Lesson 4 - Triple & High Jump Techniques
Technique Mastery & Biomechanics
•Year 8
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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- Complete activity instructions & timing
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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
Used for marking take-off points, boundaries, and approach markers
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines, or tape marks
For measuring jumping distances and setting up accurate markers
Alternative: Metre sticks for shorter measurements
Positioned to allow for curved approach from both sides
Alternative: Skittle ball posts or adjustable stands
Should be easily displaced if contacted for safety
Alternative: Bamboo cane, rope, or elastic band
Positioned beyond landing area with adequate coverage
Alternative: Thick gymnastics mats stacked together
One per team for recording measurements and calculations
Alternative: Clipboards with blank paper
For team challenge calculations and measurements
Alternative: Mobile phone calculator apps
For triple jump landing - must be level and safe
Alternative: Grass area marked with boundaries
Key Vocabulary
An athletic event involving three consecutive phases: hop, step, and jump
First phase of triple jump - taking off and landing on the same foot
Second phase of triple jump - landing on opposite foot to the hop
High jump technique where legs move in a scissors-like motion over the bar
The moment when feet leave the ground to begin the jumping phase
The run-up pattern used to build momentum before jumping
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
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