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Lesson 5 - Catching at Different Heights

Confidence Through Skill Progression

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Year 3

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Dodgeball

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45 min

Big Question

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

Benches

Place at end zones of courts for final game

Alternative: Gym mats folded and stood upright, large cones

Cones

Use to mark boundaries and court divisions

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines on playground

Dodgeball

Ensure appropriate size for Year 3 hands

Alternative: Foam balls, tennis balls, bean bags

Hoops

Various sizes for differentiation activities

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, marked targets

Key Vocabulary

Ready position

Standing with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, hands ready to catch

Two-handed catch

Using both hands together to secure the ball safely

Tracking

Following the ball with your eyes from release to catch

Intercept

Moving to catch a ball that is not coming directly to you

Communication

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

Consistently uses two hands for catching

Moves feet to get into good catching position

Demonstrates improved success rate in game situations

Shows understanding of when and why catches were successful

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