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Big Question

How can we throw with power and accuracy whilst keeping our eyes on the ball at all times?

Learning Objectives

  • To develop throwing accuracy and power using overarm technique
  • To maintain visual tracking of the ball during movement and play
  • To demonstrate understanding of game rules and accept decisions

Key Outcomes

  • Students will throw overarm with improved accuracy and power
  • Students will keep their eyes on the ball during all activities
  • Students will show good sportsmanship and rule understanding in games

Equipment & Resources Required

Softballs
12-15

Various sizes available for differentiation

Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls, foam balls

Cones
20

4 different coloured cones needed for assessment

Alternative: Markers, spots, bean bags

Sun Markers
20

To create net lines and boundaries

Alternative: Cones, chalk lines, tape

Digital Cameras
1

For assessment recording and evidence collection

Alternative: Smartphone, video camera

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

Throwing technique where the arm goes over the shoulder in a high arc motion

Accuracy

Throwing the ball precisely to the intended target or area

Power

The force and speed with which the ball is thrown

Eye tracking

Keeping your eyes focused on the ball at all times during play

Sportsmanship

Playing fairly, following rules, and respecting opponents and officials

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic throwing and catching skills
  • Understanding of simple game rules
  • Ability to follow multi-step instructions

Current Skills

  • Overarm throwing technique with accuracy and power
  • Continuous ball tracking whilst moving
  • Game understanding and rule acceptance

Next Steps

  • Advanced throwing techniques in game situations
  • Strategic movement and positioning
  • Leadership and officiating skills

Milestone Indicators

1
Consistent overarm throwing action
2
Eyes remain on ball during movement
3
Positive response to official decisions

Key Teaching Points

  • Overarm throwing technique with high arm action over shoulder
  • Continuous eye tracking of ball during all movement and activities
  • Positive acceptance of rule decisions and referee calls
  • Safe backward movement technique without turning back on play
  • Throwing accuracy for one-bounce catching with partner
  • Good sportsmanship and encouragement of teammates
  • Below head height throwing for safety in all games

Common Misconceptions

  • That underarm throwing is easier and therefore better - explain overarm gives more power and accuracy
  • That you can look away from the ball briefly without consequences - emphasise constant tracking
  • That arguing with decisions is acceptable - teach positive acceptance builds better games
  • That turning your back is faster for collecting balls - demonstrate safer backward movement
  • That throwing hard is the same as throwing with power - teach controlled power with accuracy

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Shorter activity segments, frequent movement breaks, clear physical boundaries marked
dyspraxia
  • Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, larger equipment for easier handling
autism spectrum
  • Clear visual schedule, consistent routines, quiet zones available for breaks if needed
visual impairment
  • Use bright coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for safety
hearing impairment
  • Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for key commands
physical disability
  • Seated throwing options, modified throwing distances, adapted equipment like larger balls

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, listening skills during story warm-up, using specific vocabulary terms

Maths

Counting catches in sequence 1,2,3,4, measuring distances for throwing, understanding spatial concepts

Science

Forces in throwing action, trajectory and arc of ball flight, understanding balance and coordination

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, accepting decisions and rules, showing respect for others, resilience when eliminated

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter for clear view of all students during activities, central position for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for overarm throwing technique, eye tracking during movement, positive responses to decisions

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe throwing, support students struggling with rule acceptance, provide technique reminders

Demonstration Notes

Use student exemplars where possible, exaggerate key technique points, model positive attitude throughout

Verbal Cues
  • 'High arm over shoulder!'
  • 'Eyes on the ball always!'
  • 'Great sportsmanship!'
  • 'Throw below head height!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor hall or outdoor court area minimum 20m x 15m

Surface Check

Non-slip surface free from obstacles, adequate ceiling height for overarm throws

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Check soft balls are in good condition with no tears
  • Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
  • Verify spots/markers are secure and non-slip

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Collisions during running activities
  • Ball strikes to head or face area
  • Slips when moving backwards
  • Equipment-related trips and falls
Risk Mitigation
  • Establish clear boundaries and movement areas
  • Emphasise throwing below head height at all times
  • Teach safe backward movement technique explicitly
  • Maintain adequate spacing between activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position for maximum visibility during games
  • Monitor throwing height and technique closely
  • Ensure immediate intervention for unsafe behaviour
Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, inform school office if required