Lesson 4 - Relay Racing and Baton Changes
From Sprint Technique to Distance Strategy: A Complete Running Journey
•Year 6
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we work as a team to run faster than we could individually?
Learning Objectives
- Apply sprinting technique within a team relay format
- Develop effective baton changeover skills and communication
- Understand tactical approaches to relay racing for team success
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate smooth baton changes using proper technique
- Students will apply sprinting form while maintaining lane discipline
- Students will communicate effectively as a team to optimise relay performance
Equipment & Resources Required
Check batons are safe with no sharp edges or cracks
Alternative: Foam tubes, toilet roll tubes, or bean bags for adapted versions
Mark clear lane boundaries and changeover zones
Alternative: Chalk lines, rope, or painted lines on playground
For timing races and individual legs if needed
Alternative: Mobile phone timer apps
Position near the activity area for quick access
Alternative: Basic supplies for cuts and bruises
Key Vocabulary
A race where team members take turns running, passing a baton from one runner to the next
A short stick or tube passed between relay team members during the race
The moment when one runner passes the baton to the next team member
The designated area where baton exchanges must take place in competitive relays
Staying within your designated lane throughout your section of the race
The fourth and final runner in a relay team, often the strongest runner
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic sprinting technique with correct body position
- Understanding of lane discipline in individual running
- Basic coordination and catching skills
Current Skills
- Relay baton handling and changeover technique
- Team communication during high-speed activity
- Tactical awareness for relay racing
Next Steps
- Advanced relay strategies and positioning
- Competitive relay racing in athletics events
- Leadership roles in team athletics activities
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Baton changeovers are the key to relay success - technique matters more than individual speed
- Communication ('Hand!' and 'Go!') must be loud, clear, and perfectly timed
- Receiver should accelerate as passer approaches to maintain team speed
- Lane discipline is crucial - stay in your lane throughout your leg of the race
- Team strategy matters - consider each runner's strengths when deciding running order
- Practice makes perfect - smooth changeovers come from repetition and teamwork
- Competitive pressure tests technique - maintain skills even when racing gets exciting
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking relay racing is just about individual speed - correct by emphasising changeover technique and teamwork
- Believing the receiver should stand still waiting for baton - teach acceleration timing for smooth exchanges
- Assuming any team member can pick up a dropped baton - clarify only the dropper can retrieve it
- Thinking communication isn't important when running fast - demonstrate how vital clear calls are for timing
- Believing the anchor (fourth) runner must be fastest - explain they need to handle pressure well
- Assuming changeover zones don't matter - show how they prevent unfair advantages and require skill
- Thinking grip strength should be very tight on baton - teach relaxed grip for easy passing
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Use shorter race distances, provide frequent positive feedback, allow movement breaks between activities
dyspraxia
- Use larger, easier-grip batons, practice changeovers extensively at walking pace, provide extra time for coordination development
autism spectrum
- Provide clear visual schedule of lesson activities, establish consistent team groupings, offer quiet zone if overwhelmed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured batons and cones, provide clear verbal descriptions of course layout, assign sighted guide runner
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals for race starts, demonstrate all techniques clearly, use written instruction cards for complex rules
physical disability
- Adapt to wheelchair relay racing, use seated changeovers, modify distances for different mobility levels
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following and giving clear instructions, using precise vocabulary for technique description, team communication skills
Science
Forces and motion in running, understanding acceleration and momentum in changeovers, heart rate monitoring
Geography
Understanding compass directions around curved tracks, mapping race courses, distance and scale concepts
PSHE
Teamwork and collaboration skills, handling competitive pressure, celebrating others' achievements, resilience building
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between changeover zones during practices, position at finish line during races for safety oversight
Observation Focus
Watch for smooth baton technique, lane discipline, communication quality, and signs of fatigue
Intervention Points
Step in for unsafe running, poor changeover technique, or team conflict resolution
Demonstration Notes
Use slow-motion demonstrations for technique clarity, emphasise key points through exaggerated movements
Verbal Cues
- •'Palm up ready!'
- •'Stay in your lane!'
- •'Smooth and steady!'
- •'Great communication!'
- •'Control before speed!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 60m x 30m outdoor area, clear of obstacles and with adequate run-off space
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from holes, stones, or slippery areas that could cause falls
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check relay batons for cracks, sharp edges, or splinters before use
- •Ensure cones are weighted and stable in wind
- •Verify stopwatches are working and straps are secure
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between runners during changeovers
- •Falls due to fatigue or loss of coordination
- •Dropped batons causing trips or falls
- •Overexertion in competitive racing situations
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear lane markings with adequate width between lanes
- •Proper warm-up emphasising dynamic preparation
- •Progressive skill building from walking to race pace
- •Clear rules about staying in lanes throughout race
- •Adequate rest between races to prevent fatigue
- •Teacher positioned to observe all changeover points
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position with clear view of all changeover zones
- •Monitor closest races for technique and safety
- •Watch for signs of overexertion or fatigue
- •Ensure immediate access to first aid if needed
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safely supervised