Shot Put Fundamentals

Curriculum Area: Physical Education (Level 4 of The New Zealand Curriculum)

Big Idea:

Physical activity enhances hauora (well-being) and develops fundamental movement skills.

Learning Intentions:

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate correct shot put technique, including grip, stance, and release.
• Understand and apply the concept of force in relation to shot put performance.
• Recognise the importance of safety and sportsmanship in throwing events.

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Lesson Breakdown (45 minutes)

1. Introduction & Warm-Up (10 minutes)

Objective: Prepare students physically and mentally for shot put practice.

1. Karakia whakatuwhera (Opening karakia) – A short Māori prayer or reflection to set the right mindset (1 min).
2. Dynamic warm-up (6 mins):
   • Arm circles (30 sec)
   • Shoulder mobility stretches (30 sec)
   • Explosive jumps (1 min)
   • Medicine ball chest passes in pairs (3 mins)
3. Introduction to learning outcome (3 mins):
   • Explain the three key components of an effective shot put throw: Grip, Stance, and Release.
   • Brief historical context: Shot put origins and notable NZ athletes (e.g., Dame Valerie Adams).
   • Outline success criteria: Correct technique, power application, and control.

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2. Skill Development & Drills (20 minutes)

Objective: Learn and refine the basic phases of shot put through structured practice.

A) Grip & Stance (5 mins)

• Grip:
  • Hold the shot put with fingers (not palm).
  • Support with thumb; ensure control but not gripping too tightly.
• Stance:
  • Begin in a side-on position to the throwing area.
  • Shot put positioned near the neck under the jawline.
  • Knees slightly bent, weight balanced on back leg.

Practice: Pair work - students check each other’s grip and stance while holding a light medicine ball (2 mins).

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B) The Push & Release (5 mins)

• Emphasise pushing not throwing.
• Extend the arm fully while using leg drive & hip rotation.
• Follow through with fingers pointing towards the target.

Drill: Wall throws – push the shot put (or light ball) against the wall to reinforce technique (3 reps per student).

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C) Full Shot Put Throw (10 mins)

• Move to a safe throwing area with pre-marked circles.
• Students attempt three throws, focusing on technique over power.
• Peer feedback: After each throw, the partner provides a positive comment and one improvement.

Rotation System: While one group throws, others act as spotters and markers.

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3. Application & Reflection (10 minutes)

Objective: Reinforce learning by discussing progress and setting goals.

A) Mini Competition (5 mins)

• Using a designated area, students take turns throwing and measuring distances.
• Recognition of improvements and controlled power use over mere strength.

B) Cool-Down & Reflection (5 mins)

1. Light jogging (1 min)
2. Stretching (3 mins) – Focus on shoulders, arms, and legs.
3. Self & Peer Reflection (1 min) –
   • What did you do well today?
   • What will you focus on improving next time?
4. Karakia whakamutunga (Closing karakia) – End the session with gratitude and reflection.

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Assessment & Future Learning

• Peer Feedback Forms: Each student notes one strength and one area for improvement.
• Teacher Observation: Identify students needing additional technique refinement.
• In future lessons, introduce glide technique and further power applications.

Resources Needed

• Shot puts (or light medicine balls for beginners).
• Measuring tape/chalk markers.
• Cones for spacing.
• Reflection handouts (optional).

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Key Competencies Developed

✅ Thinking: Analysing the technique and making adjustments.
✅ Relating to Others: Giving and receiving constructive feedback.
✅ Participating and Contributing: Engaging safely and enthusiastically.

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Teacher Notes

• Reinforce the safety message: No throwing without teacher supervision.
• Use Māori terminology where applicable (e.g., tīmata – start, tuatahi – first).
• Make connections to real-world examples (Commonwealth/Olympic Games).
• Adapt for varying abilities (lighter shot puts for some students, extra challenges for experienced throwers).

This lesson fosters foundational throwing skills while integrating hauora principles, teamwork, and self-improvement, ensuring engagement and meaningful learning. 🚀