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Lesson 5 - Relay Baton Transfer and Teamwork

Power, Precision & Performance

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Year 5

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we work as a team to transfer a relay baton efficiently and compete with determination?

Learning Objectives

To transfer a relay baton efficiently as part of a team using proper technique
To understand positioning and timing required for effective baton exchanges
To compete with enjoyment while challenging themselves to improve performance

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate efficient baton transfer techniques in relay situations
Students will explain the key factors for successful relay changeovers
Students will show determination and teamwork while competing in relay races

Equipment & Resources Required

Relay Baton

8-12 batons

Distribute at relay stations, ensure they're lightweight and safe

Alternative: Bean bags, foam tubes, or cardboard tubes

Cones

22 cones

Use different colours for different stations and finish lines

Alternative: Disc markers, spots, or cardboard markers

Measuring Tapes

For setting up accurate relay distances

Alternative: Marked measuring string or pace counting

Stopwatch

2-4 stopwatches

For timing relay races and adding competitive element

Alternative: Phone timer apps or countdown apps

Key Vocabulary

Baton

A cylindrical object passed between team members in a relay race

Changeover

The point where one runner passes the baton to the next runner

Alternate hands

Passing technique where right hand passes to left hand and vice versa

Exchange zone

The designated area where baton transfers must take place

Pursuit relay

A type of relay where teams start simultaneously and chase each other

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running technique and spatial awareness
Understanding of teamwork and following instructions
Experience with simple passing activities

Current Skills

Relay baton transfer using alternate hands
Positioning and timing for efficient changeovers
Competitive relay racing with strategic thinking

Next Steps

Advanced relay techniques including visual vs non-visual passes
Competition preparation and race strategy
Introduction to other athletics events requiring teamwork

Milestone Indicators

Smooth baton exchanges without dropping

Consistent use of alternate hand technique

Strategic thinking about team composition and running order

Key Teaching Points

Alternate hands technique prevents awkward reaching across the body
Receivers must be ready and moving, not stationary
Clear communication is essential for smooth exchanges
Eyes should look forward during running, not down at the baton
Strategic thinking about team running order can improve performance
Competitive spirit and determination matter as much as technique
Supporting teammates enhances whole team performance

Common Misconceptions

Thinking same-hand exchanges are easier - they're actually less efficient
Believing receivers should stand still - movement makes exchanges smoother
Assuming only the fastest runners should be in relay teams
Thinking relay running is just about individual speed rather than team technique
Believing competition means not supporting opponents - good sportsmanship is essential

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break into shorter activity segments, provide clear boundaries, use movement constructively throughout lesson

dyspraxia

Use larger, lighter batons, reduce distances initially, provide additional practice time and verbal cues

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available for breaks if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured batons and cones, provide verbal descriptions of track layout, assign sighted partner for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for starts and stops, demonstrate all instructions clearly, provide written copies of key points

physical disability

Modify to walking pace relay, use seated passing if needed, adapt baton size for easier gripping

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, discussion skills, explaining tactics and techniques to others

Maths

Measuring relay distances, timing races, calculating team positions and race improvements

Science

Understanding momentum and energy transfer in relay exchanges, forces in running and stopping

Geography

Discussing athletics venues around the world, mapping locations of major athletics events

PSHE

Teamwork, supporting others, dealing with competition pressure, self-assessment and honest reflection

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position where you can see all groups during station work, central position for pursuit relays to monitor safety

Observation Focus

Watch for smooth baton transfers, correct alternate hands technique, team cooperation, and competitive attitude

Intervention Points

Step in if technique is consistently poor, if safety risks develop, or if team dynamics become negative

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, slow demonstrations initially, then show at race pace. Emphasise the contrast between awkward same-hand passing and smooth alternate-hand technique

Verbal Cues

•'Alternate hands - right to left, left to right!'
•'Be ready and moving when you receive!'
•'Eyes forward, not on the baton!'
•'Support your teammates!'
•'Think strategy - what's your best running order?'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 30m x 40m, or sports hall with adequate length for relay tracks

Surface Check

Even, non-slip surface free from holes, debris or wet patches that could cause falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check relay batons have no sharp edges or cracks
•Ensure cones are stable and clearly visible
•Verify adequate grip on batons to prevent dropping

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between runners from different teams
•Falls during high-speed running
•Baton strikes if dropped or thrown
•Fatigue from intensive running activity

Risk Mitigation

•Clear lane separation between relay groups
•Adequate warm-up to prepare muscles
•Graduated speed increase from walk to run
•Clear rules about staying in designated areas
•Teacher positioning for maximum visibility

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all relay lanes simultaneously
•Monitor exchange zones for safe technique
•Watch for signs of fatigue or distress
•Ensure pursuit relay track remains clear of obstacles

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, arrange further support if needed