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Lesson 1 - Running Competitions and Technique

Athletic Fundamentals

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Year 4

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we use different running techniques and tactics to perform our best in athletic competitions?

Learning Objectives

To apply correct sprinting and distance running technique in competitive situations
To understand and demonstrate effective pacing strategies in distance events
To work collaboratively in relay teams with smooth baton changeovers

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate proper running technique for both sprint and distance events
Students will show understanding of pacing and tactical awareness in races
Students will successfully execute relay changeovers and work as part of a team

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

20-30

Mark lane boundaries, start/finish lines, and relay exchange points

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines

Relay Baton

8-12

One per team for relay races, brightly coloured for visibility

Alternative: Bean bags, foam tubes, wooden sticks

Stopwatch

2-4

For timing races and monitoring pace work

Alternative: Phone timer apps, large clock with second hand

Team bibs

32 (4 colours × 8)

Different colour per team for easy identification

Alternative: Coloured bands, house team shirts

Key Vocabulary

Pacing

Running at a steady, sustainable speed that can be maintained over the full distance

Sprint Finish

Increasing speed in the final section of a race to gain advantage

Baton Changeover

The safe transfer of the relay baton from one runner to the next

False Start

Moving before the official start signal, resulting in disqualification

Lane Discipline

Staying within your designated lane throughout the race

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running action with arms and legs coordinated
Understanding of start positions and finishing lines
Experience of working in small groups

Current Skills

Sprinting technique with focus on head, arms and leg drive
Pacing strategies for distance running
Relay baton changeover technique
Team organisation and tactical awareness

Next Steps

Advanced starting techniques including reaction time
Hurdling and jumping events
More complex relay formations and zone exchanges

Milestone Indicators

Consistent technique maintained under competitive pressure

Tactical decisions made independently

Leadership shown in team organisation

Key Teaching Points

Sprint technique requires head up, arms pumping at 90 degrees, and driving leg action
Distance running needs controlled pacing with energy saved for sprint finish
Relay changeovers need palm-up ready position and clear communication
Competition is about applying technique under pressure, not just winning
Team organisation and tactics can be as important as individual speed
Athletic performance improves through practice and tactical awareness
Good sportsmanship and effort matter more than final race positions

Common Misconceptions

Faster is always better - correct by showing how pacing strategy beats unsustainable speed
Sprint technique works for all distances - demonstrate why distance running needs different approach
Relay is about individual speed - emphasise teamwork and smooth changeovers
Looking down helps you run faster - show how head position affects balance and speed
Competition means you must win - focus on personal improvement and good technique application

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short, varied activities with regular movement breaks, clear role assignments in team activities, positive reinforcement for focus and effort

dyspraxia

Simplified technique focus on one element at a time, additional practice time for coordination skills, peer support partnerships

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson structure, designated quiet zones for breaks, consistent routines for each activity

visual impairment

Use bright coloured markers and verbal descriptions of track layout, buddy system for navigation, clear audio cues for race starts

hearing impairment

Visual start signals using flags or lights, demonstration-based teaching, written instructions and diagrams for complex concepts

physical disability

Modified distances and techniques as appropriate, wheelchair racing options, alternative roles such as timekeeper or judge

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Timing races and calculating improvements, measuring distances for track setup, comparing race times and statistics

Science

Understanding how muscles work during exercise, exploring heart rate changes during different intensity activities, discussing energy systems in sprint vs distance running

Geography

Understanding distances and measurements, exploring athletics around the world, learning about Olympic host countries and athletic traditions

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation in relay events, showing respect for competitors, developing resilience when facing challenges or setbacks

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around track perimeter to observe all students, position at finish line during races for safety

Observation Focus

Watch for technique maintenance under pressure, team cooperation, and signs of fatigue

Intervention Points

Step in if unsafe running occurs, provide technique reminders during competition, manage competitive intensity

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show technique clearly, demonstrate both correct and incorrect methods for comparison, model positive competitive attitude throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Eyes forward, arms pumping!'
•'Steady pace, save energy!'
•'Hand ready, palm up!'
•'Good technique beats speed!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 50m x 30m with additional circular track space, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Flat, dry surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas that could cause falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check relay batons have no sharp edges or cracks
•Ensure cones are stable and visible
•Confirm lane markers are secure and safe

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during relay changeovers
•Falls due to high-intensity running
•Overexertion in competitive environment
•Baton strikes during handovers

Risk Mitigation

•Clear lane boundaries and adequate spacing
•Progressive skill building before competitive application
•Emphasis on controlled technique over pure speed
•Regular breaks and hydration reminders

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all lanes during sprint races
•Close monitoring of relay changeover zones
•Watch for signs of overexertion during distance events

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if needed