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Lesson 7 - Distance Throwing Accuracy

Whole-Body Technique

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Year 4

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

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

Balls

One per group of three students

Alternative: Tennis balls, soft balls

Cones

For marking boundaries, goals, and distance markers

Alternative: Markers, spots

Foam Javelins

Safe throwing implements, one per group

Alternative: Pool noodles, foam tubes

Measuring Tapes

For measuring throwing distances

Alternative: Marked cones at 5m intervals

Key Vocabulary

Pull throw

A throwing technique where the arm is pulled past the head to create power

Weight transfer

Moving body weight from back leg to front leg during the throw

Follow through

Continuing the arm movement after releasing the object

Side-on stance

Standing with your side facing the direction of throw

Release point

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

Consistent side-on stance

Smooth weight transfer visible

Improved throwing distance over multiple attempts

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