Jumping Horizontally - Lesson Plan

In the fourth lesson of the Year 2 Athletics unit, students will focus on mastering the basic technique of jumping horizontally. The key lesson objectives include replicating the correct form for a horizontal jump, understanding the impact of arm swinging on the distance jumped, and learning about the muscles involved in generating the power necessary for an effective jump. To facilitate learning, resources such as cones, bibs, hoops, and resource cards detailing stretches and jumping techniques will be utilized. The success criteria for the lesson are clearly outlined, allowing students to gauge their progress: they aim to use their body to jump outwards, take a running jump from a take-off line, and use their arms to enhance their jumping distance.

The lesson begins with a warm-up game called 'Donkey Tails', where students will have a bib placed in their waistband to mimic a tail, and 'catchers' will attempt to remove them. This is followed by group stretches to prepare the body for physical activity. The main activities include ladder drills to practice footwork and jumping techniques, with an emphasis on using leg muscles and arm movements to increase jumping power. Students will also engage in a 'Paired Crossing' activity, which involves strategic movement across a 'swamp' using hoops or mats, encouraging teamwork and technique refinement. The lesson concludes with a 'Statues' cool down, where students practice balance and control through various poses, combined with deep breathing to relax the body after the session.