Lesson 3 - Catching and Team Fielding
Striking & Fielding Fundamentals
•Year 1
•Striking & Fielding
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
Sign up free to access 3 complete units per month, unlimited activity library, and your personal locker.
What's included
- Complete activity instructions & timing
- Teaching tips & differentiation strategies
- Assessment guidance & success criteria
- Downloadable lessons & units
How can fielders work together to catch the ball and stop players from scoring?
Learning Objectives
- To develop catching skills over short distances to prevent scoring
- To understand how to work collaboratively as fielders to stop runners from scoring points
- To improve communication and teamwork skills in fielding situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved catching technique with bean bags and balls
- Students will show understanding of basic fielding tactics and positioning
- Students will communicate effectively with teammates during fielding activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed around activity area for quick access
Alternative: Soft foam balls, tennis balls for advanced students
Range from large (easier) to small (challenging)
Alternative: Playground balls, bean bags for less confident students
Mark circle boundaries and safe playing areas
Alternative: Markers, spots, or natural boundaries
Clear wall space for individual practice activities
Alternative: Rebound nets or partner work
Key Vocabulary
Using both hands to stop and hold a ball that is thrown to you
The team players who try to catch the ball and stop the other team from scoring
The player who runs around the outside trying to get back to their starting position
Talking to your teammates to help work together better
Standing with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, hands out ready to catch
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching with large soft balls
- Understanding of simple game rules
- Awareness of personal space and safety
Current Skills
- Catching balls and bean bags from short distances
- Working as part of a fielding team
- Quick passing and communication under pressure
Next Steps
- Catching balls from longer distances
- Strategic positioning as fielders
- Throwing with greater accuracy and power
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always watch the ball all the way into your hands when catching
- Use both hands together to create a secure catching position
- Communication between team members is essential for successful fielding
- Quick but accurate passing is more effective than rushing and dropping
- Ready position with hands out helps preparation for catching
- Gentle throws are more accurate and safer than hard throws
- Working as a team means everyone has an important role to play
Common Misconceptions
- That catching is only about hand strength - emphasise watching ball and positioning
- That faster always means better - stress accuracy over speed in passing
- That only the person with the ball is important - highlight role of all fielders
- That dropped catches mean failure - frame as learning opportunities
- That communication means shouting loudly - teach clear, helpful calls
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, movement breaks incorporated, simple clear instructions, positive reinforcement frequent
dyspraxia
- Slower skill progression, larger equipment, extra practice time, step-by-step skill breakdown, patient encouragement
autism spectrum
- Clear, predictable routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed, consistent language and instructions
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of activities, use sound cues for ball location, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations essential, use hand signals for instructions, written activity cards available, ensure good sight lines
physical disability
- Seated catching variations, use larger/lighter balls, reduced throwing distances, wheelchair accessible space requirements
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following verbal instructions, using communication vocabulary, developing speaking and listening skills
Maths
Counting backwards from 10 in Hot Potato, understanding of circles and sequences, timing and spatial awareness
Science
Understanding forces in throwing and catching, gravity effects on ball flight, hand-eye coordination development
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, good sportsmanship and fair play
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position during circle activities for visibility, move around perimeter during individual practice
Observation Focus
Watch for correct catching technique, listen for positive communication, monitor safety throughout
Intervention Points
["Step in when catching technique needs correction", "Support students who are struggling with teamwork", "Adjust activity difficulty based on group success rates"]
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate new skills clearly before students attempt, use exaggerated movements for visibility, model positive attitudes throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Watch the ball!'
- •'Two hands together!'
- •'Quick but careful!'
- •'Great teamwork!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 15m clear area, additional wall space beneficial for extension activities
Surface Check
Level surface free from holes, debris, or wet areas that could cause slips
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all balls and bean bags for damage before use
- •Ensure appropriate ball size for student age and ability
- •Store equipment safely during activities to prevent trips
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during running activities
- •Balls hitting students in face or body unexpectedly
- •Trips and falls during movement activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear running paths marked with cones
- •Appropriate spacing between students in all activities
- •Use of soft foam balls reduces injury risk
- •Controlled throwing speeds emphasised throughout
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all students during activities
- •Monitor running areas for safe movement patterns
- •Watch for appropriate ball selection and technique
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess need for first aid, clear space for assistance if required