Note for teachers using this lesson plan
This lesson introduces Primary 1 pupils to the shuttle run. Ensure the activity space is clear and safe, and that pupils wear appropriate footwear. Emphasise safe turning and controlled movement. By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to perform a basic shuttle run between two designated points, demonstrating correct technique and safety.
Class: Primary 1
Term: First Term
Week: 10
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:
- Performing shuttle run
Previous Lesson: 50-metre dash
Topic: Running: Shuttle Run
Subject Matter: Running between objects in shuttle run
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
Cognitive Domain
- Define a shuttle run.
- Identify the start and turning points in a shuttle run.
Affective Domain
- Show enthusiasm for participating in shuttle run activities.
- Follow safety instructions during the shuttle run.
Psychomotor Domain
- Run between objects in a shuttle run correctly.
- Demonstrate safe changing of direction at turning points.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 2025 Revised 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Relevant State Unified Scheme of Work
- Physical and Health Education for Primary 1 Textbook
- 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
Rationale for the Lesson
Learning the shuttle run helps pupils develop fundamental motor skills like agility, speed, and coordination. It teaches them how to change direction safely and efficiently, which is important for many sports and daily physical activities. This lesson provides a foundation for more complex athletic movements and promotes overall physical fitness.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils have prior knowledge of basic running and can follow simple instructions for physical activities.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
Running: Shuttle Run
Meaning of Shuttle Run
A shuttle run is a type of running exercise where a person runs back and forth between two marked points. It helps to improve speed and how quickly one can change direction.
Key Elements of a Shuttle Run
- Start and Turning Points: Two points are marked on the ground, usually with cones or other safe objects. One is the start line, and the other is the turning point.
- Running Quickly: The goal is to run as fast as possible from the start to the turning point and back to the start.
- Bending or Touching at the Turn: When reaching the turning point, you must bend down and touch the ground or an object, or pick up an object, as instructed. This shows you have reached the point.
- Safe Change of Direction: It is important to slow down a little before the turning point, change direction carefully, and then speed up again. This prevents falling or injury.
How to Perform a Simple Shuttle Run
To do a shuttle run, follow these steps:
- Stand at the start line.
- When the teacher says “Go” or blows a whistle, run quickly to the turning point.
- At the turning point, bend down and touch the ground or the marker.
- Turn around safely and run back quickly to the start line.
- Cross the start line to finish one run.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Discussion, Demonstration, Guided Practice, Question and Answer, Explanation, Observation, Practical Activity
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Engaging/Activating Prior Knowledge
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them about different ways they can run (e.g., fast, slow, in a straight line). The teacher introduces the idea of running back and forth.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the teacher’s questions and share their ideas about running.
Learning Point: Introduction to running
Step 2: Explanation of Shuttle Run
Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Definition
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what a shuttle run is, using simple language. “A shuttle run is when you run fast from one spot to another spot, touch it, and then run back to the first spot.” The teacher also explains the importance of the start and turning points.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively and ask questions for clarity.
Learning Point: Shuttle run meaning
Step 3: Demonstration
Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Modelling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher sets up two safe markers (cones) and clearly demonstrates a shuttle run, showing how to run quickly, bend down, touch the marker, turn safely, and run back. The teacher emphasizes safety during the demonstration.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the teacher’s demonstration carefully, paying attention to the technique and safety.
Learning Point: Shuttle run demonstration
Step 4: Guided Practice – Start and Turning Points
Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Practice/Correction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils to practice running to the turning point, bending/touching, and changing direction safely, without focusing on speed yet. The teacher provides immediate feedback and corrects any unsafe movements.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils practice running to the turning point, touching the marker, and turning around safely in turns.
Learning Point: Safe turning practice
Step 5: Guided Practice – Full Shuttle Run
Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Practice/Application
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher now guides pupils to perform the full shuttle run, running quickly between the two markers, touching at the turn, and running back. The teacher encourages them to increase their speed while maintaining safety.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils perform the full shuttle run in turns, focusing on control and safe turning as demonstrated.
Learning Point: Shuttle run practice
Step 6: Reinforcement
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Reinforcement/Review
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher reviews the key aspects of a shuttle run, emphasizing the importance of running fast, touching the marker, and changing direction safely. The teacher praises pupils for their effort and good technique.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the review and ask any remaining questions.
Learning Point: Shuttle run safety
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 a shuttle run?
- What do you do when you reach the turning point?
- Why is it important to change direction safely?
- Demonstrate a simple shuttle run.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.
Learning Point: Shuttle run understanding
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 and key elements of a shuttle run into their notebooks.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils copy the notes carefully into their notebooks.
Learning Point: Notes on shuttle run
Step 9: Conclusion
Time: 1 minute
Teaching Skill: Summarising
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher briefly reminds pupils that the shuttle run helps them to be fast and agile, and encourages them to practice safely at home if they have space. The teacher ends the lesson.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and prepare for the next activity.
Learning Point: Shuttle run importance
Continuous Assessment/Further Study
Type: Practice Exercise
Instruction: Practice the shuttle run at home in a safe, open space. Ask an adult to watch you.
- Set up two safe markers about 5-10 big steps apart.
- Practice running between the markers, touching the ground at each turn.
- Focus on changing direction without falling.
Lesson Keywords
- Shuttle Run – running back and forth between two points.
- Markers – objects used to show the start and turning points.
- Turning Point – the spot where you change direction in a shuttle run.
- Agility – the ability to move quickly and easily.
- Speed – how fast you can run.
Differentiation
For weaker learners, start with a shorter distance between markers and allow them to walk or jog slowly, focusing only on safe turning. Gradually increase distance and speed. For faster learners, increase the distance between markers or add an extra task at the turning point, such as picking up a small object before returning.
Suggested Lesson Videos
Search YouTube for: “Primary 1 shuttle run for kids” or “how to do shuttle run for children”
Teacher Guide for Using This Lesson Plan
Before the lesson, ensure the activity area is completely clear of obstacles and safe for running. Have your cones or markers ready. Begin by engaging pupils with a brief discussion about running to activate their prior knowledge. Clearly demonstrate the shuttle run, emphasizing each step: starting, running quickly, bending/touching at the turn, and safe change of direction. Allow ample time for guided practice, first focusing on the turning technique and then on the full run. Provide positive reinforcement and correct errors gently. During the note-taking step (Step 8), ensure pupils copy the Board Summary accurately. Throughout the lesson, prioritize safety and encourage all pupils to participate enthusiastically. Check for understanding by observing their movements and asking simple questions.

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