Technical Skills Development
•Year 7
•Athletics
•Check for smooth edges, appropriate weight and grip
Alternative: Cardboard tubes, dowel rods (30cm length), foam tubes
Use contrasting colours for clear zone marking
Alternative: Markers, witches hats, sports markers
Alternative to batons for initial practice and safety
Alternative: Small soft balls, juggling scarves, tennis balls
For timing team challenges and individual improvement
Alternative: Mobile phone timers, digital watches
Mark running lanes and changeover zones clearly
Alternative: Painted lines, chalk, rope
A race where team members take turns running sections of the total distance
The moment when the baton is passed from one runner to the next
The designated area where baton exchanges must take place in official relay races
The cylinder-shaped object passed between team members in relay races
Smooth, coordinated movement without hesitation or interruption
Achieving maximum speed with minimum energy waste and time loss
A relay format where teams start simultaneously and chase each other around a circuit
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Technical vocabulary development, communication skills during team strategy discussions, descriptive writing about relay experiences
Forces in running and acceleration, momentum transfer during baton exchanges, energy systems during different relay distances
Understanding track layouts and navigation, spatial awareness for team positioning, map reading skills for orienteering relays
Measuring changeover zone distances, timing improvements, calculating team speeds and comparing performance data
Teamwork and collaboration skills, leadership development, resilience and perseverance, fair play and sportsmanship values
Central location with clear sightlines to all relay stations and competitive activities
Watch for correct changeover timing, safe baton handling, appropriate communication, and inclusive team behaviour
Step in if unsafe technique observed, poor team dynamics, or students struggling with coordination
Exaggerate hand positions for visibility, demonstrate at walking pace first, show both correct and incorrect techniques for comparison
Minimum 40m x 30m clear space, outdoor track or large sports hall
Even, non-slip surface free from obstacles, puddles, or trip hazards
Immediate stop signal, assess injury severity, appropriate first aid response, alternative activity for remaining students
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