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Lesson 2 - Javelin Throwing Technique

Athletic Throwing and Jumping: Whole-Body Power and Control

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Year 5

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we use our whole body to throw a javelin as far as possible?

Learning Objectives

Develop understanding of the three phases of javelin throwing (stance/grip, extension, rotation)
Learn to transfer body weight effectively to increase throwing distance
Apply correct technique to throw a primary school javelin safely and accurately

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate the correct grip and stance for javelin throwing
Students will show progressive improvement in throwing distance through technique application
Students will evaluate their own and others' performance using technical criteria

Equipment & Resources Required

Javelins

1 per student (30)

Check all javelins for damage before use

Alternative: Foam javelins, pool noodles, or throwing sticks

Cones

20-30

Arrange in lines at 5m intervals from throwing area

Alternative: Bean bags or markers

Measuring Tapes

2-3

For accurate distance measurement

Alternative: Trundle wheel or marked court lines

Video Device

Jan Zelezny javelin technique video ready to play

Alternative: Laptop, tablet, or interactive whiteboard

Key Vocabulary

Javelin

A lightweight spear designed to be thrown for distance in athletics

Extension

Fully straightening the throwing arm as the javelin is released

Rotation

Turning the hips and body to generate power for the throw

Weight Transfer

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

Release Point

The moment when the javelin leaves the thrower's hand

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic overarm throwing technique from Key Stage 1
Understanding of accuracy vs distance in throwing
Experience with different throwing implements

Current Skills

Javelin-specific grip and stance
Three-phase throwing sequence
Body rotation and weight transfer
Peer evaluation skills

Next Steps

Advanced javelin techniques including run-up
Throwing in competitive situations
Coaching and leadership roles in athletics

Milestone Indicators

Consistent application of correct grip

Noticeable increase in throwing distance

Ability to identify technique errors in peers

Key Teaching Points

Safety first - all students throw in same direction with adequate spacing
Grip technique - fingers around javelin, not palm grip, above shoulder height
Three-phase progression - master each phase before combining for maximum effectiveness
Extension timing - release when throwing arm passes shoulder level for optimal trajectory
Weight transfer feeling - students should feel shift from back foot to front foot during throw
Rotation power - hip rotation generates more force than arm strength alone
Technique over distance - celebrate good form regardless of throwing distance achieved

Common Misconceptions

Thinking grip strength is more important than finger placement - correct with demonstration of finger control
Believing arm strength alone creates distance - emphasise whole body involvement and weight transfer
Rushing through phases for quick results - reinforce that smooth technique creates better outcomes
Focusing only on throwing hard rather than technique - redirect to efficiency and form over force
Assuming taller students will automatically throw further - highlight that technique beats size advantage

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts, clear technique focus, immediate feedback, movement breaks between phases

dyspraxia

Simplified grip technique, extra practice time, step-by-step movement breakdowns, patient individual support

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual technique sequences, quiet practice areas, predictable partner arrangements

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured javelins, clear verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance for grip, buddy system for safety

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written technique cards, hand signals for instruction, visual distance markers

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, lighter foam javelins, reduced throwing distances, adapted grip techniques for limited mobility

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring throwing distances, calculating point scores, comparing numerical improvements, understanding angles of release

Science

Forces and motion in throwing, energy transfer from body to javelin, lever systems in arm movement, trajectory and gravity effects

Geography

Olympic throwing events around the world, athletics stadiums and field event layouts, directional awareness and spatial concepts

PSHE

Goal-setting and personal improvement, resilience when technique is challenging, fair play and honest assessment, supporting others' learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand behind throwing line with clear view of all students, move along line during individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct grip, full extension, hip rotation, and safe throwing direction

Intervention Points

Step in if students show unsafe behaviour, incorrect technique that could cause injury, or loss of focus

Demonstration Notes

Show all techniques in slow motion first, then normal speed. Emphasise safety and correct form over distance achieved

Verbal Cues

•'Grip with fingers, not palm!'
•'Extend fully as you release!'
•'Feel your weight shift from back to front!'
•'Rotate your hips first, then your arm!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 30m field area clear of obstacles and other activities

Surface Check

Level grass surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all javelins for cracks, splinters, or damage before use
•Ensure javelin tips are blunt and safe for primary use
•Verify cones are in good condition with no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Javelin strikes to students or teacher
•Collisions during throwing or collecting
•Muscle strain from incorrect technique or overexertion

Risk Mitigation

•All throwing in same direction with clear boundaries
•Minimum 4m spacing between throwers on line
•Designated safe collection areas and procedures
•Progressive technique building to prevent muscle strain

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position behind throwing line for maximum visibility
•Monitor throwing area continuously during practice
•Check retrieval procedures are followed safely

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required