Lesson 3 - Triple Jump Techniques
Power, Precision & Performance
•Year 5
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use different jumping techniques to maximise our distance and height in athletics?
Learning Objectives
- To perform correct techniques for triple jump, high jump and standing vertical jump
- To measure and record jumping performance accurately
- To understand the biomechanical principles behind effective jumping
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate the hop-step-jump sequence with proper technique
- Students will execute scissor kick high jump with curved approach
- Students will measure and record vertical jump distances using mathematical calculations
Equipment & Resources Required
Used for marking distances, approach runs, and team areas
Alternative: Markers, spots
Set at low height initially, adjustable upwards
Alternative: Adjustable cones with cane/rope
Should be easily displaced if knocked
Alternative: Rope, elastic band
For measuring jump distances and vertical reach
Alternative: Rulers, metre sticks
Fixed to wall at appropriate height for vertical jump measurement
Alternative: Large paper sheets, wall charts
For marking reach points on paper
Alternative: Washable markers, finger paint
To secure measuring paper to walls
Alternative: Tape, magnets
Safety mats for high jump landing areas
Alternative: Soft landing areas
Key Vocabulary
An athletics event involving three consecutive phases: hop, step, and jump
High jump method where legs move in a scissor-like motion over the bar
Running path that arcs towards the high jump bar to optimise take-off angle
Jumping straight up from a standing position to reach maximum height
The preferred foot used to launch into a jump
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running and jumping movements
- Understanding of take-off and landing safety
- Experience with measuring and recording in athletics
Current Skills
- Triple jump hop-step-jump sequence
- High jump scissor technique with curved approach
- Vertical jump measurement and recording
Next Steps
- Advanced jumping techniques and combinations
- Competition-style jumping events
- Technical analysis and performance improvement
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Triple jump sequence 'same, different, both' provides clear memory aid for foot sequencing
- Curved approach in high jump creates optimal take-off angle and improves clearance efficiency
- Vertical jump power comes from explosive leg drive combined with coordinated arm swing
- Mathematical application reinforces measurement skills and connects physical performance to academic learning
- Safety awareness and teamwork are essential components of all athletics activities
- Technique development should always take priority over distance or height achievement
- Self-assessment and reflection skills support lifelong learning and personal development
Common Misconceptions
- Triple jump is just three big jumps - actually requires specific foot sequence and rhythm
- High jump approach should be straight - curved approach is biomechanically more effective
- Jumping higher means using only leg muscles - whole body coordination is essential
- Measurements don't matter in PE - mathematical skills enhance understanding and engagement
- Athletics is only for naturally talented students - technique can be learned and improved by all
- Competition is most important - cooperation and personal improvement are equally valuable
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear focus points, use movement and variety to maintain engagement, offer leadership roles
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for coordination development, step-by-step technique breakdown, visual and physical guides for sequencing, celebrate small improvements
autism spectrum
- Clear visual sequences for technique learning, consistent routines and expectations, quiet spaces available if needed, advance notice of activity changes
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured markers for approach runs, verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guides for foot placement, buddy system for safety support
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for communication, ensure students can see teacher at all times
physical disability
- Adapt jumping techniques to individual capabilities, use seated versions where appropriate, focus on personal improvement rather than absolute performance
Cross-Curricular Links
Science
Forces and motion in jumping, biomechanics of take-off and landing, energy transfer in explosive movements, physics of curved motion and angles
Geography
Spatial awareness and direction, understanding angles and curves, mapping approach runs and measuring distances accurately
Mathematics
Measurement and data handling, calculating team totals, division for problem-solving, comparing heights and distances, working with decimal numbers
PSHE
Teamwork and collaboration, self-assessment and reflection, celebrating diversity in physical abilities, supporting others' learning and development
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position to observe multiple jumping areas simultaneously, move between stations to provide individual feedback and ensure safety protocols
Observation Focus
Watch for technique development, safety awareness, team collaboration, and mathematical problem-solving accuracy
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe practices observed, provide additional support for struggling students, facilitate peer learning opportunities
Demonstration Notes
Use students showing good technique as models, break down complex movements into simple steps, emphasise safety throughout all demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Same, different, both!' for triple jump sequence
- •'Crouch and drive!' for vertical jump power
- •'Curve to create angle!' for high jump approach
- •'Technique first, distance second!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 30m, or spacious sports hall with high ceiling clearance for jumping
Surface Check
Even, non-slip surface free from holes, debris, or wet areas that could cause slips or falls
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •High jump bar easily displaced if contacted
- •Landing mats properly positioned and secure
- •Measuring equipment free from sharp edges
- •Chalk non-toxic and washable
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision between students during running approaches
- •Falls during jumping activities
- •Impact injuries from poor landing technique
- •Overexertion during sustained jumping activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and approach lanes established
- •Proper progression from simple to complex movements
- •Emphasis on technique over distance or height
- •Adequate rest periods between intense activities
- •Safety helpers positioned for high jump activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all approach runs and landing areas
- •Monitor fatigue levels during sustained activities
- •Ensure safety protocols followed for high jump
- •Watch for proper warm-up and cool-down participation
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required, complete incident documentation