Lesson 2 - Overarm Throwing Accuracy
Technical Skills Development
•Year 7
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Distribute around throwing area perimeter for easy collection
Alternative: Tennis balls, soft throwing implements, bean bags
Store in baskets for quick distribution
Alternative: Soft play balls, cricket balls (advanced groups only)
Mark throwing areas and target zones
Alternative: Markers, spot markers, chalk lines
Position as targets and barriers in game zone
Alternative: Tables, crash mats as barriers
Place on cones and benches for Angry Birds activity
Alternative: Plastic bottles, bean bags, soft toys
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder to release the implement
A throwing method where the elbow leads and pulls the implement through
The optimal moment to let go of the implement for maximum distance and accuracy
The body position and foot placement before and during the throw
The running steps taken before throwing to build momentum
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
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