Lesson 4 - Relay Running and Baton Changeovers
Sprint to Strategy: Building Running Excellence Through Technique and Tactics
•Year 5
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can teams work together strategically to achieve maximum speed in relay races?
Learning Objectives
- To develop relay running technique with effective baton changeovers
- To apply sprinting technique in a team context
- To understand and use tactical communication for smooth changeovers
Key Outcomes
- Students will execute successful baton changeovers using correct technique
- Students will apply individual sprinting skills within team relay races
- Students will demonstrate effective communication and teamwork strategies
Equipment & Resources Required
Check batons are lightweight and safe to handle
Alternative: Short cones, foam tubes, or paper tubes
Create clear lane boundaries and changeover zones
Alternative: Chalk lines, rope boundaries, or flat markers
For accurate lane and zone measurements
Alternative: Pre-marked distances or paced measurements
Time relay races and individual legs
Alternative: Smartphone timer or team timekeepers
Key Vocabulary
A team race where members take turns to complete sections of the course
The object passed between relay team members to continue the race
The moment when the baton is passed from one runner to the next
The designated area where baton exchanges must take place
The final runner in a relay team who crosses the finish line
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic sprinting technique with arm and leg drive
- Understanding of running in lanes
- Basic concept of relay races
Current Skills
- Baton changeover technique
- Strategic positioning in changeover zones
- Team communication during relays
Next Steps
- Advanced relay strategies and tactics
- Competitive relay racing
- Leadership roles in team athletics
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Baton changeovers are about timing and trust, not just speed
- Palm up and steady hand position is crucial for successful exchanges
- Communication between teammates is essential for smooth changeovers
- Team strategy and running order can significantly impact relay success
- Lane discipline and safety must be maintained throughout all races
- Practice builds confidence - start slow and gradually increase pace
- Every team member's contribution is vital for overall success
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking faster individual runners always make the best relay teams - correct by emphasising changeover skills and teamwork
- Believing you should look back when receiving the baton - teach trust and forward focus
- Assuming the fastest runner should always run the anchor leg - discuss strategic positioning
- Thinking relay races are just individual races with passing - emphasise the team dynamic and coordination required
- Believing dropped batons can be picked up without penalty - teach the disqualification rule clearly
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments with regular breaks, clear boundaries and expectations, fidget tools available, movement breaks between instructions
dyspraxia
- Larger, lighter batons for easier handling, extra practice time for coordination, simplified changeover technique, visual cues for positioning
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of lesson activities, consistent routine and structure, quiet zones available, predictable team arrangements
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured batons, clear verbal cues for positioning, buddy system with sighted partner, tactile markers for changeover zones
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals and hand gestures, written instruction cards, ensure face-to-face communication, use bright coloured flags for race starts
physical disability
- Seated relay variations, modified baton design for easier gripping, shorter distances, adapted changeover techniques
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, clear communication skills, following and giving instructions effectively
Maths
Measuring distances for changeover zones, timing relay legs, calculating team averages and improvements
Science
Forces in acceleration, momentum transfer during changeovers, physics of efficient running biomechanics
PSHE
Teamwork and collaboration, trust and communication, resilience in competitive situations, leadership development
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around track perimeter to observe all changeover zones and provide support where needed
Observation Focus
Watch for smooth baton changeovers, lane discipline, team communication, and application of sprint technique
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe practices observed, provide encouragement for struggling teams, facilitate team discussions
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements for baton technique, demonstrate both correct and incorrect methods for comparison, involve confident students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Palm up and steady!'
- •'Start moving when your partner is 5 metres away!'
- •'Trust your teammate!'
- •'Smooth changeovers win races!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 80m straight track or equivalent circular track with clear run-off areas
Surface Check
Dry, even running surface free from holes, debris, or hazardous materials
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check batons for damage, cracks, or sharp edges
- •Ensure cones are stable and visible
- •Remove any damaged equipment immediately
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between runners
- •Baton-related injuries
- •Trips and falls
- •Overexertion in competitive situations
Risk Mitigation
- •Clearly marked lanes with adequate spacing (minimum 1.5m apart)
- •Proper baton handling instruction and practice
- •Progressive skill building from walking to running pace
- •Clear communication protocols and safety calls
- •Adequate warm-up and cool-down procedures
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all changeover zones
- •Monitor for lane discipline and safe spacing
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately if accident occurs, assess injuries, provide appropriate first aid, clear area if necessary