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Lesson 1 - Running Competitions and Race Tactics

Competitive Athletics: Technique, Tactics and Personal Excellence

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Year 5

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Athletics

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Big Question

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

Track

1 large space

Create multiple lanes 40-80m long, plus circular track area

Alternative: Playground markings, sports hall with cones for lanes

Relay Baton

8-12 batons

Different colours for team identification if possible

Alternative: Foam tubes, wooden batons, pool noodles cut to size

Markers Cones

20-30 cones

Mark clear lane boundaries and changeover zones

Alternative: Chalk lines, rope boundaries, sports hall lines

Whistles

Ensure all students can clearly hear/see start signal

Alternative: Voice commands, hand signals for hearing impaired

Stopwatch

2-4 timers

For timing races and monitoring performance

Alternative: Smartphone timer apps, digital classroom timer

Key Vocabulary

Pacing

Managing your running speed over distance to maintain energy throughout the race

Sprint finish

Using remaining energy for maximum speed in the final section of a distance race

False start

Beginning to run before the official start signal, resulting in disqualification

Lane discipline

Staying within your designated running lane throughout the race

Baton changeover

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

Maintains technique quality during competitive pressure

Makes appropriate tactical decisions based on race situation

Demonstrates leadership and encouragement of teammates

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