Lesson 7 - Distance Throwing Accuracy
Whole-Body Technique
•Year 4
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use our whole body to create maximum power and accuracy when throwing?
Learning Objectives
- To develop a pull throw technique for distance and accuracy
- To understand how body position and weight transfer affect throwing power
- To apply throwing skills in competitive and collaborative activities
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved pull throw technique with correct weight transfer
- Students will show understanding of how arm position affects throwing distance
- Students will work cooperatively in groups while maintaining safety
Equipment & Resources Required
One per group of three students
Alternative: Tennis balls, soft balls
For marking boundaries, goals, and distance markers
Alternative: Markers, spots
Safe throwing implements, one per group
Alternative: Pool noodles, foam tubes
For measuring throwing distances
Alternative: Marked cones at 5m intervals
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm is pulled past the head to create power
Moving body weight from back leg to front leg during the throw
Continuing the arm movement after releasing the object
Standing with your side facing the direction of throw
The moment when you let go of the object being thrown
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic overarm throwing action
- Understanding of safety when using equipment
- Ability to follow instructions and take turns
Current Skills
- Pull throw technique with weight transfer
- Throwing for accuracy and distance
- Javelin-style throwing with foam implements
Next Steps
- Advanced throwing techniques
- Competitive athletics events
- Measuring and recording personal bests
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Side-on stance with opposite foot forward creates stable throwing position
- Weight transfer from back to front leg generates power in the throw
- Arm should start as far back as comfortable for maximum range of motion
- Release point as hand passes head ensures optimal trajectory
- Follow through in direction of throw improves accuracy and distance
- Straight arm is essential for javelin throwing safety and effectiveness
- Accurate throwing leads to better distance as straight throws travel further
Common Misconceptions
- More force always means better throws - actually technique and timing are more important
- Facing forward gives better aim - side-on stance provides more power and better biomechanics
- Accuracy and distance are separate skills - they work together as straight throws travel further
- Throwing is all about arm strength - whole body coordination and weight transfer are crucial
- Starting position doesn't matter - where you start your throw determines how much power you can generate
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear physical boundaries, regular positive reinforcement
dyspraxia
- Simplified technique breakdown, extra practice time, larger/softer equipment initially
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones if needed for processing
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of technique, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, visual signals for commands
physical disability
- Adapt throwing implements to suit grip ability, seated throwing positions, modified distances
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances, comparing improvements, recording scores and calculating averages
Science
Understanding forces and motion, investigating how body position affects power generation
Geography
Using directional language, understanding angles and trajectories
PSHE
Showing determination, supporting others, being a fair official and good sport
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand where you can observe all groups, move to side during throwing for safety
Observation Focus
Watch for correct technique development, safety compliance, and group cooperation
Intervention Points
Step in if safety protocols not followed, technique needs individual support, or group dynamics need guidance
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate complete technique slowly first, then at normal speed. Use students to demonstrate good examples when appropriate.
Verbal Cues
- •'Side-on stance!'
- •'Weight transfer!'
- •'Follow through!'
- •'Straight arm for javelin!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear area for throwing activities
Surface Check
Level surface free from holes, debris or obstacles
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check foam javelins for damage before use
- •Ensure beanbags are in good condition
- •Cones positioned safely away from throwing zones
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision with thrown objects
- •Students entering throwing area during activity
- •Tripping over equipment or uneven surfaces
Risk Mitigation
- •All throws in same direction with clear throwing zone
- •Students only throw and collect on teacher command
- •Officials positioned safely to side of throwing area
- •Clear boundaries established and maintained
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to see all throwing activity
- •Monitor student movement during warm-up
- •Ensure safe equipment handling throughout
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safe