Grade 6 Physical And Health Education Field Events – Standing Javelin Notes
Field Events — Standing Javelin
Subject: Physical and Health Education | Target age: 11 years (Kenya)
Learning outcomes
- Understand and follow safety rules for javelin throwing.
- Show correct grip, stance and standing throw technique.
- Improve aim, balance and coordination.
- Measure and record simple throws (distance in metres).
Equipment (Kenyan school-friendly)
- One light javelin per pair (foam or youth javelin recommended).
- Tape measure or marked field, cones to mark throw sector.
- A clear grassy area on the school field and first aid kit.
Note: Many schools use foam or rubber javelins for safety. If no javelin, use a soft pole or light stick rounded at the tip.
Safety rules (must follow!)
- Only one thrower in the throwing area at a time.
- Everyone stands behind the thrower and clear of the landing sector.
- Do not run with the javelin; carry it pointing down or horizontally.
- Collect javelins only after the teacher says it is safe to do so.
- Warm up before throwing (arms, shoulders, legs).
Standing javelin technique — simple steps
Use these steps for the standing throw (no run-up). Practice slowly at first.
1. Grip
Hold the javelin near the cord or centre with three fingers over the cord and the thumb under. Keep a relaxed but firm grip.
2. Stance
Stand sideways to the throwing direction with your non-throwing shoulder pointing to the target. Feet shoulder-width apart. Weight mostly on the back foot.
3. Preparation
Raise the javelin above your shoulder, elbow bent. Keep eyes on the target and body relaxed.
4. Throw and follow-through
Step forward slightly with the front foot, push from the back leg, rotate hips and shoulders, and extend the throwing arm to release. Follow through with the arm across the body. Aim to release at about 30–45° above the horizontal.
Quick diagram
Common mistakes
- Throwing too early before the hips turn — reduces distance.
- Gripping too tightly — causes poor release.
- Throwing across the body instead of forward — unsafe and inaccurate.
- Not following through — less power and poor balance.
Simple drills and games
- Shadow throw (no javelin): practice stance and hip rotation.
- Target throw: place a cone or circle on the field and try to land the javelin close to it.
- Pair practice: one throws while partner retrieves and measures (teacher supervises).
- Distance challenge: see who can improve their best standing throw over 4 tries.
Assessment ideas (for teacher)
- Observe safety: did the pupil follow safety rules? (Yes/No)
- Technique score: grip, stance, hip turn, follow-through (scale 1–4).
- Distance: record best of three throws and check improvement over time.
- Peer feedback: classmates say one thing done well and one tip for improvement.
Teacher tips and values
- Use short, clear instructions and show one step at a time.
- Encourage fair play and help pupils check each other's safety.
- Praise effort and improvement, not only long throws.
- Relate to local sports: discuss how javelin skills help in throwing accuracy for other games.
Quick checklist before class
Warm-up done • Equipment ready • Throwing area clear • First aid available • Students know safety rules