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Big Question

How can we combine three different jumps to achieve maximum distance?

Learning Objectives

  • To develop the technical skills required for standing triple jump
  • To understand the biomechanics of hop, skip and jump sequence
  • To apply correct technique to achieve maximum distance

Key Outcomes

  • Students will perform a fluent standing triple jump sequence
  • Students will understand the importance of technique in athletic performance
  • Students will evaluate and improve their jumping performance

Equipment & Resources Required

Measuring Tapes
6-8

Available for groups to measure distances

Alternative: Metre sticks, trundle wheels

Cones
1

For marking distances and creating jump stations

Alternative: Bean bags, markers

Sand Pit
1-2 areas

Clear, level surface for safe landing

Alternative: Gym mats, grass area

Score Sheets
1 per pair

For tracking distances and attempts

Alternative: Whiteboard and pens

Key Vocabulary

Triple Jump

A sequence of three jumps: hop, skip (step) and jump

Hop

Jumping from one foot and landing on the same foot

Skip (Step)

Jumping from one foot and landing on the opposite foot

Take-off

The moment when the foot leaves the ground to begin a jump

Flight Phase

The time spent in the air during each jump

Landing

The moment when feet make contact with the ground

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Standing long jump technique from previous lessons
  • Basic hopping and skipping movements
  • Understanding of take-off and landing principles

Current Skills

  • Combining hop, skip and jump in sequence
  • Coordinating arm swing with leg movements
  • Selecting appropriate take-off foot

Next Steps

  • Triple jump with approach run
  • Advanced jumping combinations
  • Competition preparation and tactics

Milestone Indicators

1
Smooth transition between jump phases
2
Consistent landing technique
3
Understanding of optimal technique

Key Teaching Points

  • The triple jump sequence is HOP (same foot), SKIP (change feet), JUMP (land on both)
  • Rhythm and flow are more important than individual jump height
  • Arms must swing forward to generate momentum and maintain balance
  • Knees should be bent for take-off power and safe landing
  • Focus on technique before attempting maximum distance
  • Each phase serves a purpose - hop for distance, skip for transition, jump for final distance
  • Athletes choose their stronger leg to begin the sequence

Common Misconceptions

  • Thinking triple jump is just three long jumps - actually requires specific hop, skip, jump sequence
  • Believing jumping higher gives more distance - forward momentum is more important
  • Assuming arms don't matter - arm swing is crucial for balance and power
  • Thinking all three phases should be equal distance - the final jump should be the longest
  • Believing anyone can start with either foot - athletes have a preferred take-off leg

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Clear boundaries marked, frequent positive feedback, allow for movement breaks
dyspraxia
  • Break down sequence into smaller steps, extra practice time, use of visual cues and verbal prompts
autism spectrum
  • Clear routine and structure, visual sequence cards, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
  • Use bright coloured cones for markers, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
  • Use visual demonstrations, clear hand signals for sequence, written instruction cards
physical disability
  • Adapt to seated throwing for distance, use upper body coordination patterns, modified measurement activities

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances, calculating ratios and percentages, comparing data, problem-solving with measurements

Science

Forces and motion, gravity and resistance, muscle function and body mechanics, energy transfer

Geography

Measurement and scale, international sporting achievements, world records from different countries

PSHE

Goal-setting and perseverance, supporting others, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating achievements

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups to observe technique, position to see all students during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct foot sequence, arm coordination, balance on landing, and overall fluency

Intervention Points

Step in when students struggle with foot sequence, lose balance repeatedly, or show signs of frustration

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate the complete sequence slowly first, then at normal speed. Emphasise the rhythm and flow between phases

Verbal Cues
  • 'HOP-SKIP-JUMP!'
  • 'Swing those arms!'
  • 'Bend your knees for landing!'
  • 'Feel the rhythm!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area or large indoor space

Surface Check

Level, non-slip surface free from holes or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Cones have no sharp edges
  • Measuring equipment stored safely when not in use
  • Landing areas clear of obstacles

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Ankle or knee injury from poor landing
  • Falls due to loss of balance
  • Collisions between students
  • Fatigue-related injuries
Risk Mitigation
  • Thorough warm-up focusing on leg muscles
  • Progressive skill development
  • Clear boundaries and safe distances between students
  • Regular technique reminders to prevent injury
  • Monitor for signs of fatigue

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position to observe all jumping areas
  • Watch for correct landing technique
  • Intervene if students show signs of fatigue or poor technique
Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid or seek medical attention