Lesson 5 - Catching and Underarm Throwing
Foundation Object Control and Body Awareness
•Reception
•Manipulation & Coordination
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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
Place in centre of activity area with space around edges
Alternative: Large bed sheet or multiple small parachutes
Different colours if possible for visual tracking
Alternative: Light bibs, tissue paper squares, bandanas
Medium-sized, soft and safe for children
Alternative: Soft play balls, bean bags
Bright colours for visibility on parachute
Alternative: Ribbons, rope segments, pool noodles
For Spiderman tag game identification
Alternative: Bean bags, soft balls
Create clear activity boundaries
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines
Key Vocabulary
Throwing with the hand below the shoulder, swinging the arm forward and up
Making a 'W' shape with both hands to create a target for catching
Taking a step forward with the opposite foot when throwing
Gathering up the scarf into a small ball shape before throwing
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
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