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      Individual athletics competition

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can take part in an athletics competition which involves running, throwing and jumping events.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: to do our best in an athletics competition, it is important to perform with the correct technique for all events.
      2. Think: reflecting on our performances allows us to identify strengths and weaknesses so we can perform better.
      3. Feel: when we struggle with an athletics event, we have to be determined and resilient to continue to try our best.
      4. Connect: encouraging other pupils shows respect and integrity.

      Keywords

      • Compete - the process or act of trying to win

      • Performance - how well we are able to execute a skill such as running, throwing or jumping

      • Events - competitive activities, for example in athletics, we test physical abilities such as speed, strength, endurance and agility

      Common misconception

      Pupils only focus on winning and become disappointed if they don't win.

      Encourage pupils to be motivated to try and win, but to understand that performing to the best of their ability and enjoying themselves is what they need to aim for.

      Teacher tip

      Deliver the learning cycles simaltaenously as a carousel, with 1 group on each station at a time, rotating round after a set amount of time. The KLP's from each cycle apply to all parts of the lesson. Make sure the throwing activities are in a safe space and monitored by an adult.

      Equipment

      30+ cones, 5 x javelins, 5 x shots, additional material: throwing safety, worksheet: competition scorecard

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - equipment

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which event requires you to throw an object?

      Correct answer: javelin
      hurdles
      relay

      Q2.
      How can you generate power when jumping?

      looking down
      Correct answer: swinging your arms
      having straight legs

      Q3.
      When might you sprint in a long distance race?

      the start
      the middle
      Correct answer: the end

      Q4.
      What’s important for success in a competition?

      Correct answer: having resilience
      having respect
      being the tallest

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which word describes the different activities that test different skills in athletics?

      Correct Answer: events, event

      Q2.
      What is important to do in every event you compete in?

      win
      Correct answer: try your best
      beat your friends

      Q3.
      Through self-reflection, what can you identify that will help you to improve your own performance?

      the fastest pupil
      your favourtie event
      Correct answer: strengths and weaknesses

      Q4.
      What are you showing when you encourage other pupils?

      Correct answer: respect and integrity
      speed and power
      motivation and determination

      To help you plan your 6 physical education lesson on: Individual athletics competition, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...