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Lesson 6 - Throwing for Distance

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 generate maximum power and control when throwing for distance?

Learning Objectives

To develop power, control and technique when throwing for distance
To understand weight transfer principles in throwing events
To measure and evaluate throwing performance accurately

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved throwing technique with weight transfer
Students will achieve greater throwing distances through technical improvements
Students will accurately measure and record throwing performances

Equipment & Resources Required

Discus

Check for damage, ensure appropriate weight for age group

Alternative: Foam discus, quoits for beginners

Quoits

Use for initial accuracy practice before progressing to discus

Alternative: Rubber rings, flying discs

Tape Measure

Ensure retractable and clearly marked in metres

Alternative: Trundle wheels, marked measuring ropes

Hoops

Large hoops (1m diameter) for target practice

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles

Cones

Mark throwing lines and safety boundaries

Alternative: Markers, boundary posts

Key Vocabulary

Weight transfer

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

Follow through

Continuing arm and finger movement after release in direction of throw

Trunk rotation

Twisting motion of torso to generate power in throwing

Release point

The moment when the implement leaves the thrower's hand

Discus grip

Specific hand position for holding discus with loose grip on finger pads

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic overarm throwing action
Understanding of force and power in movement
Experience with measuring and recording results

Current Skills

Weight transfer in throwing
Discus grip and release technique
Power generation through trunk rotation

Next Steps

Advanced throwing techniques including javelin
Competition throwing with official rules
Analysis of throwing performance using video

Milestone Indicators

Consistent weight transfer visible in throwing action

Discus released at optimal angle for distance

Throws consistently exceeding personal best distances

Key Teaching Points

Weight transfer from back to front leg is essential for power generation
Discus grip should be loose with implement sitting flat on palm
Index finger is last to touch discus during release
Trunk rotation adds significant power to the throw
Safety protocols must be followed strictly in all throwing events
Measurement is taken from start line to first landing point
Coaching feedback should be specific and constructive

Common Misconceptions

Power comes only from arm strength - actually involves whole body coordination
Tighter grip gives better control - loose grip allows better release
Throwing harder always means throwing further - technique is more important
Measurement point is where implement stops - it's where it first lands
Safety is only teacher's responsibility - all participants must be safety-conscious

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent role changes, clear boundaries, regular movement breaks

dyspraxia

Break technique into smaller steps, use lighter implements, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual sequence cards, designated safe spaces

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured discus, verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance for grip

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, visual safety signals

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, lighter implements, adapted measuring techniques

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances in metres, calculating averages and improvements, recording data accurately

Science

Forces and motion, projectile trajectories, biomechanics of power generation

Geography

Understanding distance and measurement units, mapping throwing areas

PSHE

Personal responsibility for safety, supporting others, resilience through practice

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand where all throwing areas are visible, behind the throwing line for safety

Observation Focus

Watch for weight transfer, trunk rotation, and safe collection procedures

Intervention Points

["Stop activity if safety protocols are ignored", "Provide individual technique coaching during practice", "Address measurement inaccuracies immediately"]

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate all techniques slowly and clearly, emphasising key body positions and movements

Verbal Cues

•'Sideways stance!'
•'Weight back to front!'
•'Twist and release!'
•'Index finger last!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 20m clear throwing area with additional 10m safety zone

Surface Check

Level grass or athletics field free from holes, stones, or obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check discuses for cracks or damage before use
•Ensure measuring tapes retract properly
•Verify hoops are stable and unbroken

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Implements striking students during throwing or collection
•Collisions during throwing activities
•Muscle strain from incorrect technique

Risk Mitigation

•Strict throwing and collection commands
•Officials positioned safely to side of throwing area
•Progressive warm-up and technique development
•Clear throwing direction and safety boundaries

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all throwing areas simultaneously
•Maintain control of throwing and collection phases
•Monitor technique to prevent injury

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, apply first aid if qualified, seek additional help if needed