Lesson 2 - Pull Throw Technique and Accuracy
Olympic Technique Mastery
•Year 6
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use our whole body to create power and accuracy when throwing for distance?
Learning Objectives
- To develop the pull technique for overarm throwing with power and accuracy
- To understand and apply the principles of safe group throwing
- To demonstrate effective teamwork and communication during throwing activities
Key Outcomes
- Students will perform the pull throw with sideways-on body position and coordinated arm action
- Students will throw safely in groups, following established routines and safety protocols
- Students will work cooperatively with partners, providing feedback and encouragement
Equipment & Resources Required
Store safely to one side of throwing area, check for damage before use
Alternative: Tennis balls, bean bags, or foam balls if javelins unavailable
Place 15m from throwing line for warm-up, various distances for targets
Alternative: Bean bags or marker discs
Position at varying distances from throwing line for target practice
Alternative: Low boxes or gym equipment
Create different height targets for accuracy practice
Alternative: Tall cones or posts
Place on benches, chairs, and ground to create scoring targets
Alternative: Bean bags, cones, or plastic cups
For measuring throwing distances and setting up safe zones
Alternative: Pre-marked cones for distance measurement
Key Vocabulary
An overarm throwing technique where the arm is pulled through with elbow leading
Body positioned at 90 degrees to the direction of throw with opposite foot forward
A controlled approach to build momentum before throwing
The optimal moment to let go of the implement for maximum distance or accuracy
The opposite arm used for balance and direction guidance
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic overarm throwing technique
- Understanding of safety in athletics activities
- Experience working in pairs and small groups
Current Skills
- Pull throwing technique with sideways-on position
- Coordinated run-up and throw combination
- Group throwing safety protocols
Next Steps
- Advanced throwing techniques for distance
- Competitive throwing activities
- Analysis and improvement of throwing performance
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Sideways-on body position is fundamental to effective pull throwing
- Elbow must lead the pulling action with palm facing upward
- Non-throwing arm provides balance and directional guidance
- Group safety protocols must be followed consistently throughout
- Run-up should enhance rather than compromise throwing technique
- Release point experimentation helps students understand trajectory control
- Cooperation and communication are essential for safe athletics practice
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking that throwing harder always means throwing further - technique is more important than force
- Believing that square-on position gives more power - sideways-on position is biomechanically superior
- Assuming that longer run-ups always improve throws - controlled approach is more effective
- Missing the importance of the non-throwing arm - it provides crucial balance and direction
- Focusing only on distance rather than accuracy and technique development
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter practice periods, clear movement boundaries, regular position changes, immediate feedback
dyspraxia
- Simplified movement patterns, larger targets, step-by-step technique breakdown, extra practice time
autism spectrum
- Clear routines for equipment collection, visual schedules for lesson progression, quiet zones for breaks
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured targets, verbal descriptions of target positions, tactile markers for throwing line
hearing impairment
- Clear visual signals for throwing and collection, written instruction cards, demonstration-focused teaching
physical disability
- Seated throwing versions, lighter implements, closer target distances, adapted throwing techniques
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring throwing distances, calculating scores, angles of trajectory, timing sequences
Science
Forces and motion in throwing, gravity effects on projectile paths, lever principles in arm action
Geography
Countries and capitals knowledge, mapping throwing distances, direction and compass points
PSHE
Cooperation and teamwork, personal goal-setting, celebrating others' achievements, managing competitive emotions
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position at throwing line corner for maximum visibility of all students and throwing actions
Observation Focus
Watch for sideways-on body position, elbow-led pulling action, and safe group behaviour
Intervention Points
Step in if students show unsafe throwing practices or struggle with group timing
Demonstration Notes
Emphasise contrast between correct and incorrect technique, use slow motion for complex movements
Verbal Cues
- •'Sideways-on like a statue!'
- •'Elbow leads the way!'
- •'Pull through and follow!'
- •'Wait for the signal!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 40m x 30m area with clear throwing zones and safe collection areas
Surface Check
Level, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards in throwing area
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check soft javelins for damage before use
- •Ensure target equipment is securely positioned
- •Verify adequate spacing for safe throwing
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision during approach runs
- •Throwing implements hitting participants
- •Slips during rapid direction changes
- •Equipment falling from target structures
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear signals for group throwing and collection
- •Adequate spacing between throwing positions (3m minimum)
- •Designated areas for left and right-handed throwers
- •Secure positioning of all target equipment
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all throwing areas
- •Monitor adherence to safety signals and procedures
- •Watch for students who may struggle with group timing
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately on safety signal, assess any injuries, provide appropriate first aid and seek additional support if needed