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Lesson 7 - Javelin Throw Technique

Technique & Teamwork Focus

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Year 5

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use controlled body movements to maximise the distance we can throw a javelin safely?

Learning Objectives

To develop javelin throwing technique with proper stance, weight transfer and follow-through
To understand how approach run affects throwing distance and accuracy
To measure and compare throwing distances using mathematical skills

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate correct javelin throwing stance with weight transfer
Students will successfully add a three-stride approach run to their throw
Students will measure improvements and calculate point scores accurately

Equipment & Resources Required

Foam Javelins

10 (1 per 3 students)

Check all javelins for damage before use, ensure tips are intact

Alternative: Pool noodles, cardboard tubes, or lightweight throwing sticks

Cones

Use to mark throwing area, safety zones, and measurement points

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or chalk lines

Tape Measure

4 (1 per group area)

Position at start line for easy measuring access

Alternative: Trundle wheels, metre sticks, or pre-marked ground

Score Sheets

10 (1 per group)

Include columns for attempt number, distance, and improvement points

Alternative: Whiteboard and markers, or mental recording

Key Vocabulary

Javelin

A light spear designed for throwing in athletic competitions

Weight transfer

Moving your body weight from back foot to front foot during the throw

Approach run

Taking steps before throwing to build up speed and momentum

Follow-through

Continuing the throwing motion after releasing the javelin

Trajectory

The curved path the javelin takes through the air

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic overarm throwing from Year 4
Understanding of fair play and taking turns
Experience measuring distances with simple tools

Current Skills

Correct javelin grip and stance
Weight transfer from back to front foot
Three-stride approach technique
Measuring and recording improvements

Next Steps

Competitive javelin events with scoring systems
Cross-over step technique for advanced throwers
Links to shot put and discus throwing events

Milestone Indicators

Maintains correct stance throughout throw

Demonstrates clear weight transfer

Successfully combines approach run with throwing technique

Shows measurable improvement over multiple attempts

Key Teaching Points

Safety commands must be followed absolutely - only throw and collect on teacher instruction
Side-on stance provides the foundation for all javelin technique and power generation
Weight transfer from back to front foot is the key to generating throwing power
Approach run should be controlled - three strides building speed, not a sprint
Javelin tip should point slightly upward for optimal trajectory and distance
Measuring accuracy is crucial - always measure to where the tip first touches ground
Focus on technique improvement rather than just distance - good technique creates distance

Common Misconceptions

Students think facing forward gives more power - explain side-on stance provides better technique
Belief that running fast equals throwing far - emphasise controlled approach run over speed
Assumption that strength alone determines distance - demonstrate how technique multiplies power
Thinking javelin should be thrown like a ball - explain the importance of straight arm and follow-through
Believing the run-up always helps everyone - some students may throw further from standing position initially

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, provide fidget tools during listening time, assign specific roles to maintain focus, celebrate immediate improvements

dyspraxia

Break down technique into smaller steps, allow extra practice time, use physical guidance for positioning, provide simplified scoring system, focus on effort over accuracy

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual routine cards, allow extra processing time for instructions, create quiet observation space if needed, use consistent language and commands

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured foam javelins, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, use tactile guidance for stance positioning, assign sighted peer buddy

hearing impairment

Use clear visual signals for throw/collect commands, provide written technique checklist, demonstrate all instructions clearly, position for clear visual communication

physical disability

Adapt throwing position for wheelchair users, use lighter alternative equipment if needed, modify approach run to achievable movement pattern, focus on individual improvement

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances in metres and centimetres, calculating improvements and scoring points, using addition and subtraction for team scores

Science

Understanding forces and motion, momentum and energy transfer, trajectory and flight paths, body mechanics and muscle groups

Geography

Using measuring skills similar to fieldwork, understanding scale and distance, compass directions for throwing zones

PSHE

Leadership skills through group management, resilience through practice and improvement, teamwork and mutual support during activities

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at angle to see all throwing areas, avoid standing directly behind throwers

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique sequence, safety compliance, and engagement levels

Intervention Points

Step in immediately if safety rules broken, or when technique errors need correction

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate from side-on view so students can see stance and weight transfer clearly

Verbal Cues

•'Side-on stance, that's perfect!'
•'Feel that weight transfer from back to front!'
•'Remember, technique first, distance will follow!'
•'Officials ready? Throwers ready? Throw!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 30m outdoor area with clear throwing lanes and safe collection zones

Surface Check

Level grass or marked surface free from holes, stones, or other hazards that could cause trips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Inspect all foam javelins for damage or sharp edges before use
•Ensure measuring tapes are not damaged and retract properly
•Check cones are visible and positioned clearly

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Javelin strikes to people in throwing area
•Collisions during approach runs
•Trips and falls during measuring activities
•Overexertion during throwing attempts

Risk Mitigation

•Strict throw and collect commands followed by all participants
•Clear throwing lanes marked with adequate spacing between groups
•Officials positioned safely outside throwing areas
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic techniques
•Regular checks for fatigue and appropriate rest periods

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all throwing areas simultaneously
•Monitor compliance with throw/collect commands strictly
•Circulate to check technique and prevent unsafe practices

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, secure area if equipment involved