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      The grand final, relays and medal tables

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can perform under increased pressure and manage my emotions, regardless of the outcome.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: the correct upsweep or downsweep hand position for exchanging the baton increases speed and efficiency.
      2. Move: standing up straight on the podium in a confident position demonstrates pride.
      3. Think: knowing what to expect from previous experience will help to prepare physically and mentally for competition.
      4. Feel: participation in finals and relays requires high levels of focus and stress management.
      5. Connect: relying on teammates when passing the baton in a relay requires joint responsibility under pressure.

      Keywords

      • Relay - a race where team members take turns running a set distance, passing a baton to each other to complete the total distance

      • Baton exchange - when a small, lightweight object that is passed from one runner to the next in a relay race

      • Celebration - marking the end of the event with teammates, recognising achievements and enjoying the shared success and effort put in during the term

      Common misconception

      Pupils wait until they have the baton before starting to run in a relay.

      Outgoing runners need to move to the start of the exchange zone and start their run sooner to accelerate as they are handed the baton on the move. Practise the technique from stationary to running to ensure action is well rehearsed.

      Teacher tip

      All results and points that have been awarded throughout the unit will inform the podium at the final medal ceremony.

      Equipment

      medals (or coloured bibs/sashes) 5x gold, 5x silver and 5x bronze; batons x1 per team; stopwatches; hoops/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 distance is included in middle distance competitions?

      100m
      Correct answer: 800m
      3000m

      Q2.
      What is a high jump event measured in?

      seconds
      millimetres
      Correct answer: metres

      Q3.
      Who retrieves the shot from the field after it has been thrown?

      Correct answer: field assistant
      performer
      coach

      Q4.
      How many attempts do you have to clear the bar in high jump?

      1
      2
      Correct answer: 3

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      How many metres is the changeover zone in the relay event?

      10m
      Correct answer: 20m
      30m

      Q2.
      What medal is awarded for first place in a medal ceremony?

      Correct answer: gold
      silver
      bronze

      Q3.
      What distance is a relay run over?

      Correct answer: 400m
      600m
      800m

      Q4.
      What two techniques can be used in a baton exchange?

      Correct Answer: upsweep or downsweep, downsweep or upsweep

      To help you plan your 8 physical education lesson on: The grand final, relays and medal tables, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...