Note for teachers using this lesson plan
This lesson focuses on introducing Primary 1 pupils to the 50-metre dash, emphasizing correct technique and safety. Teachers should ensure a clear, safe running space is available and guide pupils through warm-up exercises before any running activity. By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to demonstrate the basic technique for a short dash and understand the importance of safety.
Class: Primary One
Term: First Term
Week: 9
Age: 6 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Physical and Health Education
Curriculum Theme: Athletics
Focal competence: Demonstrating agility, speed, strength and endurance while running a 50-metre dash
Skills:
- Running 50 metre dash
Previous Lesson: Safety precautions during body movements
Topic: Running (50-Metre Dash)
Subject Matter: 50-metre dash
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
Cognitive Domain
- Identify the correct starting position for a short dash.
- State the importance of safety during running activities.
Affective Domain
- Appreciate the need for warm-up exercises before running.
- Show enjoyment in participating in running activities.
Psychomotor Domain
- Perform a short warm-up before running.
- Demonstrate the correct arm and leg action for sprinting.
- Run a short distance (e.g., 50 metres) in a straight lane.
- Finish through the line correctly.
Social Domain
- Participate cooperatively in group running activities.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 2025 Revised 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Relevant State Unified Scheme of Work
- The HeadTeacher Scheme of work
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Cones or safe markers
- Whistle where appropriate
- Open safe activity space
- Appropriate sportswear
- Demonstration by the teacher
Rationale for the Lesson
This lesson is important because it introduces pupils to fundamental athletic skills, specifically sprinting. Learning the 50-metre dash helps develop their speed, agility, and coordination. It also instills an understanding of safety precautions during physical exercise, promoting healthy habits from a young age.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils have basic knowledge of simple running and can follow instructions for physical activities.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
Running (50-Metre Dash)
Meaning of Sprinting
Sprinting is running a short distance very fast. It is also called a short dash.
Starting Position for a Short Dash
To start a short dash, follow these steps:
- Stand behind the starting line.
- Place your strong foot forward, with your toes just behind the line.
- Bend your front knee slightly.
- Place your other foot a little behind, with your heel lifted.
- Lean forward a little.
- Get ready to push off quickly when the signal is given.
Running in a Straight Lane or Marked Path
When running a dash, it is important to:
- Stay in your own marked path or lane.
- Run straight without moving from side to side.
- Focus on the finish line.
Arm and Leg Action
During a sprint, your arms and legs work together:
- Leg Action: Lift your knees high and push off the ground strongly with each step.
- Arm Action: Swing your arms forward and backward strongly, keeping your elbows bent at about 90 degrees. Your arms should move in rhythm with your legs.
Finishing Through the Line
To finish a dash correctly:
- Do not slow down before you reach the finish line.
- Run through the finish line as if you are running past it.
- You can lean your chest forward slightly at the very end to cross the line faster.
Safety During a 50-Metre Dash
Safety is very important when running. Always remember to:
- Do warm-up exercises before running to prepare your body.
- Run in a clear, safe area free from obstacles.
- Wear appropriate sportswear and comfortable shoes.
- Listen to the teacher’s instructions carefully.
- Do not push or trip other runners.
- Cool down after running to help your body recover.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Demonstration, Explanation, Guided Practice, Question and Answer, Practical Activity
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Warm-up/Engagement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils, leads them in a simple warm-up (e.g., light jogging, arm circles, leg stretches) and introduces the topic of running a short dash.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils greet the teacher and participate actively in the warm-up exercises.
Learning Point: Importance of warm-up
Step 2: Meaning of Sprinting
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what sprinting (a short dash) means, using simple language and relating it to running very fast over a short distance.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Definition of sprinting
Step 3: Starting Position
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Guided Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the correct starting position for a short dash (strong foot forward, bent knee, leaning slightly). Pupils then practice this position individually.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration and practice the starting position.
Learning Point: Correct starting position
Step 4: Arm and Leg Action
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Guided Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the correct arm and leg action for sprinting (high knees, strong arm swing). Pupils practice these actions in place.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe and mimic the arm and leg actions.
Learning Point: Sprinting arm/leg action
Step 5: Running in a Straight Lane
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Instruction/Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the importance of running in a straight lane and sets up a short marked path using cones. Pupils then practice running short distances in the marked paths.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to instructions and practice running in a straight line.
Learning Point: Running in a straight path
Step 6: Finishing Through the Line and Safety
Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Emphasis
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates how to finish through the line without slowing down. The teacher also emphasizes all safety rules for running, such as not pushing, wearing proper attire, and cooling down.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the finishing technique and repeat the safety rules.
Learning Point: Finishing and safety rules
Step 7: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:
- What is sprinting?
- Show me the correct starting position for a short dash.
- Why is it important to warm up before running?
- What should you do when you reach the finish line?
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.
Learning Point: Understanding 50-metre dash concepts
Step 8: Note-Taking
Time: 4 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Writing
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils to copy the essential Board Summary notes on the meaning of sprinting, starting position, and safety into their notebooks.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils copy the notes carefully into their notebooks.
Learning Point: Recording lesson notes
Step 9: Conclusion
Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Reinforcement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher briefly summarizes the key points of the lesson, reminding pupils about the fun of running and the importance of safety. The teacher praises their participation.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and respond to the teacher’s summary.
Learning Point: Consolidation of running skills
Continuous Assessment/Further Study
Type: Practice Exercise
Instruction: Practice the following at home or during playtime:
- Practice your starting position for a short dash.
- With a parent or guardian, practice running a short distance in a straight line, remembering your arm and leg action.
- Always remember to warm up before running and cool down after.
Lesson Keywords
- Sprinting – Running a short distance very fast.
- Dash – Another name for a short sprint.
- Warm-up – Exercises done before physical activity to prepare the body.
- Finish line – The end point of a race.
- Safety – Being protected from harm or danger.
Differentiation
For weaker learners: Provide more individual demonstration and hands-on guidance for the starting position and arm/leg action. Use shorter distances for practice runs. Pair them with more confident pupils for support.
For faster learners: Challenge them to maintain their speed for slightly longer distances if space permits. Encourage them to demonstrate correct technique to their peers and help guide others.
Suggested Lesson Videos
For further visual learning, search on YouTube for: primary 1 sprinting technique for kids
Teacher Guide for Using This Lesson Plan
Before the lesson, ensure the activity area is clear, safe, and adequately marked with cones or other safe markers for running lanes. Have a whistle ready for starting and stopping signals. Begin by engaging pupils with a fun warm-up to prepare their bodies for activity, as this is a key objective. Demonstrate each part of the 50-metre dash technique (starting, arm/leg action, finishing) clearly and allow ample time for guided practice. Pay close attention to individual pupils, providing immediate feedback and correction. Emphasize safety rules throughout the practical activities. During Step 8, guide pupils to copy the essential points from the Board Summary into their notebooks to reinforce learning. Check for understanding by observing their practical performance and through the evaluation questions. Encourage all pupils to participate and celebrate their efforts.

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