Overview

This 60-minute session is the third lesson in the "Track and Field Mastery" unit for Years 7-9, focusing on developing triple jump technique following a dynamic warm-up. The lesson strictly adheres to the National Curriculum for Physical Education (England) by developing pupils’ physical competence and confidence to enjoy and succeed in a range of physical activities.

---

National Curriculum Links

• Key Stage 3 Physical Education Programme of Study:
  • Pupils should develop their technique and improve their performance in a range of athletics activities (including jumps) [NC Ref: Pupils should develop competence, control and fluency in physical activities and apply these to different situations.]
  • Understand and apply principals of warm-up and cool-down, focusing on safety, injury prevention, and preparation for performance.
  • Develop physical skill, stamina, strength, speed, power, and coordination with a focus on improving techniques across activities.

---

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils will be able to:

1. Perform a dynamic warm-up that prepares the body for jumping events (rhythmic, controlled movements).
2. Demonstrate the triple jump phases (hop, step, jump) with correct rhythm and timing.
3. Analyse and describe the key teaching points of the triple jump technique.
4. Adapt the triple jump phases into individual components for personal development.

---

Success Criteria

• Pupils complete a dynamic warm-up incorporating jogging, lunges, high knees, and leg swings with control and purpose.
• Pupils execute the triple jump sequence correctly, showing clear rhythm through each phase and landing safely.
• Pupils verbally identify at least two teaching points of technique during or after performance.
• Pupils who require further support break down the sequence and perform each jump phase in isolation with improved confidence.
• Advanced pupils increase jump distance while maintaining technique.

---

Equipment Needed

• Cones or markers (for warm-up circuit and run-up marking)
• Tape or chalk (to mark jump distances)
• Mats or soft landing area (if indoors)
• Stopwatches or metronomes (for rhythm practice)
• Whistles and score sheets (for teacher assessment and class management)

---

Lesson Structure

1. Starter & Introduction (10 minutes)

• Explain lesson objectives and success criteria clearly.
• Discuss the importance of warming up dynamically to reduce injury and improve performance (link to NC focus on safety and injury prevention).
• Teacher models a short dynamic warm-up circuit: jogging, high knees, butt kicks, lunges, leg swings, arm circles.
• Pupils repeat, focusing on controlled, rhythmic movements.

Differentiation:

• Pupils with limited mobility perform modified, gentle movements.
• Advanced pupils add intensity (higher knees, faster tempo).

---

2. Dynamic Warm-Up Circuit (10 minutes)

• Set up stations:
  1. Jogging with high knees (30 seconds)
  2. Walking lunges (30 seconds)
  3. Leg swings (15 seconds each leg)
  4. Arm circles and torso twists (30 seconds)
• Pupils rotate through each station with minimal rest.
• Teacher emphasises correct posture and breathing.

Assessment for Learning:

• Observe pupil engagement and technique; prompt correction for poor form linked to injury risk.

---

3. Introduction to the Triple Jump (5 minutes)

• Teacher explains components: hop (take-off from same foot), step (landing on opposite foot), jump (landing in sandpit or designated area).
• Emphasise rhythm: even spacing between jumps, fluid motion.
• Show video/model performer if available.

---

4. Technique Breakdown & Practice (15 minutes)

• Pupils practise each component individually:

  • Hop phase along a marked straight line.
  • Step phase following the hop.
  • Jump phase after the step.

• Teacher circulates, giving stern, clear technical feedback focusing on:

  • Take-off foot placement
  • Body posture (upright, eyes forward)
  • Arm drive coordination
  • Balanced and controlled landing

Differentiation:

• Pupils struggling with coordination break down phases further and practise slow, supported movements.
• Advanced pupils encouraged to combine two phases progressively, working on fluid transitions.

---

5. Full Triple Jump Sequence Practice (15 minutes)

• Pupils attempt full triple jump from run-up to landing, focusing on rhythm.
• Teacher times or measures jumps, providing immediate, specific feedback.
• Encourage peer feedback based on success criteria.
• Emphasise safety during landings and run-ups.

Extension:

• Advanced pupils encouraged to focus on increasing jump distance while maintaining technique and rhythm.
• They can analyse their run-up speed or attempt variations with arm drive to improve propulsion.

---

6. Cool-Down & Reflection (5 minutes)

• Slow jogging followed by static stretching focusing on legs (hamstrings, calves, quads).
• Group discussion: pupils articulate one technical point they improved on and one area for further practice.
• Teacher formally assesses if success criteria have been met.

---

Differentiation Strategies

• For Pupils Needing Extra Help:
  • Use of visual aids or demonstration breakdowns.
  • Smaller group or 1:1 support during phases practice.
  • Allow additional practice time on individual phases.
• For Advanced Learners:
  • Challenge pupils with timed jumps or competitive circuits.
  • Introduce biomechanical concepts such as angle of take-off and force application.
  • Encourage goal setting to increase jump distance progressively.

---

Assessment Opportunities

• Ongoing formative assessment through teacher observation using clear technical markers.
• Peer and self-assessment against success criteria during full sequence practice.
• End-of-lesson verbal reflection on learning outcomes.

---

Behaviour Management & Safety Notes

• Strict enforcement of safety rules for run-up zones and landing areas.
• Clear instructions to stop activity immediately if a pupil is at risk or injured.
• Use stern tone when correcting unsafe behaviours to maintain discipline.
• Ensure equipment is safely and securely set up before activity.

---

Summary

This lesson delivers a comprehensive dynamic warm-up and triple jump technique session that meets the England National Curriculum’s expectations for Year 7-9 pupils, focusing on skill development, safety, and personal challenge. The session balances teacher-led instruction, individualised support, peer learning and physical conditioning—all within a structured, discipline-focused environment to maximise engagement and progress.