Lesson 3 - Baton Skills & Invasion
Playful Object Control Skills
•Reception
•Manipulation & Coordination
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How can we use tools like batons to control objects and work as a team?
Learning Objectives
- Use a baton to hit and push a variety of objects in different ways
- Play simple invasion games using a baton to score and save goals
- Demonstrate understanding of opposition and teamwork in games
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully manipulate objects using a baton with increasing control
- Students will participate confidently in simple invasion games
- Students will understand basic game concepts like opposition and scoring
Equipment & Resources Required
Pre-made batons distributed at start of lesson
Alternative: Pool noodles, cardboard tubes, small hockey sticks
Inflated and ready for Activity 1
Alternative: Large soft balls, beach balls
Various sizes for different activities
Alternative: Bean bags, foam balls
Set up around activity area
Alternative: Plastic bottles, cones stacked
For boundaries, goals, and obstacles
Alternative: Markers, spots
For invasion game activities
Alternative: Soft balls, foam blocks
For warm-up signal changes
Alternative: Coloured card, flag
Key Vocabulary
A tool used to hit or push objects, like a hockey stick or cricket bat
The other team or player you are playing against
Using the baton to move an object by pressing against it
Using the baton to strike an object to make it move
A game where teams try to get into the other team's area to score
To get a point by getting the ball into the goal or target
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic hand-eye coordination skills
- Understanding of simple game rules
- Experience following movement instructions
Current Skills
- Using tools to manipulate objects
- Developing striking and pushing techniques
- Understanding opposition in games
Next Steps
- More complex striking patterns
- Advanced invasion game tactics
- Using different implements and equipment
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always maintain baton safety rules - two hands, below shoulders
- Focus on control and accuracy rather than power
- Encourage cooperation and turn-taking throughout
- Connect skills to real sports to increase engagement
- Celebrate effort and improvement, not just success
- Use simple, clear language appropriate for Reception age
- Build confidence through progressive skill development
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking batons should be swung like swords - teach controlled, purposeful movements
- Believing hitting harder is always better - emphasise control and accuracy
- Confusion about which goal to attack in invasion games - use clear visual markers
- Assuming all sports use tools the same way - explore different techniques
- Thinking they can't do it if it's difficult at first - reinforce growth mindset
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear movement boundaries, frequent positive reinforcement, designated roles in games
dyspraxia
- Larger, lighter equipment where possible, break skills into smaller steps, extra practice time, simplified game rules
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed, consistent routines and familiar equipment
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured batons and balls, provide clear verbal descriptions of all activities, buddy system for navigation
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals alongside verbal instructions, demonstrate all movements clearly, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Provide seated version of baton activities, adapted grips for limited mobility, modified distances and targets
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Developing vocabulary related to sports and movement, following and giving instructions, describing actions and techniques
Maths
Counting scores in games, understanding number bonds through number calling games, spatial awareness with directions and positioning
Science
Understanding forces through pushing and hitting objects, exploring cause and effect with ball movement, discussing materials used in baton construction
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, taking turns and sharing, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' achievements
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter during activities for maximum visibility, central position during instruction phases
Observation Focus
Watch for proper baton grip, safety awareness, cooperation skills, and skill progression
Intervention Points
Step in immediately for safety issues, provide encouragement for struggling students, extend challenges for advanced learners
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate with safety in mind, use enthusiastic but controlled movements, involve students in demonstrations where appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Two hands on your baton!'
- •'Gentle control, not hard hitting!'
- •'Check your space!'
- •'Beautiful teamwork!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 15m indoor space or equivalent outdoor area, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, dry and even, free from debris or hazardous objects
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all batons are securely taped and have no sharp edges
- •Balloons checked for potential choking hazards
- •Soft balls appropriate for age group
- •Cones stable and not sharp
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Baton striking another person
- •Collisions during game activities
- •Tripping over equipment
- •Balloon bursting incidents
Risk Mitigation
- •Establish and enforce baton safety rules (below shoulder height, two hands)
- •Ensure adequate spacing during all activities
- •Clear boundaries for games and activities
- •Adult supervision focused on higher-risk moments
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during skill practice
- •Close monitoring during invasion game for collisions
- •Watch for students becoming over-excited
- •Check equipment regularly for damage
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, remove any damaged equipment