Lesson 3 - Underarm Bowling Skills
Striking Basics
•Year 2
•Striking & Fielding
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can I use my whole body to bowl a ball accurately to help my team score points?
Learning Objectives
- To develop underarm bowling technique with correct stepping action and body positioning
- To improve accuracy when bowling to different positions and targets
- To apply bowling skills effectively in game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct stepping technique when bowling underarm
- Students will bowl accurately to targets at different heights and positions
- Students will explain key teaching points for effective underarm bowling
Equipment & Resources Required
Check balls are clean and in good condition before use
Alternative: Bean bags, soft cricket balls, playground balls
Mix of different sized hoops for varied challenge levels
Alternative: Cones with targets, chalk circles on tarmac
Use bright colours for clear visibility
Alternative: Existing playground markings, chalk lines
Key Vocabulary
Rolling or throwing a ball with hand below shoulder height using a smooth, pendulum-like arm swing
Stepping forward with the foot opposite to your throwing hand to create power and balance
The moment when you let go of the ball during the bowling action
Being able to bowl the ball exactly where you intend it to go
Moving your arm in one flowing motion without jerky or sudden movements
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching skills
- Understanding of dominant hand
- Ability to follow simple game rules
Current Skills
- Stepping into underarm bowling action
- Aiming accurately to different positions
- Applying bowling skills in competitive games
Next Steps
- Developing overarm bowling techniques
- Strategic placement of balls in games
- Leading warm-up activities for peers
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Step forward with the foot opposite to your bowling hand for power and balance
- Use a smooth, pendulum-like arm swing rather than jerky movements
- Release the ball when your hand points directly at your target
- Aim for the middle of your partner's body to give them the best chance of catching
- Keep your eyes on the target throughout the bowling action
- Follow through with your arm pointing towards where you want the ball to go
- Practice makes perfect - focus on technique rather than throwing hard
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking that bowling harder makes the ball more accurate - actually, controlled technique is key
- Stepping with the same foot as bowling hand - this reduces power and balance
- Releasing the ball too early (aiming upward) or too late (aiming downward)
- Trying to make spectacular catches instead of focusing on good body positioning
- Believing that only the winning team in games demonstrates good skills
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short activity bursts with clear transitions, regular movement opportunities, immediate feedback on technique
dyspraxia
- Larger balls for easier grip, exaggerated technique demonstrations, extra practice time for coordination development
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure for activities, visual schedule of lesson progression, quiet zone available for sensory breaks
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of target positions, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for game instructions, written coaching points displayed
physical disability
- Seated bowling position option, modified target distances, lightweight balls for easier manipulation
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, giving clear instructions to partners, descriptive language for technique feedback
Maths
Counting successful bowls and team scores, measuring distances between bowling positions, understanding angles for different target positions
Science
Forces and motion in bowling action, gravity effects on ball trajectory, friction between ball and surface
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' successes and providing encouragement
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand where you can see all groups simultaneously. Move between groups during activities to provide individual coaching. Position yourself at throwing line during target games for safety monitoring.
Observation Focus
Watch for correct stepping technique, smooth arm action, and appropriate aiming. Monitor cooperation and encouragement between students. Check for understanding through questioning.
Intervention Points
Step in if bowling becomes too forceful or technique deteriorates. Intervene if group dynamics become negative. Provide additional support for students struggling with coordination.
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate from side view so students can see body position clearly. Use slow-motion for technique teaching, normal speed for game context. Show both right-handed and left-handed techniques.
Verbal Cues
- •'Opposite foot steps forward!'
- •'Smooth like a pendulum!'
- •'Point your hand where you want the ball to go!'
- •'Gentle and controlled!'
- •'Watch the ball into your hands!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 30m clear space for multiple group activities. Indoor hall or outdoor hard court surface suitable.
Surface Check
Dry, level surface free from obstacles. Check for any wet patches or debris before lesson begins.
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Inspect all balls for damage or excessive wear
- •Ensure hoops have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Check cones are weighted and stable for marking
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Balls hitting students in face or head area
- •Collisions between students moving in different directions
- •Slips when running to collect equipment
- •Overexertion during continuous activity periods
Risk Mitigation
- •Establish clear bowling directions and safety zones
- •Maintain adequate spacing between activities
- •Use only soft, age-appropriate balls throughout
- •Clear 'stop' signal established for immediate activity cessation
- •Progressive skill building prevents overwhelming students
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups during activities
- •Monitor bowling force levels to ensure appropriate control
- •Watch for fatigue signs during continuous movement activities
- •Circulate between groups providing safety reminders
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs. Clear assessment of situation. Basic first aid knowledge required. Access to first aid kit and emergency contact information.