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Lesson 6 - Relay Baton Transfer

Olympic Technique Mastery

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Year 6

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can efficient baton transfers make the difference between winning and losing in relay races?

Learning Objectives

To transfer a relay baton efficiently as part of a team
To understand optimal positioning for receiving a baton
To demonstrate competitive spirit while challenging oneself to improve

Key Outcomes

Students will execute smooth baton transfers using both hands
Students will position themselves correctly to receive batons
Students will show determination and teamwork in competitive situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Relay Baton

8-10

One baton per team of 4 students

Alternative: Bean bags, foam tubes, or smooth sticks

Dish Cones

Set up relay stations and circuit markers

Alternative: Spots, chalk marks, or rope circles

Coloured Cones

4 (different colours)

Used for self-assessment at lesson end

Alternative: Coloured hoops or markers

Stopwatch

2-3

For timing relay races and monitoring progress

Alternative: Phone timer apps

Key Vocabulary

Baton

A smooth cylinder passed between relay team members

Exchange zone

The designated area where baton transfers must occur

Changeover

The moment when the baton is passed from one runner to another

Receiver

The runner who takes the baton from their teammate

Acceleration

Gradually increasing speed from a standing start

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running technique and pacing
Understanding of teamwork and cooperation
Experience with simple object passing activities

Current Skills

Efficient baton transfer technique
Optimal positioning for baton exchange
Competitive relay racing

Next Steps

Advanced relay techniques and zone awareness
Sprint starts and acceleration patterns
Race tactics and team strategy

Milestone Indicators

Smooth hand-to-hand baton transfers

Maintaining speed during exchanges

Effective communication with teammates

Key Teaching Points

Right hand passes to left hand, left hand passes to right hand for efficient transfers
Receiver should be moving when baton transfer occurs, not stationary
Eyes should look forward during baton exchange, not down at the baton
Clear verbal communication with 'Hand!' call from receiver
Strategic thinking about runner order based on individual strengths
Dip finish technique to break the line properly
Team cooperation and support throughout competitive activities

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking they should use the same hand throughout - correct by emphasising alternating pattern
Believing they should stop to receive the baton - emphasise movement during transfer
Thinking the fastest runner should always go first - discuss strategic placement
Assuming relay is just about individual speed - highlight teamwork importance
Believing they need to look at the baton during transfer - practise trust and forward vision

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter relay distances, frequent position changes, clear boundaries marked, regular positive feedback

dyspraxia

Larger, easier-to-grip batons, reduced running speed, extra practice time, simplified hand position instructions

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available during competitive elements, consistent routines and signals

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured batons with bells inside, verbal descriptions of circuit layout, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual start signals using flags or lights, written instruction cards, demonstrate all techniques clearly

physical disability

Seated relay version using shorter distances, modified batons or bean bags, wheelchair-accessible routes

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances between cones, timing races, calculating average speeds, understanding fractions in team positions

Science

Forces and motion in running, momentum during baton transfer, physics of acceleration and deceleration

Geography

Mapping relay routes, understanding cardinal directions, spatial awareness and positioning

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, handling competition pressure, celebrating others' achievements, goal setting

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Circulate between relay stations during practice, central position for demonstrations and competitive races

Observation Focus

Watch for smooth baton transfers, proper hand positioning, team cooperation, and competitive spirit

Intervention Points

Step in if technique is unsafe, if students are struggling with coordination, or if competitive behaviour becomes inappropriate

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion technique demonstrations, show both correct and incorrect methods for comparison, involve confident students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Hand!' for baton request
•'Smooth and fast!' during transfers
•'Eyes forward!' during exchanges
•'Run through!' at changeover points

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 30m or sports hall with adequate ceiling height

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, stones, or other hazards that could cause trips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check batons for cracks or sharp edges
•Ensure cones are stable and visible
•Verify all equipment is age-appropriate size

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between runners
•Trips from dropped batons
•Overexertion during competitive races

Risk Mitigation

•Clear running lanes with adequate spacing
•Emphasis on controlled baton grip
•Progressive intensity build-up
•Clear start and stop signals

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all relay stations
•Monitor high-activity areas during competitive races
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, contact emergency services if required