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Lesson 1 - Throwing for Accuracy vs 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 do different throwing techniques help us succeed in different sports and athletic events?

Learning Objectives

To understand the difference between throwing for accuracy and throwing for distance
To demonstrate correct throwing technique for both accuracy and distance
To apply appropriate release timing and body positioning when throwing

Key Outcomes

Students will execute accurate underarm throws with correct timing
Students will throw for distance using correct overarm technique
Students will understand when to apply different throwing techniques in sport

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls

1 per student (30)

Stored in equipment bag for easy collection

Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls

Hoops

9 (3 sets of 3)

Set vertically 3 metres apart for accuracy stations

Alternative: Cones, targets, buckets

Sun Markers

Placed at 5m intervals up to 25m for distance throwing

Alternative: Bibs, chalk lines

Measuring Tapes

For setting up accurate distances

Alternative: Trundle wheel, marked ground

Markers

Clear throwing lines for safety

Alternative: Rope, chalk lines

Key Vocabulary

Accuracy

The ability to hit a specific target consistently

Distance

How far an object travels when thrown

Release Point

The exact moment when you let go of the throwing object

Stance

Body position when preparing to throw

Follow Through

Continuing arm movement after releasing the object

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic underarm throwing from Years 3-5
Understanding of target games
Awareness of athletic events

Current Skills

Accurate underarm throwing with correct stance
Overarm throwing for distance with proper technique
Understanding release timing and body positioning

Next Steps

Javelin throwing technique
Shot put fundamentals
Advanced athletic throwing events

Milestone Indicators

Consistent target hitting from 5+ metres

Throwing bean bags beyond 15-metre marker

Demonstrating correct sideways stance independently

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise the difference between accuracy and distance throwing techniques
Ensure safety through clear commands and organised collection procedures
Focus on correct stance and release timing rather than maximum power
Encourage peer observation and positive feedback throughout
Connect throwing techniques to real sports and athletic events
Celebrate improvement and effort over absolute performance
Maintain technique quality even during competitive activities

Common Misconceptions

Thinking more power always equals better throwing - correct with technique focus
Believing accuracy and distance use the same technique - demonstrate clear differences
Assuming early or late release doesn't matter - show trajectory effects
Thinking facing forward is better than sideways stance - demonstrate power generation
Believing only arm muscles are used in throwing - show whole body involvement

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity rotations, clear boundaries, frequent positive feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Simplified throwing technique breakdown, extra practice time, larger equipment for easier handling

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured bean bags, audio cues for targets, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

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

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, adapted distances, modified equipment like larger targets

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances, calculating scores, recording data in competitions

Science

Forces and motion in throwing, trajectory physics, muscle groups in action

Geography

Understanding distances and measurements, spatial awareness in throwing

PSHE

Fair play in competition, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position with view of all throwing areas, move between groups during activities

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique, safety compliance, and individual progress

Intervention Points

Step in if technique becomes unsafe, if students not following commands, or if someone is struggling

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate throwing away from students, use exaggerated movements for clarity, repeat demonstrations as needed

Verbal Cues

•'Sideways stance!'
•'Elbow up high!'
•'Smooth release!'
•'Follow through to target!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 30m x 20m, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Level grass or sports hall surface, free from holes or hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Bean bags checked for tears or loose filling
•Hoops stable and properly positioned
•Cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Bean bags striking other students
•Collisions during equipment collection
•Overexertion during distance throwing

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing commands and collection procedures
•Designated throwing zones with safety boundaries
•Organised rotation system preventing crowding
•Emphasis on technique over maximum power

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all throwing areas
•Monitor compliance with safety commands
•Watch for fatigue or overexertion signs

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if safety concerns, provide first aid if needed, report any injuries