Jumping Techniques

Lesson Overview

Year Level: Year 9
Subject: Physical Education
Unit: Athletics and Wellbeing (Lesson 3 of 5)
Lesson Duration: 60 minutes
NCEA Curriculum Area: Health and Physical Education – Level 4-5
Big Idea: Movement and its impact on wellbeing
Key Competencies: Thinking, Participating and Contributing, Managing Self

Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

• Understand and apply the fundamental techniques for high jump and long jump.
• Develop movement skills through guided practice and peer feedback.
• Recognise the importance of safety in athletics.
• Reflect on how movement and participation contribute to overall wellbeing.

---

Lesson Structure

1. Introduction & Warm-Up (10 minutes)

Objective: Prepare students physically and mentally for the session.

1. Quick Discussion (2 min): Ask students to reflect on their last Athletics lesson (sprinting skills). How did movement influence their energy and focus?
2. Dynamic Warm-Up (8 min):
   • Jump drills: Hops, bounding, and hurdle steps.
   • Mobility exercises: Leg swings, arm circles, and hip openers.
   • Reaction drills: Quick jumps off both feet for explosiveness.

---

2. Long Jump Techniques & Drills (20 minutes)

Objective: Teach students the phases of long jump (approach, take-off, flight, landing).

Step 1: Explanation & Modelling (5 min)

• Demonstrate correct approach stride (gradual acceleration).
• Explain take-off (one-foot push-off for distance).
• Show the landing (feet together, arms in front).

Step 2: Guided Practice (10 min)

Drill 1 – Approach Runs (3 min)

• Students practise controlled sprinting into a jump take-off.

Drill 2 – Take-Off & Flight (6 min)

• Students complete three-step jumps into the sandpit.
• Use cones for visual cues on stride length.
• Teammates provide feedback using a simple checklist (e.g., "Was your arms driving up? Were your legs bent correctly?").

Step 3: Performance Challenge (5 min)

• Mini competition: 3 attempts at a full jump.
• Students cheer for each other and provide positive feedback.

---

3. High Jump Techniques & Drills (20 minutes)

Objective: Introduce the Fosbury Flop, focusing on take-off, body positioning, and landing.

Step 1: Explanation & Modelling (5 min)

• Demonstrate the curved approach, strong take-off leg, and body arching over the bar.
• Reinforce safe landing on the mat (landing on the back, not feet).

Step 2: Guided Practice (10 min)

Drill 1 – Approach Runs (3 min)

• Students practise the J-shaped run-up using cones for pathway guidance.

Drill 2 – Take-Off & Clearance (6 min)

• Students use low hurdles to practice knee drive and body arching.
• Partner feedback: "Was your knee high? Did you land safely?"

Step 3: Performance Challenge (5 min)

• Low-bar jumps: Each student attempts a high jump over a low bar or rope.
• Focus on effort over height for beginners.

---

4. Reflection & Cool Down (10 minutes)

Objective: Evaluate performance, connect learning to wellbeing.

1. Group Discussion (5 min):

   • What did you find challenging or enjoyable?
   • How did teamwork and encouragement impact your confidence?
   • How do jumping activities improve your overall fitness?

2. Cool Down (5 min):

   • Breathing control exercises.
   • Light stretching (hamstrings, calves, quads, back).

---

Assessment & Next Steps

• Peer Feedback Observation: Monitor how well students apply technique cues.
• Self-Reflection: Students rate their performance and confidence in both jumps (scale 1-5).
• Next Lesson Preview: Sprinting and jumping combined (hurdles & relays).

---

Teacher Notes

• Adapt equipment (lower bars or shorter distances) for different skill levels.
• Maintain a positive, inclusive environment, celebrating all progress.
• Use Te Reo Māori terms where possible, e.g., Kia kaha! (Be strong!), Tino pai! (Well done!).

Big Picture Connection

This lesson supports the NCEA Physical Education Learning Matrix, reinforcing movement development and well-being through whanaungatanga (peer support) and hauora (overall health and wellbeing).

Let’s inspire students to jump towards success, both in athletics and in life! 🚀