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Lesson 3 - Relay Changeover Techniques

Technique & Teamwork Focus

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Year 5

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can effective communication and technique make relay changeovers smooth and successful?

Learning Objectives

To develop technique in relay changeovers using both upsweep and downsweep methods
To communicate effectively with teammates during baton exchanges
To choose appropriate pacing for relay running events

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate both upsweep and downsweep changeover techniques
Students will communicate effectively with teammates about preferred baton exchange methods
Students will select and maintain appropriate running pace for relay events

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Use for spacing, track boundaries, and target points

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or chalk marks

Relay Baton

Check all batons are safe and appropriate size for Year 5 hands

Alternative: Cardboard tubes, foam pool noodles cut to 30cm lengths

Key Vocabulary

Downsweep

A baton changeover technique where the deliverer places the baton downward into the receiver's upward-facing palm

Upsweep

A baton changeover technique where the deliverer places the baton upward into the receiver's downward-facing palm

Changeover

The moment when the baton is passed from one runner to the next in a relay race

Deliverer

The runner who is giving the baton to their teammate

Receiver

The runner who is accepting the baton from their teammate

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 relay activities

Current Skills

Relay baton handling and changeover techniques
Team communication during competitive activities
Strategic thinking about pacing and timing

Next Steps

Advanced relay strategies and zone positioning
Competitive relay racing with time trials
Leading and coaching others in relay techniques

Milestone Indicators

Smooth baton exchanges without dropping

Clear communication about preferred receiving method

Consistent pacing throughout relay legs

Key Teaching Points

Hold the baton at one end only, leaving space for the next person to grasp
Clear communication about preferred changeover technique is essential for smooth exchanges
Receiver should start moving as the deliverer approaches for optimal timing
Both upsweep and downsweep techniques are valid - teams should choose their preferred method
Proper sportsmanship and team encouragement are as important as technical skill
Practice under competitive pressure helps prepare for real race situations
Good changeover technique often matters more than pure running speed in relay success

Common Misconceptions

Students may think they must use both techniques equally - clarify that teams can specialise in their preferred method
Some may believe the fastest runner should always go last - explain that smooth changeovers matter more than individual speed
Students might assume changeovers should happen at maximum speed - emphasise control and accuracy over speed
Some may think communication is optional - stress that clear signals prevent dropped batons and failed exchanges
Students may focus only on winning - reinforce that skill development and teamwork are the primary goals

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear role definitions, regular position changes, immediate feedback

dyspraxia

Larger equipment, slower pace practice, extra demonstration time, simplified movement patterns

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available during intense activities

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured batons, clear verbal descriptions of hand positions, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards

physical disability

Adapted distances, seated changeover practice, modified batons or alternative objects

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, clear communication skills, descriptive language for technique

Maths

Measuring distances for cone spacing, timing relay races, calculating average speeds

Science

Forces in running, momentum transfer during baton exchange, energy systems during exercise

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing competition, supporting others, building resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between teams during practice, position at corner for track relay visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for smooth changeovers, team communication, and safe running technique

Intervention Points

Step in if changeovers become unsafe, if students show poor sportsmanship, or if technique needs correction

Demonstration Notes

Use student assistants for changeover demonstrations, exaggerate hand positions for visibility, show both techniques multiple times

Verbal Cues

•'Hold the end of the baton!'
•'Communication is key!'
•'Palm up for downsweep!'
•'Start jogging as they approach!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 30m or sports hall, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, adequate grip for running activities

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all batons are in good condition with no sharp edges or cracks
•Ensure cones are stable and visible
•Verify adequate number of batons for group sizes

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during relay running
•Trips and falls on track surface
•Baton strikes during changeover attempts
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear track boundaries and running directions established
•Adequate spacing between teams during practice
•Emphasis on controlled pace rather than maximum speed
•Proper changeover technique to prevent baton drops

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all active areas
•Monitor changeover areas for safe technique
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, ensure other students are safe