Lesson 5 - Triple Jump Technique and Control
Multi-Discipline Mastery
•Year 6
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we combine three different jumps to achieve maximum distance while maintaining perfect control and technique?
Learning Objectives
- To develop power, control and technique for the triple jump
- To understand and apply the hop, step, jump sequence with correct timing
- To analyse and improve performance through peer feedback and measurement
Key Outcomes
- Students will perform a controlled triple jump sequence showing clear hop, step, jump phases
- Students will demonstrate improved distance through proper technique and run-up
- Students will provide constructive feedback to partners on technique and performance
Equipment & Resources Required
Use for marking distances, take-off lines, and foot placement guides
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or painted lines
For measuring jump distances and setting up consistent distances
Alternative: Trundle wheels, marked measuring ropes
One colour for hop foot, another for step foot, third for landing
Alternative: Different coloured cones or markers
Key Vocabulary
An athletics field event consisting of three consecutive jumps: hop, step, and jump
First phase where you take off and land on the same foot
Second phase where you take off on one foot and land on the opposite foot
Final phase where you take off on one foot and land on both feet
The line from which the triple jump sequence must begin
The foot you prefer to use for jumping and taking off
The approach sprint before beginning the triple jump sequence
The force that keeps you moving forward through all three jumps
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic jumping and landing techniques from previous athletics lessons
- Understanding of take-off and landing safety
- Experience with single jumps for distance
- Ability to follow multi-step movement sequences
Current Skills
- Hop, step, jump sequence execution
- Coordination of three consecutive jumps
- Run-up timing and distance measurement
- Peer observation and feedback skills
Next Steps
- Advanced triple jump with longer run-ups
- Competition-style triple jump with official measurements
- Analysis of Olympic triple jump techniques
- Integration with other field events
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Hop phase: same foot take-off and landing with strong knee drive
- Step phase: land on opposite foot reaching for maximum distance
- Jump phase: two-footed landing with forward drive and arm coordination
- Maintain smooth, consistent rhythm throughout entire sequence
- Use run-up to build momentum and power for greater distances
- Partner feedback is crucial for technique improvement
- Safety through controlled landings and awareness of others
Common Misconceptions
- That all three phases should cover equal distance - step phase usually covers most ground
- That maximum speed in run-up always equals best performance - control is more important
- That the final jump is most important - the hop sets up the entire sequence
- That you can pause between phases - momentum must be maintained throughout
- That bigger students always jump further - technique and coordination are more important than size
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter practice bursts, clear boundaries marked, regular positive feedback and refocusing
dyspraxia
- Extra time for coordination development, simplified sequence initially, additional visual and verbal cues
autism spectrum
- Clear routine and structure, visual sequence cards, quiet area available if overwhelmed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured cones for markers, verbal descriptions of demonstrations, tactile guidance for foot placement
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for commands
physical disability
- Modified jumping from seated position, adapted distances, focus on arm movements for momentum
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances accurately, comparing measurements, calculating improvements, understanding averages
Science
Forces and motion, momentum and energy transfer, body mechanics and physics of jumping
Geography
Understanding distance and measurement, spatial awareness and direction
PSHE
Perseverance and resilience, supporting others, celebrating improvement over absolute achievement
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between pairs during practice, position at side of run-up lanes for safety and observation
Observation Focus
Watch for correct foot patterns, smooth rhythm, safe landing technique, and effective partner feedback
Intervention Points
Step in if students showing poor technique, unsafe landings, or not understanding the sequence
Demonstration Notes
Use slow, exaggerated movements for teaching phases, normal speed for rhythm, emphasise key technical points clearly
Verbal Cues
- •'Same foot, other foot, both feet!'
- •'Smooth rhythm, don't stop!'
- •'Drive those knees up!'
- •'Reach for distance in your step!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 40m x 20m outdoor space or large sports hall with adequate run-up and landing areas
Surface Check
Level, non-slip surface free from holes, stones or debris that could cause injury during jumping
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Cones placed safely away from landing areas
- •Tape measures wound up when not in use
- •Base stations secured and flat to surface
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision between students during run-ups
- •Poor landing technique leading to ankle or knee injury
- •Trips or falls during warm-up swipe game
- •Overexertion during jumping activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear run-up lanes marked and supervised
- •Progressive skill development from static to moving
- •Emphasis on controlled landings with bent knees
- •Adequate rest periods between attempts
- •Partner system for support and spotting
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all run-up lanes
- •Monitor landing areas for safe technique
- •Ensure students only jump on command
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, clear area if needed