Athletics - Lesson 5

In the fifth lesson of an athletics series for Year 5, students are taught the fundamentals of running relay races. The learning objectives are clear: pupils should be able to run within a designated zone, smoothly exchange a baton or bean bag, and participate competitively in relay events. The success of the lesson is measured by these criteria, ensuring that each child can confidently perform these tasks. Key vocabulary for the lesson includes terms such as "relay," "baton," and "change," which are crucial for understanding the mechanics of relay racing. Essential equipment for the lesson comprises marker cones and batons, which are used to facilitate the various activities planned for the session.

The lesson commences with a warm-up activity lasting 10 minutes, where students may watch a film of a relay race from a recent Olympics to understand the context and importance of the skills they will be learning. They also engage in a playful game called 'Toilet tag' to get their bodies moving. The main part of the lesson, which spans 30 minutes, involves a Baton Game where pupils practice baton exchanges within a marked zone, focusing on key teaching points such as the positioning of hands and maintaining speed during the exchange. The pupils work in pairs, refining their technique through repetition and variations to accommodate different abilities. The lesson culminates in a relay race around a running track, where teams exchange batons with a running start, applying the skills they have learned. A 10-minute cool-down follows, including gentle jogging and stretching, and a reflection period where pupils discuss the baton exchange technique to reinforce their learning.