Grade 5 Physical And Health Education Field Events – Standing Discus Notes
Standing Discus
Subject: Physical And Health Education — Topic: Field Events (Age 10, Kenya)
Standing discus is a simple, safe throw used in school games. The thrower stands in one place (no full spin) and sends the discus out using the arm, body turn and feet. It is good for beginners and for learning balance, coordination and power.
Learning goals
- Learn safe ways to hold and throw the discus.
- Develop good balance and body turn.
- Improve aim and distance little by little.
Equipment and place
- Discus: school discus (light plastic) or a safe flat object (no sharp edges).
- Throwing circle or marked spot on the field (use chalk or rope).
- Open, clear field with no people in the landing area.
- Measuring tape or rope to measure throws.
Warm-up (5–10 minutes)
- Easy jog around the field (2 minutes).
- Arm circles, shoulder swings, torso twists.
- Leg stretches and light skipping.
Basic steps (standing discus)
- Grip: Hold the discus with fingers around the edge, thumb on top for support. Keep it flat like a plate.
- Start position: Stand sideways to the throwing direction. Feet shoulder-width. Strong foot (right for right-handers) slightly behind.
- Wind-up: Bring the discus across your chest with the throwing arm bent. Keep the elbow up.
- Turn and push: Turn your shoulders toward the direction of the throw while pushing with the back foot. Use the hips and shoulders to add power.
- Release: Let the discus go with a flick of the wrist and fingers. Release it flat and smooth. Follow through with your arm pointing to the landing area.
- Recover: Stay balanced; do not step forward into the landing sector.
Coaching cues (short):
- “Grip the rim, not the plate.”
- “Turn the shoulders, push with the foot.”
- “Release flat, follow to the target.”
Simple SVG diagrams
Side view: feet and arm position
Release path: aim for sector
Safety rules (very important)
- Only one thrower in the circle or throwing spot at a time.
- Everyone else stands well behind the throwing line and outside the landing sector.
- Teacher or coach checks the field before every throw.
- Use a light school discus for children — no heavy or broken equipment.
Games and practice ideas
- Target rings on the ground: throw to land inside the rings for points.
- Measure improvement: mark best distance each week and try to beat it.
- Relay toss: small groups take turns throwing and collecting the discus safely.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Throwing too early: wait for the shoulder turn before releasing.
- Dropping the discus: keep fingers on the rim and release with the fingertips.
- Stepping into the sector: practise balance and push from the back foot, not stepping forward.
Cool-down (3–5 minutes)
- Walk slowly, deep breaths.
- Gentle arm and shoulder stretches.
Assessment ideas for teachers (simple)
- Check safety rules followed (yes/no).
- Observe technique: grip, shoulder turn, release (score 1–5).
- Measure distance and note improvement over time.
Tip for Kenyan schools: Use light plastic discus or modified flat discs made at school. Always practise on the school playing field when it is dry and clear of stones.