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Lesson 7 - Shot Put Technique

Multi-Discipline Mastery

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Year 6

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our whole body to throw for maximum distance and accuracy?

Learning Objectives

To develop throwing technique with force and accuracy for longer distances
To understand and apply weight transfer principles in shot put throwing
To demonstrate accurate throwing using proper body positioning and follow-through

Key Outcomes

Students will perform shot put technique with correct stance, weight transfer and follow-through
Students will throw accurately at targets 6 metres away using proper technique
Students will measure and analyse their throwing distances to improve performance

Equipment & Resources Required

Light Shot Put

One per group of three students

Alternative: Tennis balls if shot puts unavailable

Cones

Mark throwing lines, target areas and measuring points

Alternative: Markers or chalk lines

Hoops

Place 6 metres from throwing line as targets

Alternative: Chalk circles or rope circles

Tape Measure

For measuring throwing distances accurately

Alternative: Pre-marked cones every metre

Tennis Balls

10 (optional)

Alternative if shot puts not available

Alternative: Bean bags or small medicine balls

Key Vocabulary

Shot Put

A heavy ball thrown using a pushing action from the shoulder rather than an overarm throw

Weight Transfer

Moving your body weight from your back leg to your front leg during the throwing action

Stance

The position of your feet and body before beginning the throw

Follow-through

The continuation of your arm movement after releasing the shot put

Shuffle

A sliding step movement used to build momentum before throwing

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic overarm throwing actions from previous athletics units
Understanding of aiming and target practice from games activities
Experience with measuring distances and recording results

Current Skills

Shot put grip and stance technique
Weight transfer from back to front leg
Hip and shoulder rotation for power generation
Follow-through technique for accuracy and distance

Next Steps

Advanced shot put techniques including glide technique
Competition shot put with heavier implements
Application of throwing principles to other field events

Milestone Indicators

Consistent sideways stance with correct foot positioning

Smooth weight transfer visible during throwing action

Shot put held correctly against neck throughout throw

Clear follow-through in direction of throw

Key Teaching Points

Shot put is pushed from neck/shoulder, never thrown overarm like a ball
Sideways stance with feet shoulder-width apart provides stability and power
Weight transfer from back to front leg is crucial for distance and technique
Hip and shoulder rotation drives the throwing movement effectively
High follow-through in direction of throw improves accuracy and distance
Safety commands must be followed precisely - throw and collect only on command
Coaching others helps develop understanding of technique principles

Common Misconceptions

Shot put can be thrown overarm like other balls - emphasise pushing action from shoulder
Facing forward provides better power - demonstrate why sideways stance is more effective
Only arm strength matters for distance - show importance of whole body coordination
Heavy equipment is too dangerous - explain appropriate weights and safety procedures
Technique doesn't matter if you're strong - demonstrate how technique multiplies natural ability

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, regular movement breaks, clear role definitions in group work

dyspraxia

Break technique into smaller steps, extra practice time, use of lighter equipment initially

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available, consistent routine and commands

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured shot puts, verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance for stance positioning

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear hand signals, written instruction cards, buddy system for safety commands

physical disability

Seated shot put version, lighter implements, modified throwing distances, wheelchair-accessible throwing area

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances using tape measures, comparing measurements, calculating improvements between throws

Science

Forces and motion - how body position affects throwing power, gravity's effect on projectiles

Geography

Understanding direction and angles, measuring distances accurately, spatial awareness

PSHE

Teamwork during group activities, giving constructive feedback, perseverance when learning new skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position at corner of throwing area for visibility of all groups while maintaining safety

Observation Focus

Watch for proper grip, stance alignment, weight transfer and follow-through in sequence

Intervention Points

["Step in if students revert to overarm throwing technique", "Correct immediately if safety procedures not followed", "Provide individual support for students struggling with coordination"]

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate full technique slowly first, then at normal speed. Use exaggerated movements to show key points clearly

Verbal Cues

•'Shot put against neck, elbow high!'
•'Sideways stance, back leg bent!'
•'Weight back to front, turn those hips!'
•'Follow through high and forward!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m area, clear of obstacles for safe throwing and retrieval

Surface Check

Even, dry surface free from holes or trip hazards in throwing area

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Light shot puts appropriate for primary age (600g-1.5kg maximum)
•Check shot puts for cracks or damage before use
•Ensure measuring tapes rewind safely

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Shot puts hitting other students during throwing
•Trips and falls during collection phases
•Muscle strain from incorrect lifting or throwing technique

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing and collection commands from teacher
•Adequate spacing between throwing lanes (minimum 3m)
•Progressive skill building from basic stance to full technique

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Teacher positioned to see all throwing areas simultaneously
•Monitor throwing areas during collection phases
•Ensure students wait for commands before throwing or collecting

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact medical assistance if required