Lesson 1 - Running Competitions and Technique
Athletic Fundamentals
•Year 4
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Mark lane boundaries, start/finish lines, and relay exchange points
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines
One per team for relay races, brightly coloured for visibility
Alternative: Bean bags, foam tubes, wooden sticks
For timing races and monitoring pace work
Alternative: Phone timer apps, large clock with second hand
Different colour per team for easy identification
Alternative: Coloured bands, house team shirts
Key Vocabulary
Running at a steady, sustainable speed that can be maintained over the full distance
Increasing speed in the final section of a race to gain advantage
The safe transfer of the relay baton from one runner to the next
Moving before the official start signal, resulting in disqualification
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
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