Lesson 5 - Standing Long Jump Skills
Throwing & Jumping Skills
•Year 4
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use the science of body movement to jump as far as possible in one explosive leap?
Learning Objectives
- To execute a standing long jump with correct arm and leg technique
- To understand how body positioning affects jump distance and power
- To evaluate and improve jumping performance through peer assessment
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate a standing long jump with coordinated arm swing and leg drive
- Students will measure, compare and record jumping distances accurately
- Students will provide constructive feedback to improve their partner's jumping technique
Equipment & Resources Required
Used for marking jump distances and creating take-off lines
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk
For accurate distance measurement, one per pair/group
Alternative: Metre rulers, trundle wheels
For tracking distances and peer assessment
Alternative: Whiteboards, clipboards
Key Vocabulary
Jumping for maximum distance from a stationary position using both feet
The explosive push-off using bent legs to generate maximum power
Coordinated movement of arms backward then forward to add momentum
Controlled landing on both feet with knees bent to absorb impact
The line marking where jumps are measured from
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic jumping and landing on two feet
- Understanding of balance and coordination
- Experience with partner work and taking turns
Current Skills
- Coordinated arm swing in standing long jump
- Explosive leg drive from bent knee position
- Balanced landing and distance measurement
- Peer assessment and feedback skills
Next Steps
- Running long jump technique
- Triple jump introduction
- Advanced jumping events in athletics
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Four phases of standing long jump: setup, preparation, drive, landing
- Arms swing backward then forward to add momentum and distance
- Deep knee bend creates explosive power for maximum distance
- Land on both feet with knees bent to absorb impact safely
- Technique and consistency are more important than jumping with maximum effort
- Peer assessment develops observation skills and builds supportive relationships
- Connection to Olympic athletics inspires and motivates learning
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: Jumping as hard as possible creates the longest distance. Reality: Proper technique with coordination creates better results than just effort
- Misconception: Arms don't make much difference to jumping distance. Reality: Coordinated arm swing can significantly increase jump distance
- Misconception: Landing doesn't matter as long as you jump far. Reality: Proper landing technique prevents injury and maintains distance
- Misconception: Taller students will always jump further. Reality: Technique and coordination matter more than height
- Misconception: You should look down at your feet during takeoff. Reality: Looking forward helps maintain balance and direction
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent technique reminders, shorter activity bursts with variety, clear boundaries and structure
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for coordination, simplified technique focus on one element at a time, patient coaching
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of lesson phases, consistent routine and expectations, quiet reflection time available
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured markers for take-off line, verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance from teacher or partner
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of technique, written instruction cards, hand signals for communication
physical disability
- Seated throwing for distance alternative, modified jumping from chair or standing position, focus on arm coordination
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances in metres and centimetres, comparing numerical data, calculating improvements and averages
Science
Forces and motion - understanding how body position affects jumping distance, gravity and its effect on flight path
Geography
Scale and distance - relating jumping distances to map scales and real-world measurements
PSHE
Setting personal goals, resilience when facing challenges, supporting others through encouragement
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position at side of jumping area for clear view of takeoff and landing phases
Observation Focus
Watch for correct four-phase technique, safe landing, and positive peer interaction
Intervention Points
Step in if technique becomes unsafe, competitive pressure too high, or students need additional support
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate each phase slowly first, then at normal speed. Use side-on view for best visibility of technique
Verbal Cues
- •'Crouch like you're sitting in a chair!'
- •'Drive those arms up and forward!'
- •'Land like a ninja - soft and controlled!'
- •'Technique first, distance follows!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area with clear, flat jumping zone
Surface Check
Level, non-slip surface free from holes, stones or obstacles
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Cones have no sharp edges or damage
- •Measuring equipment stored safely when not in use
- •Take-off lines clearly marked to prevent slips
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Falls during takeoff or landing
- •Collisions between students during activities
- •Over-stretching or muscle strain
- •Competitive pressure causing reckless attempts
Risk Mitigation
- •Proper warm-up to prepare muscles for explosive movement
- •Clear safety boundaries and adequate spacing between students
- •Progressive skill building from basic to advanced technique
- •Emphasis on technique over distance to prevent over-exertion
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all landing areas
- •Monitor students for signs of fatigue or loss of control
- •Ensure proper technique to minimise injury risk
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, apply first aid as needed, seek medical attention for serious injuries