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Lesson 6 - Backhand Striking and Game Play

Net Rally Fundamentals

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Year 2

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Net and Wall

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45 min

Big Question

How can I use both forehand and backhand shots to win points in a rally?

Learning Objectives

To develop backhand striking technique with good grip and positioning
To apply forehand and backhand shots in competitive game situations
To demonstrate fair play and acceptance of rules and decisions

Key Outcomes

Students will strike consistently using backhand technique from self-feed
Students will play competitive games using variety of shots and movement
Students will show understanding of rules and good sporting behaviour

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Rackets

1 per student (30)

Check racket size appropriate for students, distributed before lesson

Alternative: Foam paddles, table tennis bats for smaller hands

Tennis Balls

1 per student (30)

Ensure balls have appropriate bounce for self-feeding

Alternative: Foam balls, larger training balls for beginners

Coloured Cones

24 (4 different colours, 6 of each)

Set up cone targets and boundaries before lesson

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk circles

Sun Markers

Sufficient for 8 courts

Create clear court boundaries and net lines

Alternative: Rope, chalk lines, existing court markings

Key Vocabulary

Backhand

A tennis stroke where you hit the ball with the back of your hand facing the direction of the shot, showing your knuckles to your partner

V-grip

The correct way to hold a tennis racket with thumb and finger forming a V shape on the handle

Rally

Hitting the ball back and forth with a partner or opponent, trying to keep it going

Self-feed

Bouncing the ball to yourself before striking it, giving you control over the shot

Ready position

The alert, balanced stance used to prepare for receiving or striking the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic forehand striking technique established
Understanding of ready position and V-grip
Experience with simple rally activities

Current Skills

Backhand striking from self-feed
Game application with variety of shots
Movement and positioning around court

Next Steps

Serving techniques introduction
Advanced game tactics and strategies
Tournament play and officiating

Milestone Indicators

Consistent knuckles-forward position for backhand

Smooth transition between forehand and backhand

Strategic shot placement in games

Key Teaching Points

Maintain V-grip throughout all striking activities for consistent technique
Emphasise side-on position showing knuckles for effective backhand striking
Develop rally mindset focusing on cooperation rather than immediate competition
Encourage return to ready position after each shot for better court coverage
Build fair play attitudes through positive reinforcement of good sporting behaviour
Progress from self-feed to partner feed to develop striking consistency
Use assessment opportunities to document progress and celebrate achievements

Common Misconceptions

Backhand is harder than forehand - emphasise both are equally important skills
Hitting harder makes better shots - focus on control and placement over power
Winning is most important - develop cooperative rally skills before competitive play
Ready position doesn't matter - show how it improves reaction time and balance
Rules are negotiable - establish that rules ensure fair play for everyone
Only skilled players can help others - encourage peer support at all levels

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, specific roles during activities, regular movement breaks

dyspraxia

Simplified striking technique focus, larger equipment for easier success, extra practice time for skill development

autism spectrum

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

visual impairment

Bright coloured balls and equipment, verbal descriptions of court layout, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations emphasised, clear hand signals for instructions, written rule cards available

physical disability

Seated striking variations, larger/lighter rackets available, modified court sizes and rules

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following multi-step instructions, using specific tennis vocabulary, expressing reflections clearly

Maths

Counting rally totals, measuring court distances, angles of striking and movement patterns

Science

Forces and motion in ball striking, physics of bouncing balls, body systems during exercise

PSHE

Fair play and sportsmanship, accepting decisions gracefully, supporting and encouraging others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around different courts during game play, central position during demonstrations

Observation Focus

V-grip maintenance, side-on positioning for backhand, fair play during games

Intervention Points

Support struggling pairs, manage competitive intensity, reinforce safety reminders

Demonstration Notes

Use students to demonstrate good technique, show common mistakes to avoid, emphasise key teaching points clearly

Verbal Cues

•'Show those knuckles for backhand!'
•'Gentle strikes to keep the rally going!'
•'Ready position after each shot!'
•'Celebrate good shots from your opponent!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m for class activities, clear court boundaries marked

Surface Check

Non-slip surface free from obstacles, appropriate for quick direction changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Rackets appropriate size for age group with secure grips
•Tennis balls checked for appropriate bounce and condition
•Cones positioned safely away from striking zones
•No damaged equipment that could cause injury

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body during striking practice
•Collision between students during movement activities
•Trips over equipment or court markers
•Overexertion during competitive games

Risk Mitigation

•Controlled striking force emphasised throughout
•Clear court boundaries and adequate spacing between activities
•Proper warm-up to prepare body for movement
•Regular reminders about spatial awareness and consideration for others

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe multiple courts during game play
•Move around during practice to check technique and safety
•Monitor competitive activities for appropriate intensity
•Ensure fair play and positive interactions

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, apply appropriate first aid, arrange additional support if needed