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Lesson 6 - Catching and Signalling

Core Skills Through Play

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Year 1

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Fundamental Movement Skills

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45 min

Big Question

How can we become catching champions by making ourselves good targets and using gentle hands?

Learning Objectives

To catch a ball consistently using correct technique
To signal effectively to indicate readiness to receive a ball
To understand how to cushion impact when catching

Key Outcomes

Students will catch balls consistently from 2+ metres
Students will demonstrate clear signalling for receiving passes
Students will show sporting values through encouragement and fair play

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls

1 per pair (15)

Distributed around activity area

Alternative: Tennis balls, small soft balls

Coloured Cones

30 (6 per group of 5)

Bright colours for easy identification

Alternative: Markers, spots, hoops

Relay Baton

Lightweight and easy to grip

Alternative: Bean bags, small cones

Key Vocabulary

Target

A clear signal showing your partner where to throw the ball

Cushion

Using soft, relaxed hands to absorb the ball's impact gently

Signal

A clear indication that you are ready to receive the ball

Reaction

How quickly you respond to catch a moving ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Can catch a large ball with both hands
Understands basic throwing technique
Can follow simple instructions in PE

Current Skills

Catching with consistent technique
Non-verbal communication through signalling
Understanding of cushioning impact

Next Steps

Catching while moving
Throwing accurately over longer distances
Game application of catching skills

Milestone Indicators

Catches 8 out of 10 throws from partner

Clearly signals readiness before each catch

Demonstrates soft hands technique consistently

Key Teaching Points

Eyes must track the ball throughout its entire flight path
Soft, relaxed hands cushion the ball's impact for secure catching
Clear target-making helps partners throw accurately
Signalling readiness prevents mistimed throws
Stepping back/forward system provides natural progression
Sporting values include encouragement and patience with partners
Movement and communication are essential in game situations

Common Misconceptions

Students think catching is only about hand strength rather than technique
Belief that looking away at the last second protects from ball impact
Assumption that harder throws are better throws
Thinking that catching is purely individual rather than partnership skill
Misconception that successful catchers don't need to practice fundamentals

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Larger equipment, reduced complexity in games, extra practice time and encouragement

autism spectrum

Clear routines, visual schedule of activities, quiet reflection zone available

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls, verbal cues for ball location, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for ready position, written instruction cards

physical disability

Seated catching variations, larger/softer balls, adapted throwing distances

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting passes and catches, measuring distances in metres, understanding shapes in cone formations

Science

Forces and motion in ball flight, reaction times and nervous system responses

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness, understanding distance and positioning

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, building confidence, supporting others and good sportsmanship

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all pairs/groups, position for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct catching technique, partner communication, and safe movement

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with basic technique or showing unsafe behaviour

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements when demonstrating, involve student volunteers to show correct technique

Verbal Cues

•'Soft hands like catching an egg!'
•'Eyes on the ball all the way!'
•'Make a clear target for your partner!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m clear space, indoor hall or outdoor playground

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from water or debris, adequate grip for quick movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check balls are properly inflated and clean
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Bean bags intact with no loose filling

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during movement games
•Ball strikes to face or body
•Slips during quick directional changes

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and safe spacing established
•Controlled throwing speeds appropriate for age
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all groups simultaneously
•Move around space to monitor technique and safety
•Intervene quickly if unsafe behaviour observed

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or seek medical assistance