Lesson 6 - Relay Baton Transfer
Olympic Technique Mastery
•Year 6
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
One baton per team of 4 students
Alternative: Bean bags, foam tubes, or smooth sticks
Set up relay stations and circuit markers
Alternative: Spots, chalk marks, or rope circles
Used for self-assessment at lesson end
Alternative: Coloured hoops or markers
For timing relay races and monitoring progress
Alternative: Phone timer apps
Key Vocabulary
A smooth cylinder passed between relay team members
The designated area where baton transfers must occur
The moment when the baton is passed from one runner to another
The runner who takes the baton from their teammate
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
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