Lesson 5 - Catching at Different Heights
Confidence Through Skill Progression
•Year 3
•Dodgeball
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use our whole body to catch balls at different heights safely and effectively?
Learning Objectives
- To develop catching a dodgeball at different heights with control and confidence
- To demonstrate safe catching techniques using two hands and proper body positioning
- To apply catching skills in competitive game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully catch balls at various heights using appropriate techniques
- Students will show improved movement and positioning when approaching catches
- Students will demonstrate understanding of safety in catching activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Place at end zones of courts for final game
Alternative: Gym mats folded and stood upright, large cones
Use to mark boundaries and court divisions
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines on playground
Ensure appropriate size for Year 3 hands
Alternative: Foam balls, tennis balls, bean bags
Various sizes for differentiation activities
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, marked targets
Key Vocabulary
Standing with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, hands ready to catch
Using both hands together to secure the ball safely
Following the ball with your eyes from release to catch
Moving to catch a ball that is not coming directly to you
Talking to teammates to coordinate catches and strategy
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling skills from previous units
- Understanding of personal space and movement
- Basic throwing techniques
Current Skills
- Catching balls at different heights
- Moving to intercept a ball
- Using two-handed catching technique
- Applying catching skills in game situations
Next Steps
- Advanced dodgeball tactics and strategies
- One-handed catching in appropriate situations
- Leading team strategies in dodgeball games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Maintain visual tracking of the ball from release to catch
- Use two hands for all catching attempts with fingers spread
- Move feet to position body correctly rather than reaching with arms
- Begin in ready position with knees bent and hands prepared
- Communication is essential for successful team play
- Gentle throwing ensures safety and catchable balls for teammates
- Practice and patience lead to improvement in catching skills
Common Misconceptions
- One-handed catches are better - emphasise two hands for control and safety
- Standing still and reaching is effective - teach moving feet to ball
- Harder throws are more difficult to catch - show that poor positioning is the real issue
- Only focus on catching your own balls - highlight importance of team rescues
- Speed is more important than technique - demonstrate that good technique leads to better results
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with frequent changes, clear physical boundaries, regular positive feedback
dyspraxia
- Larger, softer balls for easier catching, reduced complexity in games, extra practice time
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal cues for ball location, buddy system for positioning guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals and demonstrations, written instruction cards, clear visual boundaries
physical disability
- Seated catching variations, adapted equipment sizes, modified distances and targets
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Communication skills, following and giving instructions, using descriptive language for reflection
Science
Forces and motion in throwing and catching, gravity effects on ball flight, understanding trajectory and bounce
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, fair play and good sportsmanship
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around the area to observe all students, position centrally during demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for proper catching technique, safety awareness, and positive communication
Intervention Points
Step in if throwing becomes too forceful, if students struggle with rules, or safety concerns arise
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements to show proper technique. Involve confident students in demonstrations when appropriate.
Verbal Cues
- •'Watch the ball with your eyes!'
- •'Two hands ready!'
- •'Move your feet to the ball!'
- •'Gentle throws to teammates!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m area for full lesson, with additional court space for final games
Surface Check
Even, non-slip surface suitable for dynamic movement and safe landing
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all balls are appropriate weight and size for Year 3 students
- •Ensure benches are stable and appropriate height
- •Confirm hoops have no sharp edges or cracks
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during warm-up game
- •Ball strikes to face or body during catching practice
- •Falls when moving quickly to catch balls
- •Injuries from unstable benches
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and adequate space between activities
- •Emphasis on controlled throwing and gentle tagging
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic catching
- •Constant supervision and safety reminders
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to monitor both courts during final games
- •Watch for appropriate throwing force throughout
- •Ensure students follow safety rules consistently
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, apply appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required