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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use the correct shot put technique and understand how to use my body to throw it further.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: to throw the shot put, hold it in the fingertips, feet wide apart and the shot under the chin with elbow up.
      2. Move: when releasing the shot, rotate the hips, push straight up and away from under the chin whilst extending the arm.
      3. Think: evaluating each other's shot put technique to identify strengths and weaknesses will improve performance.
      4. Feel: continuing to practise our throws shows we have the motivation to try to improve the distance we can achieve.
      5. Connect: be supportive and encourage others when they are struggling with their performance.

      Keywords

      • Shot put - an athletics event in which an athlete throws a heavy object called a "shot" as far as possible

      • Rotate - using the hips to create momentum and power before releasing the shot

      • Performance - how well we are able to execute a skill

      Common misconception

      Pupils just use their arm strength to throw the shot, not realising the importance of using their legs to generate power.

      Ensure pupils are crouching down into their back leg and pushing off strongly to create power when releasing the shot. Remind pupils that shot put is a push, not a throw.

      Teacher tip

      Using beanbags in the first cycle will allow pupils to focus on the technique and not worry about distance. Pupils will realise that if they release the beanbag towards the ground, it will skid out of the hoop, emphasising the need to push the beanbag up and high.

      Equipment

      1 shot between 2, 30+ cones, additional materials: throwing safety, 1 beanbag between 2, hoops

      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 an overarm throw?

      triple jump
      Correct answer: javelin
      sprint

      Q2.
      Which race requires a team of runners to take turns running different sections?

      sprint
      long distance
      Correct answer: relay

      Q3.
      What should you do with your throwing arm after throwing an object?

      nothing
      drop it
      Correct answer: extend it

      Q4.
      Which skill can help you to work well with your team?

      Correct answer: communication
      winning
      power

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What are you doing when you use your hips to help generate power when releasing the shot?

      spinning
      Correct answer: rotating
      jumping

      Q2.
      What is a benefit of using your legs when throwing the shot?

      Correct answer: generate more power
      generate less power
      shot goes lower

      Q3.
      What is one way you can improve your own throwing technique?

      Correct answer: evaluating your partner
      ignoring your partner
      making no changes

      Q4.
      By continuing to practise your throwing technique, what are you motivated to try and do?

      help your friends
      Correct answer: improve your throws
      make no changes

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