Mixed Relay Pentathlon: One Specialist per Event

Mixed teams of five split up five events (long jump, high jump with an elastic cord, foam javelin, medicine ball shot and soft discus) and each member competes in one. Points come from team improvement, not just the best mark.

How to play

1. Form balanced mixed teams and split events within each team, each student picking the event they prefer (4 min).
2. Each specialist takes a baseline attempt at their station, measured by a teammate (8 min).
3. 'Coach' time: the team rotates through teammates' stations to give each one a technique tip (8 min).
4. Competition round: two attempts per specialist, judged by other teams (12 min).
5. Scoring: every improvement over the baseline earns team points (5 min).
6. Recognition for every team and a chat about the help they got (3 min).

Rules

• Each station has its own routine: in throws, nobody enters the sector before the signal.
• Judges use the same tape and record without arguing; the teacher settles disputes.
• Cheer for every team, including rivals.
• Medicine ball weight is chosen individually, with no comments from others.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair user: can be the throws specialist, seated, with their own baseline.
• Visual impairment: chooses long jump or shot with sound cues and a support partner at the station.
• Low confidence: scoring by improvement avoids comparing raw marks.

Learning goals

• Cooperate in a team toward a shared result.
• Apply basic technique in one track and field event.
• Value improvement over raw results.

Equipment for a class of 25

• foam javelins: 6
• medicine balls: 6
• soft flying discs: 6
• elastic cords: 1
• high jump stands: 2
• mats: 6
• cones: 25
• measuring tape: 5
• score sheets: 6

Teacher tip

Set up all five stations before class and post a sign with the safety routine at each one. Scoring by improvement keeps teams from only wanting the kids who already throw far.

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