Throwing for Distance: Javelin - Lesson Plan

In Year 4's athletics unit, Lesson Four is dedicated to mastering the art of throwing for distance, particularly focusing on the javelin. The lesson's objectives are threefold: firstly, to teach the students how to replicate the basic technique of throwing a javelin or a similar implement; secondly, to compare the throwing techniques from a standing position versus a run-up throw; and thirdly, to cultivate the students' ability to recognise and critique good throwing performances, including identifying correct technique in their peers. To support these objectives, resources such as cones, javelins or equivalents, and hoops are utilised, alongside literacy elements like understanding terms such as 'overarm throw', 'follow through', and 'explosive'.

The success criteria set for the students are clear and achievable: they aim to throw various objects athletically, adjust their throws to cover greater distances, and evaluate and improve upon their own and others' performances. The lesson begins with a warm-up involving tennis ball pairs for 5 minutes, where students practice throwing and retrieving, progressing to aiming for hoops to encourage higher throws. The main activity spans 15 minutes and involves throwing foam javelins from a marker towards distance markers, with a focus on improving technique for increased distance. This is followed by a competitive throwing segment, where throws are measured against a tiered achievement system based on distance. The lesson concludes with a 5-minute cool down of sumo squats, promoting controlled movement and flexibility.