Lesson 4 - Athletics Competitions: Part 1
Athletic Fundamentals
•Year 4
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Mark 100m circular track and field event zones
Alternative: Markers, bean bags for track marking
One baton per team for relay races
Alternative: Short wooden sticks, foam tubes
Set at appropriate height around track for 100m hurdles
Alternative: Low cones, agility ladders
Mark take-off line clearly with measuring tape nearby
Alternative: Gymnastics mats, sand pit if available
Safe throwing implements for javelin competition
Alternative: Pool noodles, foam rockets
Age-appropriate weights in designated throwing area
Alternative: Bean bags, soft balls
Lightweight implements for safe throwing practice
Alternative: Foam discs, frisbees
One per team for timing events accurately
Alternative: Smartphone timers, class stopwatch
For measuring jumping and throwing distances
Alternative: Metre rulers, marked ground
Track team scores and individual performances
Alternative: Whiteboards, clipboards
Key Vocabulary
Running as fast as possible over a short distance
Running at a steady pace over longer distances to maintain energy
Team race where each member runs one section and passes a baton
Athletics events involving jumping or throwing for distance or accuracy
The correct way to perform a skill to achieve best results safely
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
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