Lesson 6 - Consistent Catching & Signalling
Essential Skill Foundations
•Year 2
•Fundamental Movement Skills
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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
Stored in equipment bag at lesson start
Alternative: Bean bags, soft play balls
Different colours preferred for identification
Alternative: Floor spots, markers
Used for reaction catching activity
Alternative: Small soft balls, tennis balls
Set up around playing area for conclusion
Alternative: Coloured bibs, floor spots
Key Vocabulary
Catching the ball successfully most of the time using good technique
Using hand gestures to show you are ready to receive the ball
Creating a clear space with your hands for your partner to aim at
Using soft, relaxed hands to absorb the impact of the ball
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
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