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Lesson 6 - Consistent Catching & Signalling

Essential Skill Foundations

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Year 2

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Fundamental Movement Skills

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45 min

Big Question

How can I become a reliable catcher and help my team by signalling when I'm ready to receive the ball?

Learning Objectives

To catch a ball consistently with control and confidence
To signal effectively to request the ball from teammates
To demonstrate sporting values during physical activities

Key Outcomes

Students will catch balls consistently using correct technique
Students will use clear hand signals to communicate readiness
Students will show fair play and encouragement throughout the lesson

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

1 per pair (15 balls)

Stored in equipment bag at lesson start

Alternative: Bean bags, soft play balls

Cones

3 per pair for warm-up, 6 for game (45 total)

Different colours preferred for identification

Alternative: Floor spots, markers

Balls

1 per pair (15 bean bags)

Used for reaction catching activity

Alternative: Small soft balls, tennis balls

Score Sheets

4 different colours

Set up around playing area for conclusion

Alternative: Coloured bibs, floor spots

Key Vocabulary

Consistent catching

Catching the ball successfully most of the time using good technique

Signalling

Using hand gestures to show you are ready to receive the ball

Target

Creating a clear space with your hands for your partner to aim at

Cushioning

Using soft, relaxed hands to absorb the impact of the ball

Sporting values

Fair play, encouragement, following rules and supporting teammates

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of personal space
Following simple instructions in PE

Current Skills

Consistent catching technique with relaxed hands
Clear signalling to communicate readiness
Moving to space whilst maintaining awareness

Next Steps

Catching on the move
Catching with one hand
Advanced game situations with multiple players

Milestone Indicators

Catches 8 out of 10 attempts from 2 metres

Signals clearly before moving to receive

Encourages others and follows game rules

Key Teaching Points

Soft, relaxed hands cushion the ball impact for successful catching
Clear signalling with raised hands helps teammates know when you're ready
Eyes must track the ball throughout its flight path
Weight on balls of feet enables quick reactions and movement
Sporting values include encouragement, fairness and supporting teammates
Progressive challenges build confidence and skill development
Consistent practice leads to improved catching reliability

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Hard, tense hands catch better. Reality: Soft hands cushion and secure the ball
Misconception: Looking at the thrower helps catching. Reality: Eyes must track the ball itself
Misconception: Catching is just about hand position. Reality: Whole body positioning and readiness matter
Misconception: Signalling is unnecessary between partners. Reality: Clear communication prevents missed opportunities
Misconception: Missing catches means you're not good at PE. Reality: Practice and technique development lead to improvement

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with regular changes, clear boundaries and rules, frequent positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, slower progression through skills, additional practice time with basic techniques

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, use sound cues for ball location

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, visual signals instead of verbal commands

physical disability

Seated catching variations, larger balls for easier grip, modified distances and reduced movement requirements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, using descriptive language for technique feedback, communication through signals

Science

Force and motion in ball throwing, reaction times and nervous system responses, impact and absorption of energy

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, honesty in self-assessment, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location with clear sightlines to all groups, move between pairs during activities

Observation Focus

Catching technique, signalling clarity, partner cooperation, sporting values demonstration

Intervention Points

Step in for unsafe throwing, support struggling catchers, facilitate partner changes if needed

Demonstration Notes

Use successful students as models, contrast good and poor technique clearly, involve students in identifying key success factors

Verbal Cues

•'Soft hands, like catching a bubble!'
•'Eyes on the ball, track it all the way!'
•'Signal clearly - show your partner where to throw!'
•'Great sporting values - I can see excellent teamwork!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 15m indoor hall or outdoor hard surface area

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from water or debris, adequate friction for movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check balls are properly inflated and not damaged
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify bean bags are secure with no loose filling

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impacts to face or body
•Collisions between students during movement
•Trips over equipment or while moving backwards

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained
•Controlled throwing force - underarm technique only
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Adequate spacing between activity groups

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all activity areas
•Monitor throwing technique and force
•Watch for safe movement patterns during games

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury severity, apply first aid if qualified, seek additional help if needed