🤝

Lesson 5 - Catching and Underarm Throwing

Foundation Object Control and Body Awareness

•

Reception

•

Manipulation & Coordination

•

45 min

Big Question

How can we use our hands and eyes together to catch and throw accurately?

Learning Objectives

To catch an object consistently using correct hand positioning
To throw underarm accurately for a partner to catch
To demonstrate good teamwork and encouragement during partner activities

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to catch a scarf/light object using the 'W' hand position
Students will throw underarm with stepping action for partner to catch
Students will show encouragement and celebrate others' success

Equipment & Resources Required

Parachutes

Place in centre of activity area with space around edges

Alternative: Large bed sheet or multiple small parachutes

Scarves

15 (1 per child)

Different colours if possible for visual tracking

Alternative: Light bibs, tissue paper squares, bandanas

Flag Footballs

3-4

Medium-sized, soft and safe for children

Alternative: Soft play balls, bean bags

Ropes

3-4

Bright colours for visibility on parachute

Alternative: Ribbons, rope segments, pool noodles

Coloured Bibs

For Spiderman tag game identification

Alternative: Bean bags, soft balls

Cones

8-10

Create clear activity boundaries

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines

Key Vocabulary

Underarm throw

Throwing with the hand below the shoulder, swinging the arm forward and up

W hand shape

Making a 'W' shape with both hands to create a target for catching

Step and throw

Taking a step forward with the opposite foot when throwing

Scrunch

Gathering up the scarf into a small ball shape before throwing

Track

Following the object with your eyes as it moves through the air

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of throwing and catching concepts
Experience with large ball handling
Ability to work in pairs safely

Current Skills

Catching light objects with correct hand positioning
Underarm throwing with stepping action
Partner cooperation and communication

Next Steps

Catching moving objects while travelling
Throwing to targets at different heights
Small ball catching and throwing skills

Milestone Indicators

Consistent 'W' hand position when catching

Natural stepping action when throwing

Positive encouragement of others

Key Teaching Points

Always demonstrate the 'W' hand position clearly and check understanding
Emphasise stepping forward with opposite foot when throwing underarm
Encourage eye tracking throughout object flight
Focus on gentle, controlled throwing rather than power
Celebrate cooperation and encouragement between partners
Use positive reinforcement for effort and improvement
Maintain safe spacing during all activities

Common Misconceptions

Children thinking harder throws are better - emphasise accuracy over power
Believing catching is just about hands - stress importance of eye tracking
Assuming same-side foot should step when throwing - demonstrate opposite foot stepping
Thinking unsuccessful catches mean failure - promote learning from attempts
Believing physical skills are most important - emphasise teamwork and attitude equally

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, simple rule repetition

dyspraxia

Larger, slower-moving objects, extra practice time, step-by-step instruction breakdown, peer buddy support

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual activity schedule, quiet space available if needed, predictable partner pairings

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured or textured scarves, provide audio cues for timing, partner support for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and demonstrations, clear visual boundaries, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Seated catching options, shorter throwing distances, adapted equipment like larger scarves or bean bags

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting catches in sequence, measuring throwing distances, understanding spatial concepts like near/far

Science

Understanding forces in throwing, exploring gravity as scarves fall, observing cause and effect in movement

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, celebrating others' achievements, building confidence and resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the teaching area during practice to observe and support individuals, central position for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for 'W' hand formation, stepping action in throwing, eye tracking of objects, partner cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in if throwing becomes too forceful, support struggling individuals, ensure fair partner interactions

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clear visibility, involve children in demonstrations, repeat key teaching points multiple times

Verbal Cues

•'Make a lovely W!'
•'Step with your opposite foot!'
•'Eyes on the scarf!'
•'Soft, gentle throws!'
•'Encourage your partner!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m clear space, suitable for parachute activities and partner work

Surface Check

Non-slip indoor surface or dry outdoor area free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check parachute for tears or damaged handles
•Ensure scarves are appropriate weight and not torn
•Verify foam balls are soft and appropriate size
•Check jump ropes for fraying or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during parachute activities
•Tripping over equipment or other children
•Over-vigourous throwing causing injury
•Children getting tangled under parachute

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing guidelines for all activities
•Emphasis on controlled movements throughout
•Adult supervision during parachute activities
•Safe throwing technique reinforcement

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all participants during parachute games
•Move around during partner work to monitor interactions
•Watch for appropriate throwing force during tag games

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, contact emergency services if required