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Lesson 2 - Overarm Throwing Accuracy

Technical Skills Development

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Year 7

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we use our whole body to create maximum power and accuracy in our overarm throw?

Learning Objectives

Develop accuracy and consistency of overarm throwing technique
Improve technical elements of the pull throw method
Control power and accuracy through proper body mechanics and release timing

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved throwing technique with consistent form
Students will show increased accuracy when throwing at targets at various distances
Students will understand the biomechanics of effective overarm throwing

Equipment & Resources Required

Foam Javelins

1 per 2 students (15)

Distribute around throwing area perimeter for easy collection

Alternative: Tennis balls, soft throwing implements, bean bags

Tennis Balls

1 per student (30)

Store in baskets for quick distribution

Alternative: Soft play balls, cricket balls (advanced groups only)

Cones

20-30 mixed colours

Mark throwing areas and target zones

Alternative: Markers, spot markers, chalk lines

Benches

4-6

Position as targets and barriers in game zone

Alternative: Tables, crash mats as barriers

Game Balls

20 assorted colours

Place on cones and benches for Angry Birds activity

Alternative: Plastic bottles, bean bags, soft toys

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder to release the implement

Pull throw

A throwing method where the elbow leads and pulls the implement through

Release point

The optimal moment to let go of the implement for maximum distance and accuracy

Stance

The body position and foot placement before and during the throw

Approach run

The running steps taken before throwing to build momentum

Transfer

Moving body weight from back leg to front leg during the throw

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of throwing movements
Ability to follow safety instructions around equipment
Experience with target-based activities

Current Skills

Technical overarm throwing with pull-through method
Coordination of approach run with throwing action
Target accuracy and distance control

Next Steps

Advanced javelin technique with crossover steps
Competition-standard throwing form
Understanding of trajectory and release angles

Milestone Indicators

Consistent side-on stance before throwing

Smooth coordination of leg drive and arm action

Accurate targeting at distances of 15-20 metres

Key Teaching Points

Elbow must lead the throwing action - it's the engine that pulls everything through
Side-on stance is non-negotiable - facing forward reduces power and accuracy significantly
The 3-stride approach creates rhythm and momentum - step-step-throw timing is crucial
Weight transfer from back leg to front leg generates the power in throwing
Release timing determines trajectory - too early goes high, too late goes into ground
Consistent technique beats raw power every time for accuracy and distance
Safety awareness must be maintained throughout - never throw without checking clear areas

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Throwing harder will make it go further' - Correction: Technique and timing create distance, not just force
Misconception: 'I can face the target to throw better' - Correction: Side-on position allows proper body mechanics and power generation
Misconception: 'The hand should lead the throw' - Correction: Elbow leads, hand follows - this creates the whip-like action
Misconception: 'More steps in approach run equals more power' - Correction: 3 controlled steps with good timing beats 5 uncontrolled steps
Misconception: 'I need to throw as high as possible for distance' - Correction: Optimal release angle is around 45 degrees for maximum distance

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments with frequent changes, provide clear physical boundaries and movement zones, offer leadership roles to channel energy positively

dyspraxia

Use larger, easier-to-grip implements initially, provide additional practice time for coordination development, break down movements into smaller component parts

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of lesson activities, offer quiet zones during busy periods, use consistent routines and predictable structure throughout lesson

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment and verbal descriptions of throwing technique, provide tactile guidance for stance and arm position, use sound targets or bells for audio feedback

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations with exaggerated movements, written instruction cards for key technique points, visual signals for start/stop commands

physical disability

Provide seated throwing opportunities using adapted technique, lighter implements or beanbags for reduced strength, modify distances and target sizes appropriately

emotional regulation

Offer choice in competitive participation level, provide calm spaces for breaks if needed, emphasise personal progress over comparison with others

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Forces and motion in throwing actions, lever systems in human body, energy transfer from approach run to release, friction and air resistance effects

Design Technology

Understanding of lever principles in throwing action, analysis of equipment design for safety and performance, problem-solving in target game setup

Geography

Direction and compass work during warm-up, mapping throwing areas and target positions, understanding of spatial relationships and distances

Mathematics

Calculating scores in target games, measuring throwing distances, understanding angles and trajectory, data collection and analysis of accuracy rates

PSHE

Building resilience through skill practice, teamwork and cooperation in partner activities, goal-setting and self-improvement, managing competitive pressure

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at angle to observe side-on throwing technique while maintaining view of all throwing areas

Observation Focus

Watch for elbow-led pulling action, correct foot sequence in approach, weight transfer coordination, and safe equipment handling

Intervention Points

Step in immediately if students attempt unsafe throws, poor technique risks injury, or equipment misuse occurs

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate at reduced speed initially, exaggerate key technique points for visibility, use contrasting examples of correct vs incorrect technique

Verbal Cues

•'Elbow leads the way!'
•'Step-step-throw rhythm!'
•'Side-on like hiding the ball!'
•'Pull through with power!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 30m outdoor area or large sports hall, clear of obstacles with 5m safety zones around throwing areas

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris or hazards that could cause slips or falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Use foam javelins only - no metal or hard implements
•Check tennis balls for damage before use
•Ensure all cones are intact with no sharp edges
•Secure benches and chairs to prevent movement

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Implements striking other students
•Collisions during approach runs
•Slips and falls on wet surfaces
•Overexertion during throwing activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing directions established with no crossing paths
•Only throw when area is clear and on command
•Minimum 15m throwing distance with 5m safety buffer
•Progressive skill building to prevent overexertion
•Foam implements only to reduce impact injuries

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all throwing areas
•Monitor high-activity areas during competitive activities
•Ensure only one student throws at a time in each lane
•Check equipment collection is done safely

Emergency Procedures

Immediate stop command if unsafe situation, assess any injuries with appropriate first aid response, clear evacuation route maintained at all times