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Lesson 3 - Relay Communication & Technique

Whole-Body Technique

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Year 4

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Athletics

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52 min

Big Question

How can effective communication and technique help us work as a team in relay races?

Learning Objectives

To develop communication skills in relay changeovers
To improve technique in holding and receiving relay batons
To run with fluency and coordination in relay situations

Key Outcomes

Students will communicate clearly with teammates during changeovers
Students will demonstrate proper baton handling technique
Students will show improved running form and coordination

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Place cones to mark start/finish lines and changeover zones

Alternative: Markers, bibs, or chalk lines for boundaries

Relay Baton

One baton per group of four students

Alternative: Foam tubes, cardboard tubes, or small plastic bottles

Key Vocabulary

Relay baton

A stick passed between team members in relay races

Changeover

The moment when one runner passes the baton to the next runner

Buzz word

A clear signal word (like 'hand') used to communicate during changeovers

Ready position

Standing position with knees bent and weight forward, ready to start running

Fluency

Smooth, coordinated movement without hesitation or stumbling

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running with coordination
Understanding of following instructions
Experience working in pairs and small groups

Current Skills

Clear communication during physical activity
Proper baton handling technique
Relay changeover skills
Team cooperation and timing

Next Steps

Advanced relay techniques
Competitive relay racing
Leadership in team events
Strategic positioning in athletics

Milestone Indicators

Consistent use of communication signals

Smooth baton changeovers without dropping

Maintained running form during transitions

Effective team coordination

Key Teaching Points

Communication is the key to successful relay changeovers
Hold the baton at the end to give teammates space to grip it
Prepare your receiving hand early with fingers spread wide
Maintain running pace during changeovers rather than stopping
Use clear, loud 'buzz words' to signal changeover timing
Focus on technique first, speed will follow naturally
Good sportsmanship makes activities enjoyable for everyone

Common Misconceptions

Thinking faster running automatically means better relay performance - technique and timing are equally important
Believing you must stop or slow down significantly for changeovers - smooth transitions maintain momentum
Assuming louder shouting is better communication - clear, well-timed signals are more effective
Thinking only the fastest runners make good relay team members - communication and reliability are crucial
Believing baton drops are always the fault of the receiver - both passer and receiver share responsibility

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries marked with cones, regular movement and role rotation

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter batons, extended practice time, break down changeover into smaller steps

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, designated quiet zone if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured batons, clear verbal descriptions of positioning, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual signals for changeovers, demonstration-heavy instruction, written buzz word cards

physical disability

Modify baton to be easier to grip, reduce distances, allow seated participation in discussion roles

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Clear communication skills, vocabulary development for sports terms, listening and following instructions

Maths

Measuring distances for relay legs, timing changeovers, calculating team performance improvements

Science

Forces in sprint starts, momentum in changeovers, energy transfer between runners

Geography

Directional language in relay courses, spatial awareness and positioning

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, respect for others, dealing with competition pressure and results

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups to observe changeover technique, position centrally during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for communication timing, baton handling safety, and sportsmanship during competitive elements

Intervention Points

Step in if changeovers become unsafe, technique deteriorates significantly, or team conflicts arise

Demonstration Notes

Use students as partners for demonstrations, exaggerate key points like hand position and communication timing

Verbal Cues

•'HAND loud and clear!'
•'Fingers wide for the baton!'
•'Keep running through the change!'
•'Technique first, speed second!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear space, preferably grass or sports hall with good grip

Surface Check

Even surface free from holes, wet patches, or loose objects that could cause slipping

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check relay batons for cracks or sharp edges before use
•Ensure cones are stable and placed securely
•Verify all equipment is age-appropriate size and weight

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during changeovers
•Slips and falls during direction changes
•Baton strikes if thrown or dropped carelessly
•Overexertion during sprint phases

Risk Mitigation

•Clear changeover zones with adequate space
•Emphasis on controlled approach to changeovers
•Proper baton handling instruction and supervision
•Progressive intensity building throughout lesson

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe multiple changeover zones simultaneously
•Monitor for proper technique to prevent unsafe practices
•Watch for signs of fatigue affecting control and decision-making

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if incident occurs, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school first aider if needed