Lesson 1 - Running Competitions and Race Tactics
Competitive Athletics: Technique, Tactics and Personal Excellence
•Year 5
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use tactics, technique and teamwork to maximise our performance in athletic running competitions?
Learning Objectives
- To apply effective running techniques in competitive situations
- To understand and implement tactical approaches for different race distances
- To demonstrate teamwork and communication skills in relay races
Key Outcomes
- Students will compete successfully in sprints, relays and distance races using appropriate techniques
- Students will understand pacing strategies and apply them in distance events
- Students will collaborate effectively in team events and demonstrate good sportsmanship
Equipment & Resources Required
Create multiple lanes 40-80m long, plus circular track area
Alternative: Playground markings, sports hall with cones for lanes
Different colours for team identification if possible
Alternative: Foam tubes, wooden batons, pool noodles cut to size
Mark clear lane boundaries and changeover zones
Alternative: Chalk lines, rope boundaries, sports hall lines
Ensure all students can clearly hear/see start signal
Alternative: Voice commands, hand signals for hearing impaired
For timing races and monitoring performance
Alternative: Smartphone timer apps, digital classroom timer
Key Vocabulary
Managing your running speed over distance to maintain energy throughout the race
Using remaining energy for maximum speed in the final section of a distance race
Beginning to run before the official start signal, resulting in disqualification
Staying within your designated running lane throughout the race
The transfer of the relay baton between team members
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running technique with head up and arms pumping
- Understanding of sprint vs distance running differences
- Experience with baton passing in controlled practice
Current Skills
- Competitive application of running techniques
- Tactical decision making in race situations
- Team coordination and relay changeovers under pressure
Next Steps
- Advanced race tactics and strategic positioning
- Leadership in organising competitive events
- Analysis and improvement of team performance
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Technique must be maintained even under competitive pressure
- Different race distances require different tactical approaches and pacing strategies
- Effective teamwork and communication are as important as individual running ability
- Fair play and sportsmanship are fundamental to athletic competition
- Personal improvement and effort are more valuable than winning or losing
- Strategic thinking enhances performance in team events like relays and distance races
- Proper warm-up and cool-down prevent injury and aid recovery
Common Misconceptions
- Sprinting from the start is always the best strategy - explain pacing for different distances
- Only the fastest runner matters in team events - emphasise all team members' importance
- Technique becomes less important when racing - stress maintaining form under pressure
- Relay races are just about individual speed - highlight teamwork and baton skills
- Distance running is just slow jogging - explain strategic pace management and sprint finishes
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter races initially, clear role definitions, frequent positive feedback, movement breaks between events
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for baton handling, simplified movement patterns, buddy support system for organisation
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedules of race order, quiet spaces available for breaks, consistent routines and expectations
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured markers for lane boundaries, verbal descriptions of race positions, guide runners for support if needed
hearing impairment
- Visual start signals using flags or hand signals, clear visual demonstrations, written race instructions available
physical disability
- Adapted distances for wheelchairs, modified relay handover procedures, alternative roles like timekeeper or judge
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Timing races, calculating lap splits, measuring distances, working with averages and personal best times
Science
Understanding energy systems, heart rate changes, muscle fatigue, effects of training on body
Geography
Understanding distances, map reading for orienteering events, compass directions in navigation
PSHE
Teamwork skills, dealing with winning and losing, personal challenge, goal setting and perseverance
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between start/finish positions and along side of track for optimal view of technique and safety
Observation Focus
Monitor running technique maintenance under pressure, team dynamics, tactical decision making
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe behaviour, technique breakdown causing injury risk, or unsporting conduct
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for technique points, show incorrect vs correct examples, involve students in demonstrations when appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Technique first, speed second!'
- •'Trust your teammates in relay changes!'
- •'Smart pacing beats early sprinting!'
- •'Drive through the finish line!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large outdoor space or sports hall minimum 80m x 40m for multiple lanes plus circular track area
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas that could cause slips or falls
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check batons for cracks or splinters that could injure hands
- •Ensure lane markers are secure and not trip hazards
- •Verify all equipment is age-appropriate size and weight
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between runners in lanes or changeover areas
- •Falls due to poor surface conditions or obstacles
- •Overexertion in distance events
- •Baton-related injuries from poor handling
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear lane boundaries established and maintained throughout
- •Adequate spacing between lanes (minimum 1.2m wide)
- •Proper warm-up to prevent muscle injuries
- •Hydration breaks available, especially in warm weather
- •Progressive introduction of competitive intensity
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all race lanes simultaneously
- •Monitor changeover zones for smooth baton transfers
- •Watch for signs of overexertion in distance events
- •Ensure fair starts and rule compliance
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required