Running and Matching/Relay - Lesson Plan

In the second lesson of the Athletics unit for Year 1, the pupils are introduced to the fundamentals of running and the dynamics of a relay race. The objectives are to develop their running technique, speed matching skills, and to grasp the basic structure of a relay race, including the importance of conserving energy for a final burst to finish strongly. The resources provided include batons, bean bags, quoits, cones, and bibs, as well as resource cards that illustrate stretches and relay running techniques. The lesson's success criteria are tailored to the pupils' ability to run at varying speeds, match the speed of their peers, and effectively tag and work with a partner in a team setting.

The warm-up activity starts with a fun 'Group by Numbers' game where pupils move around in different modes—walking, jumping, hopping, skipping, and jogging—and group themselves according to called-out numbers. This is followed by group stretches using visual stretching cards. In the main activity, 'Speed Matching', pupils practice running from one line to another, focusing on technique and speed. They work in pairs to understand and replicate each other's running speeds, with the added challenge of increasing distances. The session then moves on to relays, where pupils engage in fun relays to practice running techniques and the exchange of items like batons. The lesson concludes with a 'Traffic Lights' cool-down, where pupils jog, walk, and then stand still while focusing on controlled breathing and heart rate reduction, also enhancing listening and independence skills.