Running for speed: sprinting
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explore how to use my body to run as fast as possible so I have a good sprinting technique.
Key learning points
- Move: sprinting technique requires pumping arms, running on the balls of our feet, keeping our head focused forwards.
- Think: we need to stay in our own lane when sprinting to stop us from being disqualified.
- Feel: continuing to try our best, even when we don’t beat our record, shows that we have resilience.
- Connect: encouraging each other is important so everyone is motivated to try their best.
Keywords
Sprinting - when you run and use all of your energy to go as fast as you can for a short distance.
Race - a competition where runners compete to see who can run the fastest over a certain distance.
Lane - each runner’s individual space on the track so no one bumps into each other.
Common misconception
Pupils often believe that tensing their body (hands, face, arms, legs), will help them generate more speed.
Explain to pupils that this can actually slow them down, by affecting their running form and using energy inefficiently.
Teacher tip
In cycle 1, allow pupils to experiment with different techniques before guiding them towards the most efficient sprinting technique. Use the phrase 'hip to lip' to help pupils understand their arm movements when pumping them to run.
Equipment
30+ cones, beanbags.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which type of movement produces the most speed?
Q2.In which activity do you need to use acceleration?
Q3.When might you need to sprint in a game?
Q4.What does it mean to show resilience?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Where should you keep your head focused when sprinting in a race?
Q2.What can happen if you tense your body when sprinting?
Q3.What are you showing when you don’t win but continue to try your best?
Q4.How can you help motivate other pupils to try their best?
To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Running for speed: sprinting, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Running for speed: sprinting, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 2 physical education lessons from the Athletics: athletic challenges unit, dive into the full primary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.