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Lesson 4 - Game-Specific Throws

Movement Patterns Adventure

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Year 2

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How do we choose the best type of throw for different situations and targets?

Learning Objectives

To participate in three different throwing games and understand when to use different throws
To use a variety of throws (rolling, underarm, overarm) according to the requirements of different games
To explore and evaluate which throws work best for accuracy, distance, and height in different scenarios

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate appropriate throw selection for specific game situations
Students will execute rolling, underarm, and overarm throws with improved technique
Students will explain why different throws are needed for different activities and targets

Equipment & Resources Required

Soft Dodgeballs

30-40

Distribute evenly for starter activity, then reorganise for stations

Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags

Balls

21 (7 per station for Activity 2)

Bright colours preferred for visibility

Alternative: Small soft balls, mini bean bags

Cones

20-25

Mixed colours for different stations and boundaries

Alternative: Markers, spots

Squares

14 (7 per hopscotch game)

Numbers 1-7 clearly visible

Alternative: Chalk squares, numbered mats

Targets

4-6

Large enough for Year 2 students to see clearly

Alternative: Hoops, chalk triangles, rope triangles

Sun Markers

1 set

Clear centre line approximately 10m x 8m court

Alternative: Cones, lines on floor

Key Vocabulary

Rolling

Throwing a ball along the ground using a smooth, controlled motion

Underarm throw

Throwing with the arm moving upward from below the waist in a pendulum motion

Overarm throw

Throwing with the arm moving over the shoulder for power and distance

Accuracy

How close your throw comes to hitting the intended target

Distance

How far you can throw the ball or beanbag

Target

The specific area or object you are aiming to hit with your throw

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing movements from Unit 1 lessons 1-3
Understanding of rolling and underarm throws
Experience with simple target games

Current Skills

Selecting appropriate throws for different game situations
Comparing effectiveness of throws for accuracy, distance, and height
Applying throwing skills in competitive game contexts

Next Steps

Developing consistency in throw selection under pressure
Learning to adapt throws based on opponent positioning
Understanding tactical throwing in team games

Milestone Indicators

Student chooses correct throw type without prompting

Student can explain their throw choice clearly

Student demonstrates improved accuracy in game situations

Key Teaching Points

Always step forward with the opposite foot to your throwing arm
Point your hand toward the target to improve accuracy
Choose rolling for low, close targets requiring accuracy
Use underarm throws for medium distances without going too high
Select overarm throws when you need distance and power
Keep all throws below shoulder height in dodgeball for safety
Think like a detective - analyse the situation before choosing your throw

Common Misconceptions

All throws are the same - teach that different situations require different throws
Harder throws are always better - emphasise control and appropriateness over power
You don't need to step forward - demonstrate how stepping improves accuracy and distance
Overarm is best for everything - show how each throw has specific advantages
Aiming doesn't matter if you throw hard - stress accuracy over force
Games are just about winning - focus on learning and trying different techniques

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with clear transitions, movement breaks built in, clear boundaries and expectations, immediate positive feedback

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter equipment for easier handling, additional demonstrations, simplified instructions, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Clear routine and structure, visual station cards, quiet reflection areas available, predictable rotation system

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of targets, buddy system for guidance, larger targets for easier success

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all throws, hand signals for instructions, written station instructions available

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, modified distances and heights, adapted equipment sizes, alternative scoring systems

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting balls in warm-up game, measuring distances to targets, understanding numerical sequences in hopscotch

Science

Forces and motion in different throw types, understanding trajectory and gravity effects on projectiles

Geography

Directional language, spatial awareness, understanding of distance and positioning

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation in group games, resilience when facing challenges, respect for rules and fair play

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position centrally during station work to observe all three activities, move between stations to provide feedback and support

Observation Focus

Watch for appropriate throw selection, safe throwing technique, positive interactions between students, engagement with activities

Intervention Points

Step in if students use inappropriate throws for safety, if technique needs correction, if students are struggling with game rules

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate throws in slow motion first, then at normal speed. Exaggerate key teaching points like foot positioning and pointing toward target. Use students to demonstrate good examples.

Verbal Cues

•'Think detective - which throw will work best?'
•'Remember opposite foot forward!'
•'Below shoulders for safety!'
•'Why did you choose that throw?'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 12m clear space, preferably sports hall with non-slip surface

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles, no balls or equipment left on floor during movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All balls must be soft/sponge materials only
•Bean bags checked for secure stitching
•Cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Equipment distributed safely around hall perimeter when not in use

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during dodgeball
•Slips from balls left on floor
•Injury from throwing above shoulder height
•Overcrowding at popular stations

Risk Mitigation

•Clear below-shoulder rule enforced throughout
•Adequate spacing maintained between students
•Immediate equipment collection after each activity
•Rotation system prevents overcrowding
•Soft equipment only policy strictly maintained

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all three stations during rotation
•Monitor dodgeball for height and force of throws
•Ensure safe transitions between activities
•Watch for students following throw technique correctly

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately with whistle signal, assess any injuries, provide appropriate first aid, have clear access to exits