Lesson 7 - Shot Put Technique
Multi-Discipline Mastery
•Year 6
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
One per group of three students
Alternative: Tennis balls if shot puts unavailable
Mark throwing lines, target areas and measuring points
Alternative: Markers or chalk lines
Place 6 metres from throwing line as targets
Alternative: Chalk circles or rope circles
For measuring throwing distances accurately
Alternative: Pre-marked cones every metre
Alternative if shot puts not available
Alternative: Bean bags or small medicine balls
Key Vocabulary
A heavy ball thrown using a pushing action from the shoulder rather than an overarm throw
Moving your body weight from your back leg to your front leg during the throwing action
The position of your feet and body before beginning the throw
The continuation of your arm movement after releasing the shot put
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
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