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Lesson 4 - Underarm Throw Techniques

Object Control & Coordination

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Year 1

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Ball Skills

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use different throwing techniques to send objects accurately to different targets?

Learning Objectives

To develop underarm and overarm throwing techniques with opposite leg forward
To understand when to use different throwing techniques based on distance and accuracy needs
To demonstrate increasing control and accuracy in throwing activities

Key Outcomes

Students will throw underarm with correct foot positioning and timing
Students will throw overarm from sideways position with elbow high
Students will choose appropriate throwing technique based on target distance

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls

1 per student (30)

Distributed in baskets around activity areas

Alternative: Small soft balls, tennis balls

Hoops

1 per pair (15)

Various sizes available for differentiation

Alternative: Large targets, buckets

Cones

20-30

Used for marking throwing positions and boundaries

Alternative: Markers, spots

Game Balls

30-40

Soft balls for safety in group games

Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags

Key Vocabulary

Underarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm swings below waist level with an upward release

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm comes over the shoulder with the elbow high

Opposite leg

The leg that is different from your throwing arm - left leg for right-handed throwers

Sideways position

Standing with your side towards the target, not facing it directly

Accuracy

The ability to hit your intended target consistently

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic object handling and grip
Simple throwing movements without specific technique
Understanding of taking turns and following instructions

Current Skills

Underarm throwing with opposite leg forward
Overarm throwing from sideways position
Decision-making about throwing techniques

Next Steps

Throwing at moving targets
Combining throwing with catching skills
Using throwing in small-sided games

Milestone Indicators

Consistent opposite leg positioning

Smooth arm swing in underarm throw

High elbow position in overarm throw

Appropriate technique selection for distance

Key Teaching Points

Opposite leg forward to throwing hand is crucial for both techniques
Underarm throw uses smooth pendulum motion with release at front leg level
Overarm throw requires sideways position with high elbow throughout
Technique selection depends on distance and accuracy requirements
Safety first - controlled throwing with soft equipment only
Cooperation and teamwork are as important as individual skill development
Celebrate effort and improvement, not just natural ability

Common Misconceptions

Thinking stronger throwing is always better - emphasise accuracy and technique over power
Believing one throwing technique works for all situations - teach appropriate selection
Assuming same-side leg stepping is correct - consistently reinforce opposite leg rule
Expecting immediate success - emphasise that learning takes practice and patience

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries, frequent positive feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Larger, easier-to-grip equipment, reduced complexity initially, extra practice time, step-by-step breakdowns

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured beanbags, provide verbal cues for positioning, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for technique cues, written instruction cards

physical disability

Seated throwing versions, modified distances, adapted grip techniques, lightweight equipment

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting successful throws, measuring distances, understanding angles in throwing

Science

Forces and motion in throwing, understanding trajectory and gravity effects

Geography

Directional language, understanding of space and distance

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, perseverance when learning new skills, celebrating others' success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand where you can see all pairs during throwing practice, move around during games

Observation Focus

Watch for opposite leg stepping, high elbow position, and safe throwing direction

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with leg positioning or if safety concerns arise

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate from both front and side angles, exaggerate key positions, check individual positioning frequently

Verbal Cues

•'Opposite leg forward!'
•'High elbow like showing muscles!'
•'Smooth pendulum swing!'
•'Choose your technique!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 10m for throwing activities, additional space for games

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles, adequate ceiling height for overarm throws

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Soft beanbags and sponge balls only
•Check hoops have no sharp edges or cracks
•Ensure adequate supply to avoid sharing during throws

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Being hit by thrown objects
•Collisions during collection phases
•Overextension during overarm throws

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing directions established
•Safe collection procedures taught and practiced
•Adequate spacing between pairs maintained
•Soft equipment used throughout

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all throwing activities
•Monitor collection phases carefully
•Watch for technique that might cause strain

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, remove hazards