Short Approach Long Jump into Scoring Zones
A modified long jump with a 7 to 9 step approach and a wide takeoff zone instead of a board, scored by the landing zone in the pit. Students work on the approach run, a one-foot takeoff and landing with feet out in front, while the whole group takes on roles.
How to play
- Chalk an 80 cm takeoff zone in front of the pit and mark 5 zones in the sand worth 1 to 5 points (3 min).
- Explain the jump: building approach, one-foot takeoff inside the zone, and landing with feet out front (2 min).
- Each student measures an approach: from the takeoff zone, count 7 to 9 steps back and place a cone (4 min).
- Groups of 5 with rotating roles: jumper, takeoff judge, landing judge and two rakers (1 min).
- Three jumps each: record the zone of the mark closest to the takeoff; a takeoff outside the zone scores 0 and is retaken at the end (8 min).
- The group adds each member's best jump and talks about what helped most: approach, takeoff or landing (2 min).
Rules
- No jumping until the sand is raked and the pit is clear.
- Rakes always lie teeth down and off the runway.
- Leave the pit at the sides or the far end, never back toward the takeoff.
Variations
Easier
Shorten the approach to 4 or 5 steps and widen the takeoff zone to one meter.
Standard
A 7 to 9 step approach, takeoff in an 80-centimeter zone and landing scored by zones.
Harder
Shrink the takeoff zone to 40 centimeters and ask for a landing with legs together and extended.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student does a standing jump or tosses a beanbag into the pit from the takeoff zone, using the same point zones.
- Visual impairment: a partner claps next to the takeoff zone to guide the approach, and the runway is lined with tall cones.
- Lower fitness: the student uses a 5-step approach and takes only two jumps.
Learning goals
- Adjust the approach to take off on one foot inside the zone.
- Land with feet forward without losing distance backward.
- Take on judging and helper roles responsibly.
Equipment for a class of 25
- sand pit: 1
- rakes: 2
- cones: 25
- chalk: 2
Teacher tip
Check the sand before class for hidden objects and turn it over so it is loose. If there is no sand pit, switch to standing jumps onto mats, never with a running approach.
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