🤝

Lesson 3 - Baton Skills & Invasion

Playful Object Control Skills

•

Reception

•

Manipulation & Coordination

•

45 min

Big Question

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

Batons

1 per student (30)

Pre-made batons distributed at start of lesson

Alternative: Pool noodles, cardboard tubes, small hockey sticks

Balloons

15 (1 per pair)

Inflated and ready for Activity 1

Alternative: Large soft balls, beach balls

Softballs

10-15

Various sizes for different activities

Alternative: Bean bags, foam balls

Bowling Pins

7 sets

Set up around activity area

Alternative: Plastic bottles, cones stacked

Cones

20-25

For boundaries, goals, and obstacles

Alternative: Markers, spots

Balls

2-3

For invasion game activities

Alternative: Soft balls, foam blocks

Coloured Cones

For warm-up signal changes

Alternative: Coloured card, flag

Key Vocabulary

Baton

A tool used to hit or push objects, like a hockey stick or cricket bat

Opposition

The other team or player you are playing against

Push

Using the baton to move an object by pressing against it

Hit

Using the baton to strike an object to make it move

Invasion Game

A game where teams try to get into the other team's area to score

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

Can control baton with both hands

Shows improvement in accuracy when hitting targets

Demonstrates understanding of game objectives

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