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Lesson 4 - Sling Technique and Discus Throwing

Biomechanics in Athletics

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Year 4

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Athletics

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Big Question

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

Soft Discs

1 per student (30)

Distributed in equipment area, away from throwing zones

Alternative: Plastic plates, frisbees, or foam discuses

Hoops (various sizes)

10-15

Available for throwing practice and target activities

Alternative: Rope circles or chalk circles

Balls

For initial practice and warm-up activities

Alternative: Soft balls or tennis balls

Measuring Tapes

One per group for distance measurement

Alternative: Metre rulers or measuring wheels

Dish Cones

For marking throwing lines and landing points

Alternative: Bean bags or small objects as markers

Score Sheets

1 per student

For recording distances and observations

Alternative: Clipboards with paper

Key Vocabulary

Sling throw

A throwing technique where the arm moves in a straight line like a sling, with the object released at the highest point

Wind-up technique

The preparation phase where the thrower builds momentum by rotating the throwing arm backwards

Weight transfer

Moving body weight from the back foot to the front foot during the throw to generate power

Release point

The moment when the object leaves the hand at the highest point of the throw

Follow-through

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

Consistent sideways stance with correct foot positioning

Smooth weight transfer from back to front foot

Straight arm action with thumb leading release

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