Lesson 4 - Javelin Throwing & Accuracy
Technical Foundations
•Year 4
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
Sign up free to access 3 complete units per month, unlimited activity library, and your personal locker.
What's included
- Complete activity instructions & timing
- Teaching tips & differentiation strategies
- Assessment guidance & success criteria
- Downloadable lessons & units
How can we use the 'pull throw' technique to achieve maximum distance and accuracy in javelin throwing?
Learning Objectives
- To develop overarm throwing technique using the 'pull throw' method
- To throw accurately at targets using correct body positioning
- To understand safety protocols in throwing activities
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate the pull throw technique with sideways body position
- Students will throw accurately at targets from varying distances
- Students will explain safety considerations in throwing activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Store safely in equipment bag until needed
Alternative: Pool noodles, cardboard tubes, foam rockets
Mark throwing areas and boundaries clearly
Alternative: Spots, markers, bean bags
Place at varying distances for runway game
Alternative: Hoops, large targets, painted circles
For groups with limited javelin equipment
Alternative: Bean bags, soft balls
Position 15m from throwing lines
Alternative: Cones with balls balanced on top
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm is pulled back past the head, elbow first, then driven forward
Body positioned perpendicular to the throwing direction with opposite foot forward
The angle at which the javelin is released to achieve optimal distance
The continuation of arm movement after release in the direction of throw
Moving body weight from back leg to front leg during the throw
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic overarm throwing action
- Understanding of spatial awareness
- Experience with target games
Current Skills
- Pull throw technique development
- Sideways body positioning
- Accurate throwing at targets
Next Steps
- Running approach for javelin
- Advanced throwing techniques
- Competitive throwing events
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Sideways stance is fundamental - opposite foot forward to throwing arm
- Pull throw action starts with elbow leading past the head
- Weight transfer from back leg to front leg drives power
- Safety signals must be followed absolutely - whistle system is non-negotiable
- Release angle affects distance - encourage experimentation within safe parameters
- Technique development takes priority over distance achievement
- Group cooperation and safety awareness are as important as individual skill
Common Misconceptions
- Standing square-on gives more power - actually reduces effectiveness and accuracy
- Throwing harder always means throwing further - technique and release angle are more important
- The javelin should be thrown like a dart - different technique required for longer implement
- Safety rules slow down the lesson - they enable safe, effective learning for all
- Only natural athletes can be good at javelin - technique can be learned and improved by everyone
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear movement boundaries, regular positive feedback and refocusing
dyspraxia
- Simplified technique breakdown, larger equipment, additional practice time, movement pattern cards
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available for breaks
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured javelins and targets, provide verbal descriptions of technique, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Clear visual signals for throwing/collection, written technique cards, demonstration emphasis over verbal instruction
physical disability
- Seated throwing variations, lighter equipment options, modified distances and target sizes
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring throwing distances, calculating scores and averages, understanding angles of release and trajectory
Science
Forces in throwing - push and pull, gravity effects on flight path, biomechanics of human movement
Geography
Directions and compass points for throwing alignment, mapping throwing areas and target positions
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with challenge and disappointment, celebrating others' success
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at side of throwing area for maximum visibility of all groups, move between groups during practice phases
Observation Focus
Watch for consistent sideways stance, pull throw action, safety protocol adherence, and group cooperation
Intervention Points
Step in if students not following safety signals, technique breaking down significantly, or group dynamics becoming problematic
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Exaggerate sideways stance for visibility, show slow-motion pull action emphasising elbow-first movement, use enthusiastic tone to maintain engagement
Verbal Cues
- •'Sideways stance first!'
- •'Elbow leads the way!'
- •'Weight back to front!'
- •'Follow through low!'
- •'Wait for the whistle!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 40m x 25m outdoor area with clear throwing zones, soft landing surface preferred
Surface Check
Level ground free from holes, adequate grip for running approach, no obstacles in throwing direction
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Soft foam javelins inspected for damage before use
- •Cones checked for stability and no sharp edges
- •Mats positioned to prevent tripping hazards
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Javelin strikes to students or spectators
- •Collisions during collection phase
- •Slips and falls during throwing action
- •Overexertion during repeated throwing
Risk Mitigation
- •Whistle signal system for synchronized throwing and collection
- •All throwing in same direction with clear safety boundaries
- •Adequate spacing between groups (minimum 5m apart)
- •Progressive skill building from technique to application
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all throwing groups simultaneously
- •Clear sight lines to throwing areas and collection zones
- •Ready to stop activity immediately if safety compromised
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately on safety concern, assess any injuries, provide appropriate first aid, ensure clear communication with school office if required