Running with efficiency - Lesson Plan

In the Year 3 Athletics unit, the first lesson is dedicated to 'Running with Efficiency'. The objectives are clear: pupils should be able to replicate a consistent running technique, understand the concept of running efficiency and how it applies to racing, and comprehend the effects of exercise on the body. To achieve these goals, a variety of resources are employed, including cones, hoops, and bean bags or batons. Literacy is also integrated into the lesson with key terms such as sprinting, accelerate, speed, and consistency/efficiency. The success criteria set for the pupils include the ability to run at an incremental speed, accelerate quickly, and sustain a running speed appropriate for the distance.

The lesson plan is structured with engaging activities starting with a 'Warm Up: Left, Right, Middle' which lasts for 5 minutes, where pupils respond to verbal commands and focus on reaction time. This is followed by 'Activity: Bean Bag Steal', a 10-minute drill that promotes consistent running speed and introduces the concept of recovery. The main activity, 'Circular Relays', spans 15 minutes and involves speed walking, running, and the use of relay batons or bean bags to encourage quick starts and speed maintenance. The lesson concludes with a 'Cool Down: Body Part Cool Down', a 5-minute session where pupils walk around and touch a called-out body part to the floor, focusing on deep breathing and monitoring the slowing of their heart rate. This well-rounded lesson plan is designed to enhance the pupils' running efficiency while making the learning process enjoyable and competitive.