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Lesson 4 - Javelin Throwing & Accuracy

Technical Foundations

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Year 4

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Athletics

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Big Question

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

Foam Javelins

1 per 4-5 students (minimum 6)

Store safely in equipment bag until needed

Alternative: Pool noodles, cardboard tubes, foam rockets

Safety Cones

20-30

Mark throwing areas and boundaries clearly

Alternative: Spots, markers, bean bags

Gym Mats

6-8

Place at varying distances for runway game

Alternative: Hoops, large targets, painted circles

Tennis Balls

30 (for alternative activities)

For groups with limited javelin equipment

Alternative: Bean bags, soft balls

Tees

3-4

Position 15m from throwing lines

Alternative: Cones with balls balanced on top

Key Vocabulary

Pull throw

A throwing technique where the arm is pulled back past the head, elbow first, then driven forward

Sideways stance

Body positioned perpendicular to the throwing direction with opposite foot forward

Release angle

The angle at which the javelin is released to achieve optimal distance

Follow through

The continuation of arm movement after release in the direction of throw

Weight transfer

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

Consistent sideways stance

Smooth pull-through action

Regular target accuracy

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