Lesson 1 - Throwing for Accuracy and Distance
Throwing & Jumping Skills
•Year 4
•Athletics
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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
Different colours help with identification and collection
Alternative: Small foam balls, tennis balls
Set at equal distances for accuracy stations
Alternative: Cones, targets, chalk circles
Create clear 10m interval lines across area
Alternative: Sports markers, rope with knots
For setting up accurate distances and measurements
Alternative: Pre-measured rope, paced distances
Key Vocabulary
The ability to hit a specific target or area consistently
How far an object can be thrown using maximum force and correct technique
The exact moment when you let go of the object to achieve your intended result
The position of your feet and body when preparing to throw
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
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