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Big Question

How can we use our throwing skills to hit targets with precision and control?

Learning Objectives

  • To develop throwing for accuracy using underarm and overarm techniques
  • To demonstrate balanced starting positions for accurate throwing
  • To apply throwing skills in target-based activities

Key Outcomes

  • Students will throw accurately at targets using correct technique
  • Students will show improvement in throwing accuracy through practice
  • Students will demonstrate supportive teamwork during circuit activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls
6

Distribute at each station for practice throws

Alternative: Small soft balls, tennis balls

Wire Skittles
2

Position as targets for underarm throwing practice

Alternative: Plastic bottles filled with sand, large cones

Cones
12

Create clusters as targets and mark station boundaries

Alternative: Empty containers, markers

Cricket Wickets
2

Set up as narrow targets for precision throwing

Alternative: Gymnastics posts, tall cones

Hoops
8

Arrange at varying distances for different challenges

Alternative: Marked circles with chalk, rope circles

Tennis Balls
4

Use for activities requiring harder throws

Alternative: Soft play balls, foam balls

Chalk
1 set

Mark targets on walls and ground

Alternative: Paper targets, markers

Key Vocabulary

Accuracy

Hitting exactly where you aim with precision

Underarm throw

Throwing with your hand moving upwards from below your waist

Overarm throw

Throwing with your hand coming over the top of your shoulder

Follow-through

The movement of your hand after releasing the object

Balanced position

Standing steady with feet shoulder-width apart

Target

The object or area you are trying to hit

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic throwing movements with large balls
  • Understanding of personal space and safety
  • Simple target activities with large equipment

Current Skills

  • Throwing for accuracy with small equipment
  • Balanced starting positions
  • Hand pointing technique for accuracy

Next Steps

  • Throwing for distance with power
  • Advanced throwing techniques in athletics
  • Competitive throwing events

Milestone Indicators

1
Can hit target 3 out of 5 attempts from close range
2
Shows consistent follow-through with hand pointing
3
Demonstrates balanced stance before throwing

Key Teaching Points

  • Balanced starting position with feet shoulder-width apart creates throwing stability
  • Follow-through with hand pointing at target improves accuracy significantly
  • Step forward with opposite foot to throwing hand for better power transfer
  • Keep eyes focused on target throughout the throwing action
  • Adjust throwing force and angle based on target distance and height
  • Practice both underarm and overarm techniques for different situations
  • Positive encouragement and teamwork enhance learning environment

Common Misconceptions

  • Thinking accuracy is just about throwing harder - explain that control and technique matter more
  • Believing overarm throws are always better - show when underarm is more appropriate
  • Focusing on distance instead of hitting the target - emphasise precision over power
  • Stopping arm movement at release - demonstrate importance of follow-through
  • Looking at hand instead of target - practice maintaining target focus
  • Standing with same foot forward as throwing arm - correct foot positioning for balance

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Shorter station times, clear boundaries, immediate feedback, movement breaks between reflective discussions
dyspraxia
  • Larger targets, simplified technique focus, extra practice time, step-by-step visual guides
autism spectrum
  • Clear station routines, visual timetable, quiet preparation area, predictable rotation system
visual impairment
  • Use brightly coloured targets, audible targets (bells), verbal descriptions of throwing direction, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
  • Visual demonstrations of technique, hand signals for instructions, written station cards with pictures
physical disability
  • Seated throwing positions, larger/lighter equipment, modified distances, underarm technique focus

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development (accuracy, technique, trajectory), following and giving instructions

Maths

Counting successful throws, measuring distances to targets, understanding angles and trajectories

Science

Forces and motion in throwing, gravity effects on ball flight, friction and resistance

Geography

Directions and compass points for target positioning, spatial awareness and mapping

PSHE

Perseverance and determination, supporting others, celebrating effort over achievement

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between stations to observe technique and provide feedback, position to see all throwing activities

Observation Focus

Watch for correct follow-through, balanced starting positions, and positive partner interactions

Intervention Points

Step in for unsafe throwing, poor technique, or negative interactions between students

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show technique clearly, involve students in demonstrations when appropriate

Verbal Cues
  • 'Point your hand at the target!'
  • 'Tree roots for balance!'
  • 'Eyes on your target!'
  • 'Step with opposite foot!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m, clear of obstacles for five throwing stations

Surface Check

Even, dry surface free from hazards, suitable for running and throwing

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Check beanbags and balls are in good condition
  • Ensure cricket wickets are stable and not sharp
  • Verify hoops are undamaged with no rough edges
  • Confirm skittles are weighted or secured

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Objects thrown in wrong directions
  • Students in throwing zones during activities
  • Collisions during movement between stations
  • Slips during throwing follow-through
Risk Mitigation
  • Clear throwing directions established at each station
  • Designated waiting areas away from throwing zones
  • Controlled rotation system between stations
  • Progressive skill building before equipment use

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position to observe multiple stations simultaneously
  • Monitor throwing zones for safety
  • Check equipment handling during rotations
Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, report any incidents