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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain when and where relay changeovers take place on a track and apply tactics when taking part in a relay race.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: before we receive the relay baton, we start to run forwards with our hand behind us and palm up.
      2. Think: the baton needs to be exchanged in the changeover zone so that our team does not get disqualified.
      3. Feel: trying our best even if we find the changeover difficult demonstrates excellent self-motivation and teamwork.
      4. Connect: we communicate with each other when exchanging the baton to ensure we do not run outside the changeover zone.

      Keywords

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

      • Team - a group of people who work together with the objective of achieving the same goal

      • Changeover zone - a designated area on the track where the baton must be passed from one runner to the next

      Common misconception

      When pupils are receiving the baton, they turn their body to face the incoming runner to give them a better view and try to grab the baton from them.

      Explain to pupils that although this technique may seem easier, it will cause their team to lose speed. Pupils should face forwards, with their hand out behind them and communicate to ensure the exchange is successful.

      Teacher tip

      Placing the quicker team in the outside lane of the track will challenge them more as on some older tracks they will have to run a slightly further distance. However, the inner lane is also a challenge as it has tight bends to manage which can make runners run out of lane and run slower.

      Equipment

      1 baton between 4 pupils, 30+ cones

      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.
      What can help you to triple jump further?

      Correct answer: correct technique
      keeping arms still
      skipping a stage

      Q2.
      What is the name for a race where runners take turns running different parts?

      sprint
      cross country
      Correct answer: relay

      Q3.
      Which word describes the object that is passed in a relay race?

      stick
      Correct answer: baton
      pole

      Q4.
      How can you show self-motivation?

      always winning
      letting others win
      Correct answer: trying your best

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Where should your hand be when receiving the relay baton?

      out in front
      Correct answer: out behind
      by your side

      Q2.
      What can happen if you turn round to receive the baton when exchanging with your teammate?

      Correct answer: you slow down
      you speed up
      drop the baton

      Q3.
      What is the name for the zone that you must receive the baton in?

      Correct Answer: changeover zone, changeover, change over zone, change over

      Q4.
      What is the result of not receiving the baton in the changeover zone?

      you slow down
      you go faster
      Correct answer: you are disqualified

      To help you plan your 5 physical education lesson on: Relay changeovers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...