Newspaper Javelins: Build and Throw

Each pair builds their own javelin by rolling up newspaper with masking tape, then tests it in a distance contest with scoring zones. Students practice throwing point first, reusing materials, and comparing designs.

How to play

1. Form pairs and give each pair 4 double sheets of newspaper and a one-meter strip of masking tape (1 min).
2. Guided building: roll the sheets tightly on the diagonal into a tube about 80 cm (2.5 ft) long, tape it in three places, and fold over the tip to add weight (6 min).
3. Meanwhile, a team of helpers uses cones to mark 4 lanes with zones worth 1, 2, 3, and 4 points at 5, 8, 11, and 14 m (part of the building time).
4. Throwing demo: javelin over the shoulder with the tip slightly up, opposite foot forward, and full arm extension at release (2 min).
5. Contest: 4 teams of 6, made of three pairs, take turns throwing; each student throws 3 times and the team adds up the zone where the tip lands (10 min).
6. Design upgrade: each pair may add tape to the tip or shorten the tube, then throws twice more to compare (4 min).
7. Wrap-up: which javelin flew straightest and why? Keep the javelins for future lessons (2 min).

Rules

• Throw only from the line when the lane is clear and the teacher gives the signal.
• Everyone walks out to retrieve at the same time.
• Fold the tip over and cover it with tape so it is not hard or sharp.
• Never throw toward a classmate or outside your lane.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students with limited mobility: build and throw while seated, using their own closer throwing line.
• Autism or shyness: provide a picture card with the building steps and pair them with a trusted partner.
• Fitness or skill level: skilled throwers compare their distance with a foam javelin; students who need support get a tube that is already started.

Learning goals

• Throw a javelin point first with the arm fully extended.
• Build sports equipment from recycled materials.
• Connect an object's design to how it flies.

Equipment for a class of 25

• newspaper: 50
• masking tape: 4
• cones: 20

Teacher tip

Have sample javelins ready for anyone who gets stuck. If they fly sideways, the tip usually needs more tape.

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