Athletics II Physical and Health Education SS1 First Term Lesson Notes Week 5

Physical and Health Education SS1 First Term Lesson Notes

Week 5: Athletics II


1. Subject: Physical and Health Education

2. Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1)

3. Term: First Term

4. Week: 5

5. Age Group: 14–15 years

6. Topic: Athletics II

7. Sub-topic: Starting Methods for Races, Rules and Regulations of Track Events, and Basic Officiating Duties

8. Duration: 40 minutes


Behavioral Objectives

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

  1. Explain the different starting methods for track races.
  2. Identify the key rules and regulations governing track events.
  3. Describe the basic officiating duties involved in athletics competitions.

Keywords:

  • Starting Methods: Techniques used to begin track races, including standing start and crouch start.
  • Rules and Regulations: The guidelines that govern the conduct of athletes and officials during track events.
  • Officiating: The duties performed by officials during athletic events, including starting races, timing, and ensuring fair play.

Set Induction

Ask students if they have ever participated in a race and how they prepared for the start of the race. Introduce the concept of starting methods and the importance of following the rules in athletics competitions. Mention that the role of an official is critical in ensuring that the race is conducted fairly.

Entry Behavior

Students may have prior experience with races or have seen track events during sports days or competitions.


Learning Resources and Materials

  1. Visual aids showing starting positions for different types of races (crouch start, standing start).
  2. A whistle for simulating the start of a race.
  3. Copies of the basic rules and regulations for athletics events.
  4. Stopwatch for timing and demonstrating officiating duties.

Building Background / Connection to Prior Knowledge

Review the different types of track events discussed in the previous week’s lesson (sprints, middle-distance, and long-distance races). Explain that each race has specific starting methods and rules that must be followed to ensure fairness and safety.

Embedded Core Skills

  • Responsibility (for following rules and regulations).
  • Decision-making (as an official or athlete).
  • Communication (in the role of an official and during races).

Learning Materials


Instructional Materials

  • Charts/Visuals: Diagrams of different starting positions.
  • Whistle: For simulating the race start.
  • Stopwatch: To demonstrate timing during races.
  • Rulebook: Basic rules and regulations for track events.

Content

  1. Starting Methods for Races
    • Standing Start: Involves the athlete starting from a standing position. This method is typically used for longer races (800m, 1500m) or for events like the 5,000m and 10,000m.
    • Crouch Start: This is the most common start for shorter races (100m, 200m). The athlete starts from a crouching position with hands placed on the track and feet positioned at the starting blocks.
    • Rolling Start: This is used in relay races, where the runner begins moving while the baton is handed to them by the previous runner.
  2. Rules and Regulations of Track Events
    • Start Procedure: Athletes must follow the official’s instructions to assume the correct start position (either crouch or standing).
    • False Start: A false start occurs if an athlete moves before the signal is given. The athlete is usually disqualified after one false start.
    • Lane Infringement: Athletes must stay within their designated lane during the race. Crossing into another lane may lead to disqualification.
    • Finishing Line: The race ends when the athlete crosses the finish line with their chest or body.
    • Disqualification: Athletes may be disqualified for not adhering to race rules, such as false starts, lane violations, or interfering with other competitors.
  3. Basic Officiating Duties
    • Starting Official: Responsible for ensuring that all athletes are properly positioned at the start line. The official signals the start of the race using a whistle or pistol.
    • Timekeeping: Timing the athletes’ performance using a stopwatch or electronic timing system.
    • Judging: Officials must judge the race to determine if the athletes adhered to all the rules, such as whether they remained in their lanes or if they committed a false start.
    • Finish Line Official: Ensures the accurate recording of race results and makes decisions on close finishes.

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions (15)

  1. The _____ start is commonly used for longer races like the 800m and 1500m. (a) crouch (b) standing (c) rolling (d) sprint.
  2. In a _____ start, athletes begin from a crouching position using starting blocks. (a) standing (b) false (c) crouch (d) rolling.
  3. A _____ start occurs when an athlete moves before the official signal is given. (a) true (b) false (c) perfect (d) clean.
  4. During a race, athletes must stay within their _____ to avoid disqualification. (a) shoes (b) lane (c) speed (d) position.
  5. The _____ official signals the start of a race. (a) finish (b) time (c) starting (d) line.
  6. An athlete can be disqualified for _____ during a race. (a) crossing lanes (b) drinking water (c) waving hands (d) smiling.
  7. The _____ official records the finish of the race. (a) time (b) line (c) finish (d) start.
  8. _____ events are generally started using the crouch start method. (a) Sprints (b) Middle-distance (c) Relay (d) Long-distance.
  9. A _____ official ensures the accurate recording of the race results. (a) finish (b) time (c) starting (d) judging.
  10. A false start results in an _____ for the athlete. (a) award (b) praise (c) disqualification (d) penalty.
  11. _____ is when athletes are positioned correctly for the start and wait for the signal. (a) Crouch (b) False start (c) Start procedure (d) Lane infringement.
  12. The _____ start is often used in relay races, where the next runner is handed the baton. (a) standing (b) rolling (c) crouch (d) long-distance.
  13. The ______ procedure must be followed before the race starts to ensure fairness. (a) judging (b) race (c) lane (d) start.
  14. _____ is a primary role of the officials in track events. (a) judging (b) cheering (c) waving (d) waiting.
  15. The ____ method of start requires the athlete to stand still before the signal is given. (a) rolling (b) crouch (c) standing (d) false.

Evaluation Questions (15 FAQs with Answers)

  1. What is the crouch start, and when is it used?
    • The crouch start involves starting from a low position with the hands on the track. It is used for sprints like the 100m, 200m, and 400m.
  2. Why is it important to stay in your lane during a race?
    • Staying in your lane ensures fairness, as crossing into another lane can interfere with other athletes, leading to disqualification.
  3. What happens if an athlete commits a false start?
    • The athlete is disqualified after one false start.
  4. Who is responsible for ensuring the race starts correctly?
    • The starting official ensures all athletes are properly positioned and signals the start of the race.
  5. What is the role of the timekeeper in track events?
    • The timekeeper records the time of each athlete’s performance.
  6. What is a false start, and how is it penalized?
    • A false start occurs when an athlete moves before the signal. The athlete is usually disqualified after one false start.
  7. What are the basic rules regarding the finish line?
    • The race is over when the athlete crosses the finish line with their chest or body, and the result is recorded.
  8. Why is the rolling start used in relay races?
    • The rolling start allows the runner to begin moving as the baton is passed to them, making the handoff smoother.
  9. How does the starting official signal the start of a race?
    • The starting official signals the start by using a whistle or a pistol.
  10. What is the purpose of a lane infringement rule?
  • It ensures that each athlete has their own space during the race to avoid unfair advantage or interference.
  1. What happens if an athlete violates the rules during a race?
  • The athlete may be disqualified or penalized, depending on the severity of the violation.
  1. What materials are typically used to construct a track?
  • Tracks are made from synthetic rubber or polyurethane to provide a smooth surface for athletes.
  1. How do officials ensure fairness in track events?
  • Officials follow strict procedures, such as monitoring the start, ensuring athletes stay in their lanes, and timing races accurately.
  1. What are some examples of track events where a crouch start is used?
  • Short-distance races like the 100m and 200m use the crouch start.
  1. Why is it important for athletes to follow the rules in track events?
  • Following the rules ensures fairness, safety, and integrity of the competition.

Conclusion

Summarize the starting methods for track races, the rules and regulations that govern track events, and the basic officiating duties. Reinforce the importance of understanding these concepts to ensure fairness, safety, and smooth operation of track competitions. Encourage students to practice the correct techniques and to familiarize themselves with officiating duties for future events.