Lesson 3 - Relay Communication & Technique
Whole-Body Technique
•Year 4
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Place cones to mark start/finish lines and changeover zones
Alternative: Markers, bibs, or chalk lines for boundaries
One baton per group of four students
Alternative: Foam tubes, cardboard tubes, or small plastic bottles
Key Vocabulary
A stick passed between team members in relay races
The moment when one runner passes the baton to the next runner
A clear signal word (like 'hand') used to communicate during changeovers
Standing position with knees bent and weight forward, ready to start running
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
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