Lesson 4 - Sling Technique and Discus Throwing
Biomechanics in Athletics
•Year 4
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can using a sling action and proper body mechanics help us throw objects further and more accurately?
Learning Objectives
- To learn and apply the sling technique for discus throwing
- To develop wind-up technique for generating power in throws
- To accurately measure and record throwing distances
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate the sling throwing technique with correct body positioning
- Students will show improved throwing distance through proper wind-up technique
- Students will accurately measure and record their throws using appropriate methods
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed in equipment area, away from throwing zones
Alternative: Plastic plates, frisbees, or foam discuses
Available for throwing practice and target activities
Alternative: Rope circles or chalk circles
For initial practice and warm-up activities
Alternative: Soft balls or tennis balls
One per group for distance measurement
Alternative: Metre rulers or measuring wheels
For marking throwing lines and landing points
Alternative: Bean bags or small objects as markers
For recording distances and observations
Alternative: Clipboards with paper
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm moves in a straight line like a sling, with the object released at the highest point
The preparation phase where the thrower builds momentum by rotating the throwing arm backwards
Moving body weight from the back foot to the front foot during the throw to generate power
The moment when the object leaves the hand at the highest point of the throw
The continuation of the throwing motion after releasing the object
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing techniques from previous athletics lessons
- Understanding of safe throwing practices
- Experience with measuring distances using simple tools
Current Skills
- Sling throwing technique development
- Wind-up action for power generation
- Accurate measurement of throwing distances
- Understanding of competition throwing rules
Next Steps
- Advanced discus techniques with rotation
- Shot put and javelin throwing methods
- Competitive athletics rules and scoring
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Maintain sideways stance throughout the throwing motion for optimal power generation
- Keep throwing arm completely straight like a rope or sling during the action
- Transfer weight from back foot to front foot as the throw is executed
- Release the object at the highest point of the arm swing for maximum distance
- Follow through across the body after release to complete the throwing motion
- Measure accurately from throwing line to first contact point, not final position
- Integrate wind-up technique smoothly with the basic sling action for advanced throws
Common Misconceptions
- Students think facing forward gives more power - emphasise sideways stance advantages
- Believing bent arm throws are stronger - demonstrate the power of straight arm sling action
- Thinking harder throwing always means further distance - focus on technique over force
- Measuring to where object stops rolling rather than first contact point
- Assuming wind-up replaces sling technique rather than enhancing it
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries for movement, offer additional movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Use larger, easier-to-grip equipment, allow extra practice time for coordination, simplify technique progressions
autism spectrum
- Provide clear routine structure, offer quiet practice space if needed, use visual sequence cards for technique steps
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, establish clear audio signals for activities
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, establish hand signals for key commands, provide written instruction cards
physical disability
- Offer seated throwing variations, adapt grip and stance as needed, modify distances and equipment weight
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances accurately, recording and comparing numerical data, calculating team totals and averages
Science
Understanding forces and motion, exploring trajectory and release angles, investigating how lever actions generate power
Geography
Understanding direction and spatial awareness, using measuring skills for distance and accuracy
History
Learning about ancient warfare and the historical use of slings, connecting to Olympic Games traditions
PSHE
Teamwork during partner activities, resilience when learning new skills, fair play and rule following
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand where you can see all throwing lanes, typically at the side of the activity area for best visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for correct technique development, safe throwing practices, and student engagement levels
Intervention Points
Step in when students struggle with basic stance, when safety protocols aren't followed, or when measurement accuracy needs support
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements to show technique clearly, demonstrate both correct and incorrect examples for comparison, involve students in demonstrating when appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Sideways stance, just like a warrior!'
- •'Straight arm like a rope!'
- •'Weight back, then forward with power!'
- •'Release at the top, thumb leads the way!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m clear area with defined throwing lanes and safe retrieval zones
Surface Check
Level, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all throwing implements are in good condition with no sharp edges
- •Ensure bean bags are properly filled and secure
- •Verify measuring tapes retract safely and aren't damaged
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during throwing activities
- •Injuries from thrown objects
- •Slips and falls during dynamic movements
- •Overextension during throwing motions
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear throwing directions established and maintained
- •Adequate spacing between students during all activities
- •Controlled throwing zones with safe retrieval procedures
- •Progressive skill building to prevent overexertion
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all throwing lanes
- •Monitor adherence to safety procedures during object retrieval
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion in students
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid if needed, ensure clear access for emergency services