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Lesson 10 of 12
  • Year 7

Javelin technique

I can accurately perform an efficient javelin throw in practice conditions.

Lesson 10 of 12
New
New
  • Year 7

Javelin technique

I can accurately perform an efficient javelin throw in practice conditions.

These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

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These resources were created for remote use during the pandemic and are not designed for classroom teaching.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: being sure not to lock your elbow at any point in the throw will help to avoid a ‘bowling’ action.
  2. Move: a flick of the wrist on release supports the correct flight for the javelin to land nose first.
  3. Think: releasing the javelin one step from the foul line enables a follow through step after release to maximise power.
  4. Feel: being comfortable with managing and throwing the javelin comes from repetition and practice.
  5. 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.


To help you plan your year 7 physical education lesson on: Javelin technique, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

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.
Teacher tip

Equipment

rounders bats, javelins, cones

Content guidance

  • Risk assessment required - equipment

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Prior knowledge starter quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
How does leading with the shot first in shot put technique help us perform?

less control
Correct answer: avoid throwing shot
it’s a foul

Q2.
What impact can self-belief have on a person performing difficult tasks such as shot put?

Correct answer: improve confidence
hinder performance
makes shot lighter

Q3.
How will performing with maximal effort levels impact your performance?

makes you worse
no impact
Correct answer: achieve your best

Q4.
Which body part should line up with your toe and knee in the shot put start position?

Correct answer: toe
hip
ankle

Assessment exit quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
How can we become more comfortable with performing a technique such as javelin?

minimise practice
Correct answer: repetition of practice
don’t practice

Q2.
What is the cause of an ineffective ‘bowling’ action in javelin?

Correct answer: keeping arm straight
not flicking wrist
elbow bent

Q3.
Where does the non-throwing hand point in the javelin starting position?

to the ground
behind you
Correct answer: direction of throw

Q4.
Why might coaching someone by observing them and fixing errors be better for the performer?

keep them company
Correct answer: make faster progress
help them relax