Basic relay skills start/take-off, running, arm action, baton exchange and finish for Primary 4

Class: Primary 4
Term: First Term
Week: 8
Age: 9 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Physical and Health Education
Curriculum Theme: Athletics
Focal competence: Running, passing the baton correctly and working cooperatively with team members
Key competencies/values: Communication; Collaboration; ICT and Digital Competencies
Skills:

• Start, take-off, arm action, baton exchange and finish in a relay race

Previous Lesson: Meaning of relay race and Types of relay races 4 × 100 m and 4 × 400 m
Topic: Relay Races: Skills And Techniques
Subject Matter: Basic relay skills

Specific Objectives

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

Cognitive Domain

• Describe the basic skills and techniques of relay races correctly.

Affective Domain

• Appreciate the importance of teamwork and cooperation in relay races.
• Demonstrate sportsmanship during practice.

Psychomotor Domain

• Perform the start and take-off for a relay race.
• Demonstrate correct running and arm action.
• Execute a safe baton exchange.
• Perform the finish technique in a relay race.

Social Domain

• Cooperate effectively with teammates during relay 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
• A suitable Physical and Health Education textbook for Primary 4
• The HeadTeacher Scheme of work

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

• Athletic track
• Sports wear
• Stop watch
• Measuring tape
• Finish line tape
• Batons (or improvised substitutes like small sticks)

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson introduces pupils to the fundamental skills of relay races, promoting physical fitness, coordination, and teamwork. Understanding these skills helps pupils participate safely and effectively in track and field events. It also fosters communication and collaboration among learners.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils have basic knowledge of running and understand the concept of a race. They can follow simple instructions and participate in group activities.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

Relay Races: Skills And Techniques

Basic Relay Skills

A relay race is a track and field event where members of a team run different sections of a race, passing a baton from one runner to the next. Success depends on good individual skills and effective teamwork.

1. Start/Take-off

The start is very important, especially for the first runner. A crouch start is often used. The runner places their hands behind the starting line, with one knee on the ground and the other leg bent forward. At the signal, they push off powerfully.

1. Get into a crouch position behind the starting line.
2. Place hands just behind the line, shoulder-width apart.
3. One knee on the ground, the other leg bent.
4. Push off strongly with both legs when the signal is given.

2. Running

Each runner must maintain good running form and speed throughout their leg of the race. They should stay in their lane and run at their maximum speed towards the next runner.

1. Run with a balanced posture, looking straight ahead.
2. Pump arms forward and backward, not across the body.
3. Maintain a consistent pace and speed.
4. Stay within the designated lane.

3. Arm Action

Correct arm action helps to balance the body and provide momentum during running. Arms should be bent at about a 90-degree angle and swing forward and backward, not side to side.

1. Bend elbows at a right angle.
2. Swing arms forward and backward in rhythm with the legs.
3. Keep hands loosely cupped, not clenched.

4. Baton Exchange

The baton exchange is a critical part of the relay race. It must be done smoothly and safely within a specific exchange zone. There are two main methods:

a. Non-Visual Exchange

Used in 4x100m relays. The receiver does not look back at the passer. The passer calls out a signal (e.g., “Hand!”) when close, and the receiver extends their hand backward without looking.

1. Receiver starts running before the passer arrives.
2. Passer calls out a signal.
3. Receiver extends an open hand backward.
4. Passer places the baton firmly into the receiver’s hand.

b. Visual Exchange

Often used in longer relays (e.g., 4x400m). The receiver watches the passer approach and takes the baton directly from them.

1. Receiver watches the incoming runner.
2. Both runners adjust speed for a smooth handover.
3. The baton is passed from hand to hand.

Safe Baton Handling

1. Hold the baton firmly but not too tightly.
2. Pass the baton smoothly to avoid dropping it.
3. Ensure the exchange happens within the marked exchange zone.

5. Finish

The last runner must run through the finish line with maximum effort. The race is officially over when the baton, held by the runner, crosses the finish line.

1. Run at full speed through the finish line.
2. Lean forward slightly at the chest to cross the line faster.
3. Do not slow down until well past the finish line.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Demonstration, Guided Practice, Question and Answer, Explanation, Observation, Practical Activity, Group Work

Instructional Procedures

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Explaining/Motivation

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them if they know what a relay race is. The teacher explains that a relay race is a team event where runners pass a stick called a baton to each other. The teacher then introduces the topic: Basic Relay Skills.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the teacher’s questions and listen attentively.

Learning Point: Introduction to relay races

Step 2: Start and Running Technique

Time: 8 minutes

Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Instruction

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the correct crouch start and take-off technique. The teacher also explains and demonstrates proper running form and arm action. Pupils are guided to practice these skills individually.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration and practice the crouch start, running form, and arm action.

Learning Point: Correct start and running

Step 3: Arm Action Practice

Time: 7 minutes

Teaching Skill: Guided Practice

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher further guides pupils on effective arm action while running. The teacher observes and corrects pupils’ arm swings, ensuring they are pumping forward and backward, not across their bodies.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils practice arm action drills, focusing on proper form and coordination.

Learning Point: Effective arm action

Step 4: Baton Exchange Demonstration

Time: 8 minutes

Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Explanation

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates safe baton exchange techniques, focusing on both non-visual (upsweep/downsweep) and visual methods using actual batons or improvised sticks. Emphasis is placed on calling out signals and smooth handover to avoid dropping the baton.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the teacher’s demonstration of baton exchange methods and safe handling.

Learning Point: Safe baton exchange

Step 5: Finishing Technique Demonstration

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Instruction

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the correct finishing technique, explaining how to run through the finish line and lean forward. The teacher sets up a finish line tape for visual aid.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the finishing technique and practice running through an imaginary finish line.

Learning Point: Proper finishing technique

Step 6: Relay Race Practice

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Group Facilitation

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher divides pupils into small groups and guides them to practise a short relay race, focusing on combining all the learned skills: start, running, baton exchange, and finish. The teacher provides feedback and encourages teamwork.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils participate in short relay race practice, applying all the skills learned.

Learning Point: Integrated relay practice

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

1. What are the basic skills needed for a relay race?
2. Describe how the first runner starts a relay race.
3. How should you hold and pass the baton safely?
4. What is important when finishing a relay race?

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Basic relay skills

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 basic relay skills into their notebooks.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils copy the notes carefully into their notebooks.

Learning Point: Relay skills notes

Step 9: Conclusion

Time: 3 minutes

Teaching Skill: Summarizing

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher briefly recaps the importance of mastering basic relay skills for successful team performance and encourages pupils to continue practicing. The teacher praises their effort and teamwork.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and acknowledge the summary.

Learning Point: Summary of relay skills

Continuous Assessment/Further Study

Type: Practice Exercise

Instruction: Practice the following relay skills at home or during break time with friends:

1. Practice the crouch start and powerful take-off.
2. Practice running with good arm action.
3. With a partner, practice passing a small stick (baton) smoothly without looking back.
4. Imagine a finish line and practice running through it at full speed.

Lesson Keywords

• Relay Race – A race where team members run different parts and pass a baton.
• Baton – A stick passed from one runner to another in a relay race.
• Crouch Start – A starting position used by runners with hands and one knee on the ground.
• Baton Exchange – The act of passing the baton between runners.
• Finish Line – The line that marks the end of a race.

Differentiation

Support for weaker learners: Provide extra demonstrations and one-on-one guidance for pupils struggling with specific skills like baton exchange. Allow them to practice in smaller, less competitive groups. Use larger, easier-to-grip batons if needed.

Extension for faster learners: Challenge faster learners to demonstrate the skills to their peers. Encourage them to observe and provide constructive feedback to teammates during practice. Introduce the concept of exchange zones and the importance of timing the handover.

Suggested Lesson Videos

For further understanding, search for “Basic Relay Race Skills for Kids” on YouTube.

Teacher Guide for Using This Lesson Plan

Before the lesson, ensure the athletic track or a suitable open space is clear and safe for physical activity. Gather all instructional materials, especially batons (or safe substitutes) and finish line tape. Begin with a warm-up to prepare pupils’ bodies for exercise. During the lesson, demonstrate each skill clearly and allow ample time for guided practice. Pay close attention to safety during baton exchange, ensuring pupils understand how to pass and receive without collision. Encourage teamwork and communication throughout the practical activities. Pupils should copy the Board Summary notes after the practical demonstrations and evaluation, around Step 8. Continuously check for understanding through observation and questioning, providing immediate feedback. For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, encourage them to assist others. For those finding it challenging, offer simplified tasks or more direct supervision.