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Lesson 2 - Overarm Throwing Accuracy

Technique Mastery & Biomechanics

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Year 8

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we master the pull throw technique to achieve maximum distance and pinpoint accuracy?

Learning Objectives

Develop accuracy and consistency of overarm throw using proper technique
Improve the technical components of the javelin pull throw
Control power and accuracy through understanding of release point and body mechanics

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved overarm throwing technique with correct stance and arm action
Students will achieve greater consistency in hitting targets at various distances
Students will understand the biomechanics of effective throwing and can coach others

Equipment & Resources Required

Foam Javelins

1 per 2 students (15)

Check for damage before use, ensure foam tips intact

Alternative: Foam pool noodles, tennis balls in socks

Tennis Balls

2 per student (60)

Good condition balls for consistent flight

Alternative: Bean bags, foam balls

Cones

20-30

Mark throwing lines and target areas clearly

Alternative: Markers, spots

Benches

4-6

Stable placement for Angry Birds targets

Alternative: Plastic chairs, boxes

Coloured Balls

20-30

Different colours for scoring system

Alternative: Bean bags, soft toys

Measuring Tapes

For measuring distances and recording achievements

Alternative: Trundle wheel, marked ground

Key Vocabulary

Pull throw

A throwing technique where the elbow leads the action and pulls the implement through

Release point

The exact moment and position when the implement leaves the hand

Weight transfer

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

Side-on stance

Body position with non-throwing side facing the target direction

Elbow leading

The throwing action where the elbow moves forward before the hand and implement

Three-stride approach

A running approach using exactly three steps before the throw

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing patterns from primary school
Understanding of stance and balance
Experience with target games and accuracy challenges

Current Skills

Javelin pull throw technique with elbow leading
Three-stride approach with weight transfer
Accuracy and power control through release timing

Next Steps

Advanced javelin technique with crossover steps
Competitive throwing with measurement and recording
Field event competition rules and regulations

Milestone Indicators

Consistent elbow-high position throughout throw

Smooth weight transfer from back to front foot

Accurate hitting of targets 70% of attempts

Ability to explain technique to peers

Key Teaching Points

Side-on stance is fundamental to all throwing power and accuracy
Elbow leading the throw creates the whip-like action for distance
Three-step approach must be controlled, not rushed
Release point determines direction - early goes left, late goes right
Weight transfer from back to front foot generates power
Practice makes permanent - emphasise technique over distance
Target practice develops accuracy and tactical thinking

Common Misconceptions

Students think throwing harder automatically means throwing further - emphasise technique over force
Many believe facing the target is best - reinforce side-on stance benefits
Students often rush the approach - stress controlled, rhythmic steps
Students may think the hand leads the throw - consistently teach elbow-first action
Some believe all targets should be attempted - teach strategic selection based on ability

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, frequent position changes, clear boundaries

dyspraxia

Simplified step sequence, larger implements, extra practice time, one-to-one support

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedules, quiet practice area available

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured implements, audio cues for target locations, partner guidance for stance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of technique, written instruction cards, hand signals for coaching

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, modified implements, adapted target distances

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Forces and motion in throwing, lever systems in arm action, energy transfer from approach to implement

Geography

Understanding direction and compass points, spatial awareness and positioning

Mathematics

Measuring throwing distances, calculating scores, understanding angles of release and trajectory

PSHE

Goal setting and self-improvement, resilience when facing challenges, supporting others' learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at 45-degree angle to throwing lanes for maximum visibility, move frequently to check technique

Observation Focus

Watch for consistent side-on stance, elbow-leading action, and safe implement handling

Intervention Points

Step in immediately if technique becomes unsafe or students struggle with basic coordination

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate from side view for technique, use slow motion for complex movements, emphasise key points through exaggeration

Verbal Cues

•'Side-on stance, like a fence post!'
•'Elbow leads the way!'
•'Three steps: 1-2-3-THROW!'
•'Palm to the sky in your power position!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m outdoor area or large sports hall, clear throwing lanes

Surface Check

Level surface free from holes, wet patches, or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check foam javelins for splits or damage before use
•Ensure tennis balls are in good condition
•Secure placement of benches and chairs for targets

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Implements hitting other students
•Collisions during approach runs
•Trips over equipment or uneven surfaces

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing directions established and maintained
•Only designated students retrieve implements
•Controlled approach distances prevent collisions
•Teacher positioned for maximum visibility

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Stand at angle to observe all throwing lanes
•Position for quick intervention if needed
•Monitor high-energy target activities closely

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, apply appropriate first aid, ensure other students remain in safe area