Performing at your best
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can perform under pressure in a competitive scenario.
Key learning points
- Move: putting maximum effort into a performance allows for testing fitness and technique under pressure.
- Move: rehearsing key parts of the event beforehand can help to hit peak form when it matters.
- Think: managing nerves and using mental strategies can help stay focused and perform to full potential.
- Feel: giving your best and reflecting on progress can build confidence and self-belief.
- Connect: encouraging others during performance creates a positive and supportive environment.
Keywords
Performance - the act of executing your run to the best of your ability, especially when it counts
Focus - maintaining concentration and control, before and during the race, to avoid errors and maximise outcomes
Motivation - the internal drive or excitement to perform well, often heightened by competition and support
Common misconception
Pupils may believe that they need to feel hyped up or overly energised to perform well.
Overexcitement can lead to mistakes, such as, starting too fast or losing focus. Controlled breathing and mental rehearsal help you stay calm, focused and perform more efficiently.
Teacher tip
Matching pupils with others of similar ability/experience in race situations can help to push them to perform at their best. Choose race groups carefully for this added benefit.
Equipment
cones, stopwatches, workbooks/sheets
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What kind of increases must we make when applying FITT principles?
Q2.When is the best time to perform PNF?
Q3.What should both people do during PNF?
Q4.What key benefit does PNF provide?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What does deep breathing help with before a race?
Q2.How can you help other runners when you are not running?
Q3.What technique can boost confidence before running?
Q4.What could happen to someone who is overhyped at the start line?
To help you plan your 9 physical education lesson on: Performing at your best, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 9 physical education lesson on: Performing at your best, 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 3 physical education lessons from the Athletics: fitness development of pace or power unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.