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Lesson 1 - Throwing for Accuracy and Distance

Throwing & Jumping Skills

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Year 4

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How does our throwing technique change when we aim for accuracy versus distance, and why do different sports require different types of throws?

Learning Objectives

Develop understanding of the difference between throwing for accuracy and throwing for distance
Master underarm throwing technique for accuracy with correct stance and release timing
Learn overarm throwing technique for distance with proper body positioning

Key Outcomes

Students will execute accurate underarm throws with correct stance and timing
Students will demonstrate overarm throws for distance with appropriate technique
Students will explain when to use accuracy versus distance throwing in different sports

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls

1 per student (30)

Different colours help with identification and collection

Alternative: Small foam balls, tennis balls

Hoops

9 (3 sets of 3)

Set at equal distances for accuracy stations

Alternative: Cones, targets, chalk circles

Sun Markers

15 (for 10m intervals)

Create clear 10m interval lines across area

Alternative: Sports markers, rope with knots

Measuring Tapes

For setting up accurate distances and measurements

Alternative: Pre-measured rope, paced distances

Key Vocabulary

Accuracy

The ability to hit a specific target or area consistently

Distance

How far an object can be thrown using maximum force and correct technique

Release timing

The exact moment when you let go of the object to achieve your intended result

Stance

The position of your feet and body when preparing to throw

Follow through

The continuation of arm movement after releasing the object

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic underarm throwing from Year 3
Understanding of sending and receiving
Experience with bean bags and balls

Current Skills

Distinguishing accuracy from distance throwing
Correct stance and body positioning
Release timing for different purposes

Next Steps

Advanced throwing techniques in athletics events
Application in competitive athletics
Understanding of force and trajectory

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accuracy in target throwing

Improved distance with correct technique

Ability to coach peers effectively

Key Teaching Points

Accuracy throwing requires facing the target with controlled underarm action
Distance throwing needs sideways stance with high overarm technique
Release timing is crucial - just past the head for distance, towards target for accuracy
Different sports require different throwing techniques depending on their purpose
Technique development should come before power in throwing progression
Safety in throwing activities requires clear collection procedures and throwing directions
Partner encouragement and coaching enhances learning and enjoyment

Common Misconceptions

Students think throwing harder always means throwing further - technique is more important
Believing the same technique works for both accuracy and distance throwing
Assuming overarm throwing is always better than underarm throwing
Thinking release timing doesn't matter if you have good arm strength
Misconception that you can't improve throwing without being naturally athletic

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, larger targets, extra practice time, physical prompting

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet reflection area available

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured bean bags, audio cues for targets, partner guidance for direction

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for commands

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, modified equipment grip, adjusted target distances

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances, scoring and addition, understanding angles and trajectory

Science

Forces and motion, gravity and trajectory, understanding of muscle groups

Geography

Direction and distance, compass points in throwing direction

PSHE

Goal setting, resilience when missing targets, supporting others' learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of activity area to observe all students, position behind throwing line during practice

Observation Focus

Watch for correct stance, release timing, and safety compliance

Intervention Points

Step in if technique becomes unsafe, if students are struggling with concepts, or if competition becomes too intense

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show clear differences, repeat demonstrations from multiple angles, involve students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Face your target!'
•'Sideways stance!'
•'High arm for distance!'
•'Smooth follow through!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 30m outdoor space with clear throwing lanes

Surface Check

Level grass or playground surface, free from holes or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Bean bags checked for secure stitching
•Hoops inspected for cracks or sharp edges
•Distance markers firmly placed and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Bean bags hitting other students
•Collisions during collection
•Overexertion in distance throwing

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing direction established
•Collection only on teacher command
•Adequate spacing between throwing pairs
•Progressive build-up of throwing intensity

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all throwing and collection areas
•Move around to check technique and safety
•Monitor for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, apply first aid if qualified, seek additional help if needed