Lesson 7 - Javelin Throw Technique
Technique & Teamwork Focus
•Year 5
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Check all javelins for damage before use, ensure tips are intact
Alternative: Pool noodles, cardboard tubes, or lightweight throwing sticks
Use to mark throwing area, safety zones, and measurement points
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or chalk lines
Position at start line for easy measuring access
Alternative: Trundle wheels, metre sticks, or pre-marked ground
Include columns for attempt number, distance, and improvement points
Alternative: Whiteboard and markers, or mental recording
Key Vocabulary
A light spear designed for throwing in athletic competitions
Moving your body weight from back foot to front foot during the throw
Taking steps before throwing to build up speed and momentum
Continuing the throwing motion after releasing the javelin
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
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