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Lesson 2 - Javelin Throwing for Distance

Advanced Athletic Power and Precision Development

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Year 6

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we use our whole body to throw the javelin as far as possible while maintaining safety and accuracy?

Learning Objectives

Develop understanding of throwing for distance using javelin technique
Learn to use body rotation and weight transfer to increase throwing power
Apply correct javelin grip, stance and release timing for maximum distance

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate the three phases of javelin throwing: stance/grip, rotation, and weight transfer
Students will understand how body mechanics affect throwing distance
Students will evaluate their own and peers' throwing technique for improvement

Equipment & Resources Required

Javelins

1 per student (30)

Distributed around throwing area perimeter, check for damage before use

Alternative: Pool noodles, foam rockets, or lightweight throwing sticks

Dish Cones

12-15 cones

Place at 5m intervals from 10m to 40m to mark distances

Alternative: Spot markers, chalk lines on grass

Measuring Tapes

2 x 50m tapes

For accurate distance measurement and lane setup

Alternative: Metre rulers, pre-marked pitch

Clipboards

15 sets (pairs)

Weatherproof sheets for outdoor recording

Alternative: Tablet devices, mental recording

Key Vocabulary

Javelin

A light throwing spear used in athletics competitions

Extension

Fully stretching the throwing arm away from the body at release

Rotation

Turning the hips and shoulders to generate power in the throw

Weight transfer

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

Release point

The exact moment when you let go of the javelin for optimal distance

Stance

The way you position your feet and body before throwing

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic overarm throwing technique from Unit 1
Understanding of throwing for accuracy vs distance
Experience with different throwing implements

Current Skills

Javelin grip and stance
Body rotation for power generation
Weight transfer mechanics
Release timing and extension

Next Steps

Advanced javelin technique with run-up approach
Competition tactics and strategy
Other throwing events (shot put, discus)

Milestone Indicators

Consistent javelin flight pattern without wobbling

Clear demonstration of weight transfer

Ability to coach others effectively

Key Teaching Points

Safety is paramount - javelins never point at people
Technique before power - distance comes from good form
Three phases must be coordinated: stance/grip, rotation, weight transfer
Hip rotation generates power, arm follows through
Extension at release maximises distance and accuracy
Practice phases separately before combining
Peer feedback develops observation and communication skills

Common Misconceptions

Throwing harder always means throwing further - emphasise technique over force
Only the arm matters in throwing - highlight whole body involvement
Weight transfer is optional - show how it multiplies power
Rotation is just turning - explain hip-driven power generation
Grip doesn't matter - demonstrate how finger grip affects control

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter practice bursts, clear boundaries, regular movement, specific roles and responsibilities

dyspraxia

Extra time for technique practice, simplified movement patterns, additional support for coordination

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual technique cards, quiet zones for breaks, predictable lesson format

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured javelins, clear verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance for grip and stance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with exaggerated movements, written technique cards, clear visual signals

physical disability

Seated throwing version, lighter equipment, shorter distances, adapted grip if needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances accurately, comparing measurements, angles of release, data recording and analysis

Science

Forces and motion, leverage and rotation, energy transfer through body segments, biomechanics

Geography

Understanding direction and distance, spatial awareness, using measuring tools accurately

PSHE

Setting realistic goals, resilience when facing challenges, supporting others, celebrating improvement

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand to side of throwing area with clear view of all lanes, never in front of throwers

Observation Focus

Watch for safety compliance, technique development through phases, and peer interaction quality

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for safety issues, provide technique corrections during practice, support struggling students

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate with safety paramount, use slow motion for complex movements, emphasise key technique points visually

Verbal Cues

•'Javelin points away from people!'
•'Feel the rotation from your hips!'
•'Extend high and forward!'
•'Weight starts on back foot!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 30m with clear run-off space beyond throwing area

Surface Check

Level grass or all-weather surface free from holes, debris and standing water

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check foam javelins for damage, cracks or sharp edges before use
•Ensure adequate number of distance markers and boundary cones
•Verify measuring equipment is accurate and safe to use

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Javelin strikes from throwing in wrong direction
•Collisions in throwing area
•Trips and falls over equipment
•Muscle strains from inadequate warm-up

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing lanes established with cones
•All throwing in same direction only
•No entry to throwing area during activity
•Comprehensive warm-up targeting throwing muscles
•Constant supervision and safety reminders

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all throwing lanes simultaneously
•Monitor equipment handling continuously
•Enforce throwing direction discipline
•Watch for students entering throwing area

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, apply first aid as appropriate, call for additional help if needed