Javelin technique
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can accurately perform an efficient javelin throw in practice conditions.
Key learning points
- Move: being sure not to lock your elbow at any point in the throw will help to avoid a ‘bowling’ action.
- Move: a flick of the wrist on release supports the correct flight for the javelin to land nose first.
- Think: releasing the javelin one step from the foul line enables a follow through step after release to maximise power.
- Feel: being comfortable with managing and throwing the javelin comes from repetition and practice.
- Connect: acting as a coach to fix errors in technique can help others to make progress much quicker than learning alone.
Keywords
Pencil grip - a way of holding the javelin similar to how you might hold a pencil
Follow through - the movement that occurs after the javelin is released
Release - the moment you let go of the javelin
Common misconception
A common mistake pupils make is using a 'bowling' style of throw in which the throwing arm remains straight throughout the action.
Ask pupils to think about pulling the javelin through, with the elbow leading first.
Teacher tip
As with all throwing lessons, command teaching style is required to ensure the safety of pupils. Be clear on instructions to leave no doubt about when you are happy for pupils to throw, how and when to collect the javelin and how to carry it back.
Equipment
rounders bats, javelins, cones
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.How does leading with the shot first in shot put technique help us perform?
Q2.What impact can self-belief have on a person performing difficult tasks such as shot put?
Q3.How will performing with maximal effort levels impact your performance?
Q4.Which body part should line up with your toe and knee in the shot put start position?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.How can we become more comfortable with performing a technique such as javelin?
Q2.What is the cause of an ineffective ‘bowling’ action in javelin?
Q3.Where does the non-throwing hand point in the javelin starting position?
Q4.Why might coaching someone by observing them and fixing errors be better for the performer?
To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Javelin technique, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Javelin technique, 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: run, jump, throw and officiate unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.