🏃

Lesson 4 - Triple & High Jump Techniques

Technique Mastery & Biomechanics

•

Year 8

•

Athletics

•

Big Question

How can understanding biomechanics and physics improve our jumping performance?

Learning Objectives

Perform the correct triple jump technique with hop, step, jump sequence
Demonstrate improved high jump technique using scissor jump method
Apply appropriate techniques for specific jumping events
Understand the importance of specific warm-ups for different activities

Key Outcomes

Students will execute a fluent triple jump sequence with correct foot patterns
Students will clear progressively higher heights using proper scissor jump technique
Students will demonstrate understanding of biomechanical principles in jumping
Students will explain why different warm-ups are needed for different athletic events

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

20-30

Used for marking take-off points, boundaries, and approach markers

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines, or tape marks

Measuring Tapes

2-3 (30m length)

For measuring jumping distances and setting up accurate markers

Alternative: Metre sticks for shorter measurements

High Jump Posts

Positioned to allow for curved approach from both sides

Alternative: Skittle ball posts or adjustable stands

PE Equipment

Should be easily displaced if contacted for safety

Alternative: Bamboo cane, rope, or elastic band

Crash Mats

2-3 large mats

Positioned beyond landing area with adequate coverage

Alternative: Thick gymnastics mats stacked together

Score Sheets

7 sheets

One per team for recording measurements and calculations

Alternative: Clipboards with blank paper

Calculator

6-8

For team challenge calculations and measurements

Alternative: Mobile phone calculator apps

Sand Pit

For triple jump landing - must be level and safe

Alternative: Grass area marked with boundaries

Key Vocabulary

Triple Jump

An athletic event involving three consecutive phases: hop, step, and jump

Hop

First phase of triple jump - taking off and landing on the same foot

Step

Second phase of triple jump - landing on opposite foot to the hop

Scissor Jump

High jump technique where legs move in a scissors-like motion over the bar

Take-off

The moment when feet leave the ground to begin the jumping phase

Approach

The run-up pattern used to build momentum before jumping

Biomechanics

The study of movement and how forces affect athletic performance

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic jumping and landing mechanics from Year 7
Understanding of run-up approaches
Experience with simple athletic events
Knowledge of basic warm-up principles

Current Skills

Triple jump sequence coordination
High jump scissor technique
Biomechanical awareness in jumping
Event-specific preparation strategies

Next Steps

Advanced jumping techniques like Fosbury Flop
Competition preparation and tactics
Technical analysis and coaching skills
Performance measurement and improvement

Milestone Indicators

Consistent triple jump sequence without breaking rhythm

Ability to clear own height in high jump

Understanding of optimal take-off angles

Leadership in team challenges

Key Teaching Points

Triple jump sequence must maintain hop-step-jump foot pattern consistently
High jump scissor technique requires sideways approach and leading leg action
Curved approach in high jump creates natural sideways position for take-off
Forward momentum must be maintained throughout triple jump sequence
Safety in landing technique is more important than distance or height achieved
Team cooperation and accurate measurement are essential in challenge activities
Different activities require specific warm-up preparation for optimal performance

Common Misconceptions

Triple jump is just three normal jumps - actually requires specific foot patterns and rhythm
High jump approach should be straight on - curved approach is more effective and natural
Bigger run-up always means better performance - technique and control are more important
All jumping events use the same preparation - different events need specific warm-ups
Height/distance is most important - technique and safety should be prioritised
Warm-up exercises can be the same for all activities - specificity improves performance

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries and rules, positive reinforcement, movement breaks between instructions

dyspraxia

Simplified sequences initially, extra practice time, larger targets, visual guides for foot patterns

autism spectrum

Clear routine and structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet area available if needed, consistent language

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured markers and equipment, verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for start/stop, visual cues for timing

physical disability

Seated throwing activities as alternative, modified heights and distances, wheelchair-accessible paths

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, following complex instructions, team communication skills

Maths

Measuring distances accurately, adding team totals, calculating averages, working with decimal measurements

Science

Forces and motion in jumping, gravity and trajectory, energy transfer from run-up to take-off

Geography

Distances and scales relating to animal heights, spatial awareness and direction

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, perseverance through challenges, self-evaluation and honesty

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between jumping areas maintaining sight of all students, prioritise high jump station supervision

Observation Focus

Watch for correct foot patterns in triple jump, safe landing technique, and equipment safety

Intervention Points

Step in for incorrect technique affecting safety, equipment issues, or peer conflicts

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clear visibility, demonstrate common mistakes to avoid, show both successful and learning attempts

Verbal Cues

•'Hop, step, jump!'
•'Sideways to the bar!'
•'Soft landings!'
•'Technique first!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large sports hall or outdoor athletics area with minimum 40m x 30m clear space

Surface Check

Level, dry surface free from holes, debris, or hazardous objects

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•High jump bar must fall easily when contacted
•Crash mats properly positioned and in good condition
•No gaps between mats that could cause injury
•Measuring tapes wound safely when not in use

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during jumping activities
•Collisions between students during run-ups
•Improper landing technique causing injury
•Equipment-related injuries from high jump setup

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and approach lanes established
•Adequate spacing between jumping areas
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Constant supervision of high jump area
•Emphasis on technique over distance/height

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all jumping areas
•Particular attention to high jump landing area
•Monitor student fatigue levels affecting safety
•Ensure equipment setup remains safe throughout lesson

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid response, clear area if needed