team scores and individual performances

Alternative: Whiteboards, clipboards

Key Vocabulary

Sprint

Running as fast as possible over a short distance

Long distance

Running at a steady pace over longer distances to maintain energy

Relay

Team race where each member runs one section and passes a baton

Field events

Athletics events involving jumping or throwing for distance or accuracy

Technique

The correct way to perform a skill to achieve best results safely

Sportsmanship

Playing fairly, respecting opponents and accepting results gracefully

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running, jumping and throwing techniques
Understanding of athletic event rules
Experience working in teams during PE

Current Skills

Applying techniques under competitive pressure
Team organisation and strategy
Performance evaluation and encouragement

Next Steps

Advanced athletic techniques and tactics
Leadership in competitive situations
Self-directed training and improvement

Milestone Indicators

Maintains technique when competing

Actively supports all team members

Shows resilience when challenged

Key Teaching Points

Technique and safety must never be compromised for competitive advantage
Every student's effort and improvement should be celebrated regardless of final position
Fair play and sportsmanship are more important than winning
Teams should be balanced to ensure meaningful competition for all
Personal best achievements are as valuable as first place finishes
Support and encourage struggling students to maintain their engagement
Use competition to motivate technique improvement, not replace it

Common Misconceptions

Competition is only about winning - emphasise personal improvement and team effort
Only naturally athletic students can succeed - highlight technique development over natural ability
Faster/stronger always wins - demonstrate how good technique can overcome raw ability
Individual success matters most - reinforce team cooperation and collective achievement
Making mistakes means failure - frame errors as learning opportunities in competitive environment

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter event rotations, clear boundaries and rules, regular movement breaks, specific roles and responsibilities

dyspraxia

Simplified technique focus, larger/lighter equipment, extra practice time, buddy support system

autism spectrum

Clear routine and structure, visual schedule of events, quiet space available, predictable rotation system

visual impairment

Use bright coloured equipment, clear verbal instructions, tactile markers for boundaries, guide rope for running events

hearing impairment

Visual start signals, written rules and scores, demonstration-based instruction, hand signals for communication

physical disability

Modified equipment weights and sizes, seated throwing events, shorter distances, alternative competition formats

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Understanding forces in throwing and jumping, energy transfer, effects of exercise on body systems, biomechanics of movement

Geography

Understanding of distances, directions, spatial awareness in field events, weather effects on performance

PSHE

Teamwork skills, dealing with success and failure, resilience, leadership, managing competitive emotions and stress

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position with clear view of all event areas, mobile to provide support where needed

Observation Focus

Monitor technique application under competitive pressure, sportsmanship, and safety compliance

Intervention Points

Step in for safety concerns, poor sportsmanship, or technique correction when performance significantly affected

Demonstration Notes

Use student demonstrations where possible to maintain competitive atmosphere, provide technique reminders between events

Verbal Cues

•'Remember your technique!'
•'Support your teammates!'
•'Personal best effort!'
•'Safety first, performance second!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor space or sports hall minimum 40m x 30m for track and field events

Surface Check

Even, dry surface free from holes, debris, or wet patches

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all throwing implements are age-appropriate weight and condition
•Ensure landing mats are positioned correctly and secure
•Verify hurdles are appropriate height and stable
•Check batons have no sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during running events
•Injuries from throwing implements
•Falls during jumping events
•Overexertion in competitive environment

Risk Mitigation

•Clear safety zones around all throwing events
•Controlled starts for running events
•Proper landing areas for jumping events
•Adult supervision at each field event station
•Clear signals for starting and stopping activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all events simultaneously
•Dedicated supervisor for throwing events
•First aid accessible and adult trained in sports injuries

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required