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      Running for speed in a team

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can run as fast as possible as part of a team and apply changeover tactics on a curved track.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: when receiving the baton, our hand should be up behind us ready with palm upwards.
      2. Move: when running a curve, we lean slightly into the curve and pump our arms for balance.
      3. Think: applying relay tactics and deciding the order our team will run helps us to be more successful in a race.
      4. Feel: when taking part in a relay, taking responsibility for our team and explaining tactics helps improve performance.
      5. Connect: relay racing requires cooperation to successfully exchange the baton and complete the race.

      Keywords

      • Relay - a type of race where a team of runners takes turns running different sections of the race

      • Team - a group of people working together to achieve the same goal

      • Tactics - a carefully planned set of actions that are used by a team or an individual to achieve a certain goal

      Common misconception

      When pupils hold the relay baton, they hold it in the middle, believing that this will help them grip it best. This makes it hard for their teammate to grab the baton.

      Encourage pupils to hold the baton at the bottom when running, leaving more space for their teammate to hold when they changeover.

      Teacher tip

      If group numbers make it hard to split pupils into equal teams of 4, have stronger runners in smaller sized teams. If tags are unavaliable, use bibs tucked into pupil's waistband.

      Equipment

      1 baton between 4 pupils, 30+ cones, 1 tag belt per pupil.

      Content guidance

      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.
      Running on which parts of your feet helps you to be light and springy?

      heels
      Correct answer: balls
      toes

      Q2.
      What is the name for a race where you take it in turns with teammates to run parts of it?

      Correct answer: relay
      sprint
      pass race

      Q3.
      What is the name for the stick that is passed in a relay race?

      stick
      bat
      Correct answer: baton

      Q4.
      What helps to ensure you don’t drop the relay baton on a changeover?

      Correct answer: good communication
      resilience
      smiling

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What word describes a group of people who work together with the objective of achieving the same goal?

      friends
      Correct answer: team
      group

      Q2.
      When receiving the baton, where should your hand be?

      out in front
      Correct answer: up behind you
      to the side

      Q3.
      Where should you hold the baton to make it easier for your partner during the changeover?

      Correct answer: at the bottom
      in the middle
      on the end

      Q4.
      Which tactic can help your team improve when running a relay?

      Correct answer: running order
      throwing the baton
      slowing during changeover

      To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Running for speed in a team, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...