Basic Javelin Skills (JSS 3 PHE Lesson Plan) Physical and Health Education JSS 3 First Term Lesson Notes Week 2

Basic Javelin Skills (JSS 3 PHE Lesson Plan)


Subject: Physical and Health Education

Class: JSS 3

Term: First Term

Week: 2

Age: 13–15 years

Topic: Introduction to Javelin

Subtopics:

  1. Skills in Javelin: Grip, Carriage, Run-Up, Release, Follow-through, and Recovery
  2. Performance of Basic Javelin Skills
  3. Drawing and Labeling the Javelin Sector with Dimensions

Duration: 40 minutes


Behavioural Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

  1. Define javelin and explain its role in athletics.
  2. List and describe the basic skills involved in javelin throwing.
  3. Demonstrate basic javelin skills such as grip, run-up, and release with guidance.
  4. Draw and label the javelin sector with the correct dimensions.

Keywords:

  • Javelin
  • Grip
  • Run-Up
  • Release
  • Follow-through

Set Induction (5 minutes)

The teacher begins by asking, “Have you ever thrown a stick for fun, trying to see how far it can go?” This question relates to students’ everyday experiences and introduces them to the idea of javelin.
The teacher may also show a short video of professional athletes throwing javelins to inspire the students.


Entry Behaviour

Students are already familiar with throwing activities, such as shot put and discus.


Learning Resources and Materials:

  1. Whiteboard or chalkboard
  2. Markers or chalk
  3. Javelin or a substitute (like a long stick)
  4. Printed handouts with sector diagrams (optional)

Building Background / Connection to Prior Knowledge

The teacher recalls the previous lesson on pole vault and highlights the importance of proper technique in field events. The class discusses similarities between javelin and other throwing events.


Embedded Core Skills:

  • Critical Thinking
  • Teamwork
  • Observation
  • Coordination

Reference Books:

  • Lagos State Scheme of Work for Physical and Health Education
  • Approved PHE Textbooks for JSS 3

Instructional Materials:

  1. Video or image demonstrations of javelin throwing
  2. Drawing tools (ruler, compass)
  3. Whiteboard/chalkboard


Lesson Content

1. Definition of Javelin

  • Javelin is a track and field event where athletes throw a long, spear-like object as far as possible.
  • It requires strength, speed, and precision. The goal is to throw the javelin within a defined sector without crossing the throwing line.

2. Skills in Javelin Throwing

  1. Grip: Holding the javelin with one hand near the grip area, ensuring a firm but relaxed hold.
  2. Carriage: Carrying the javelin parallel to the ground during the run-up.
  3. Run-Up: A controlled sprint to generate momentum before the throw.
  4. Release: Throwing the javelin overhand, aiming for distance and accuracy.
  5. Follow-through: Allowing the throwing arm to extend fully after the release.
  6. Recovery: Regaining balance after the throw to avoid fouling.

3. Performance of Basic Javelin Skills

  • Students will practice the grip, carriage, and run-up under teacher supervision.
  • They will attempt simple throws using substitutes (like sticks) to master the release and follow-through.

4. Drawing and Labeling the Javelin Sector with Dimensions

  • Runway Length: 30–36.5 meters.
  • Sector Angle: 28.96 degrees.
  • Throwing Line: At the end of the runway; athletes must not step beyond this line.
  • Landing Area: Must fall within the sector for a valid throw.
  • Javelin Length: 2.6–2.7 meters for men, 2.2–2.3 meters for women.

Examples of Javelin Events

  1. Olympic Games – Standard event for both men and women.
  2. Inter-house Sports – Common in Nigerian schools.
  3. National Athletics Championships – Held across different states.
  4. Decathlon and Heptathlon Events – Include javelin as one of the events.
  5. Community Sports Events – Organized at local levels for youth engagement.

Class Activity Discussion 

  1. Q: What is the primary goal of javelin throwing?
    A: To throw the javelin as far as possible within the sector.
  2. Q: What type of event is javelin?
    A: It is a field event.
  3. Q: What should an athlete do after releasing the javelin?
    A: Follow through and recover without crossing the throwing line.
  4. Q: What happens if the javelin lands outside the sector?
    A: The throw is invalid.
  5. Q: What material is used to make modern javelins?
    A: Fiberglass or metal.
  6. Q: How long is the runway for javelin?
    A: Between 30 and 36.5 meters.
  7. Q: Can athletes use both hands to throw the javelin?
    A: No, it must be thrown with one hand.
  8. Q: What is the importance of follow-through?
    A: It ensures the throw is smooth and accurate.
  9. Q: What happens if the athlete steps over the throwing line?
    A: The throw is considered a foul.
  10. Q: What is the ideal grip for holding the javelin?
    A: A firm but relaxed grip near the grip area.
  11. Q: Is javelin included in school sports?
    A: Yes, it is part of many school competitions.
  12. Q: Can javelins have different lengths?
    A: Yes, based on the gender and level of the athletes.
  13. Q: What angle defines the javelin sector?
    A: 28.96 degrees.
  14. Q: What should athletes focus on during the run-up?
    A: Maintaining speed and control.
  15. Q: How can students improve their javelin throwing skills?
    A: Through regular practice and proper coaching.

Evaluation Questions 

  1. Define javelin.
  2. List three skills involved in javelin throwing.
  3. How long is the javelin runway?
  4. What is the purpose of the follow-through?
  5. What happens if the athlete crosses the throwing line?
  6. Name two throwing events other than javelin.
  7. Describe the correct grip for holding the javelin.
  8. What material is used for modern javelins?
  9. How can students avoid fouls in javelin?
  10. Why is recovery important in javelin?

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions

  1. Javelin is a __________ event.
    a) Track
    b) Field
    c) Road
    d) Water
  2. The javelin must land within the __________.
    a) Sector
    b) Runway
    c) Line
    d) Circle
  3. The __________ helps generate momentum.
    a) Grip
    b) Run-Up
    c) Release
    d) Recovery
  4. A __________ throw occurs when the athlete crosses the line.
    a) Valid
    b) Foul
    c) Measured
    d) Safe
  5. The javelin sector is marked at __________ degrees.
    a) 20
    b) 28.96
    c) 45
    d) 36
  6. The javelin must be thrown with __________ hand(s).
    a) One
    b) Two
    c) Both
    d) Either
  7. The follow-through ensures a __________ throw.
    a) Smooth
    b) Short
    c) Weak
    d) Missed
  8. The length of the runway is __________ meters.
    a) 20-25
    b) 30-36.5
    c) 15-20
    d) 10-15
  9. Javelin competitions are held during the __________ Games.
    a) Winter
    b) Summer
    c) Community
    d) Regional
  10. Athletes should practice __________ to improve their throws.
    a) Daily
    b) Randomly
    c) Occasionally
    d) Never

Conclusion

The teacher will move around, supervising students’ practice and marking their work. Feedback will be provided to correct mistakes and improve skills.