Athletics - Lesson 5

In the fifth lesson of the Year 3 athletics programme, students are introduced to the fundamentals of relay racing, with a particular emphasis on the skill of baton exchange. The learning objectives are clear: students should be able to pass the baton from a standing start and within the context of a race. To achieve these objectives, a variety of activities are planned to develop the necessary skills. The lesson begins with a warm-up game called 'tails', where students, designated as 'mice', tuck coloured bands or bibs into their shorts to act as tails that 'cats' must chase and remove, teaching agility and awareness. The main activities then focus on baton handling, starting with a 'Follow The Leader' exercise where pairs practice passing the baton on command without looking back, and progressing to a 'Relay Round Robin' where pairs run between cones to exchange the baton under more dynamic conditions.

The session is well-equipped with coloured bands or bibs, batons or bean bags, cone markers, and gym mats to facilitate the activities. After the main exercises, the lesson culminates in a competition where teams participate in a relay race, applying the baton exchange skills they've learned. This practical application is designed to reinforce the key teaching points and allow students to experience the thrill of the race. Finally, the lesson concludes with a cool-down period featuring gentle jogging, stretching, and reflective discussions. Students are encouraged to consider what went well, what could be improved, and to reflect on the key aspects of effective baton passing, ensuring that they understand both the physical and cognitive aspects of relay racing.