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Lesson 5 - Multi-Event Athletics Challenge

Technique Mastery & Biomechanics

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Year 8

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can you apply mastered athletics techniques to achieve personal excellence across multiple disciplines?

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate competency across multiple athletics disciplines using refined techniques
Apply previously learned skills in competitive situations with consistency
Evaluate personal performance and set targets for improvement

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully complete all athletics stations with measurable performance data
Students will demonstrate technique retention from previous lessons across track and field events
Students will achieve personal improvement in at least 60% of attempted disciplines

Equipment & Resources Required

PE Equipment

2 posts, elastic crossbar, 2 crash mats

Ensure pit is raked and level, board positioned correctly

Alternative: Chalk lines for indoor jumping, gym mats for landing

Sun Markers

20 bright coloured cones

Mark hop, step, jump phases clearly

Alternative: Chalk marks on tarmac surface

Javelins

4-6 foam javelins or training javelins

Ensure throwing area is clear and marked

Alternative: Tennis balls with streamers, pool noodles

Shot Put

5 age-appropriate weights (3kg for Year 8)

Mark throwing circle and landing sector

Alternative: Tennis balls for Wimbledon throw technique

Stopwatch

8-10 digital stopwatches

Check battery levels and synchronise if needed

Alternative: Smartphone timer apps, manual countdown

Score Sheets

1 per student + spares

Include student names and previous best performances

Alternative: Digital recording on tablets/phones

Dish Cones

6 red, 6 yellow, 6 green cones

Distribute evenly around warm-up space

Alternative: Coloured bibs or markers

Key Vocabulary

Personal Best

Your best recorded performance in a specific athletics event

Track Events

Athletics competitions that take place on the running track, focusing on speed and endurance

Field Events

Athletics competitions involving jumping or throwing, measured by distance or height

Technique Retention

Maintaining correct form and method when performing skills under pressure

Multi-Event

Competing in several different athletics disciplines in one session

Performance Analysis

Studying results to identify strengths and areas for improvement

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running, jumping and throwing techniques
Understanding of athletics event rules and safety
Experience with measuring and recording performances
Knowledge of personal best concept

Current Skills

Applying techniques consistently across multiple events
Competing against personal performances
Peer coaching and performance analysis
Strategic approach to improvement

Next Steps

Specialisation in preferred athletics disciplines
Advanced technique refinement
Competition strategy and mental preparation
Leadership roles in athletics training

Milestone Indicators

Maintains technique quality under time pressure

Shows measurable improvement across multiple events

Demonstrates understanding of performance factors

Takes responsibility for own and others' development

Key Teaching Points

Technique maintenance under fatigue is more important than maximum effort
Personal improvement is the primary measure of success in athletics
Safety protocols must never be compromised for competitive advantage
Peer coaching develops both technical understanding and communication skills
Recording accurate data enables meaningful performance analysis and goal setting
Multi-event athletics develops well-rounded physical competency
Resilience and determination are as important as natural ability in athletics success

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Harder effort always produces better results' - Correction: 'Better technique with controlled effort produces consistent improvement'
Misconception: 'Some people are just naturally good at athletics' - Correction: 'Everyone can improve with proper technique and practice'
Misconception: 'Comparing results with others shows who's best' - Correction: 'Personal improvement is the true measure of athletics success'
Misconception: 'You need expensive equipment to excel in athletics' - Correction: 'Good technique and consistent practice are more important than equipment'
Misconception: 'Athletics is just about being fast or strong' - Correction: 'Athletics requires technique, tactics, mental strength and teamwork skills'

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter station times, clear movement boundaries, immediate feedback systems, leadership roles for engagement

dyspraxia

Larger equipment options, simplified technique breakdowns, additional practice time, step-by-step visual guides

autism spectrum

Clear station rotation schedule, visual timetable, quiet recovery space available, consistent routine structure

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, verbal distance calls, tactile markers for take-off boards, buddy support system

hearing impairment

Visual demonstration emphasis, written instruction cards, hand signal system for safety, vibrating timers

physical disability

Adapted implements (lighter weights), wheelchair racing events, seated throwing variations, modified distances

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Understanding projectile motion in throwing events, forces and momentum in jumping, energy systems during multi-event challenges

Geography

Understanding wind direction effects on performance, using measuring equipment accurately, spatial awareness in field events

ICT

Digital recording of performances, video analysis possibilities, online athletics databases and records research

Mathematics

Recording and analysing performance data, calculating improvements, measuring distances and times, statistical comparisons

PSHE

Goal setting and achievement, resilience when performances disappoint, supporting others' development and celebrating success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location with visibility of all seven stations, rotating to provide targeted support

Observation Focus

Technique retention under fatigue, safety protocol adherence, peer support quality

Intervention Points

Step in when technique deteriorates significantly, safety protocols ignored, or students show distress

Demonstration Notes

Use high-performing students to demonstrate good technique, model positive coaching language, show data analysis for improvement

Verbal Cues

•'Technique first, then power!'
•'Safety check before every throw!'
•'Help your partner improve!'
•'Celebrate every improvement!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Full athletics track and field facilities or large outdoor space minimum 60m x 40m with varied surfaces

Surface Check

Ensure jumping pits are well-maintained, throwing areas clear, running surfaces even and dry

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all measuring equipment is calibrated and functioning
•Verify javelin and shot put implements are age-appropriate weight
•Ensure landing mats are properly positioned and secure
•Confirm stopwatches have working batteries

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Projectile injuries from throwing events
•Landing injuries in jumping events
•Collision injuries during transitions
•Overexertion in multiple high-intensity events
•Equipment-related injuries from improper use

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing protocols with safety commands established
•Supervised equipment use with demonstrated techniques
•Adequate rest periods built into circuit rotation
•Progressive skill building from technique to competition
•Proper landing area preparation and maintenance

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all throwing events simultaneously
•Maintain proximity to high-risk activities (throwing, high jump)
•Monitor student fatigue levels throughout multi-event session
•Ensure first aid kit easily accessible

Emergency Procedures

Immediate stop signal for all activities, assessment of injury severity, appropriate first aid response, evacuation plan for serious injuries