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Lesson 6 - Golf Course Play and Scoring

Foundation Skills & Course Play

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Year 3

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Golf

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Big Question

How can I play a full round of golf while demonstrating sporting values and keeping accurate score?

Learning Objectives

To develop technique in both iron play and putting during course play
To understand and apply golf scoring systems and terminology
To demonstrate sporting values throughout competitive play

Key Outcomes

Students will play a full round of golf using appropriate club selection
Students will keep accurate scores and understand golf terminology
Students will demonstrate respect, honesty and self-belief during play

Equipment & Resources Required

Plastic Golf Equipment

30 (1 per student)

Distributed at tee positions

Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags

Iron Clubs

15 sets (iron and putter per pair)

2 clubs per pair, stored safely when not in use

Alternative: Hockey sticks, tennis rackets for striking

Coloured Cones

40 (10 each: white, green, yellow, blue)

White=tees, Green=targets, Yellow=bunkers, Blue=water

Alternative: Coloured markers, chalk circles

Hoops

15 (5 each: green, yellow, blue)

Placed as targets and hazards throughout course

Alternative: Rope circles, chalk circles

Scorecards

30 (1 per student)

Pre-prepared with 10 holes and par numbers

Alternative: Paper and pencils, individual whiteboards

Measuring Tapes

For setting up 5-metre intervals

Alternative: Pre-marked cones for distance

Key Vocabulary

Par

The expected number of strokes for a skilled golfer to complete a hole

Hazard

An obstacle on the golf course such as water or sand bunkers

Fairway

The main playing area between tee and green

Iron

A golf club used for medium to long distance shots

Putter

A golf club used for short, precise shots on the green

Fore

A warning shout when a ball might hit someone

Etiquette

The proper behaviour and manners in golf

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic iron swing technique
Putting grip and stance
Understanding of fairway and green concepts
Basic safety awareness around golf equipment

Current Skills

Course management and hazard avoidance
Score keeping and understanding par
Club selection for different situations
Golf etiquette and sporting values

Next Steps

Advanced course strategy
Consistent scoring over multiple rounds
Teaching and coaching others
Transition to outdoor golf facilities

Milestone Indicators

Completes 10-hole course with recorded score

Demonstrates appropriate club selection

Shows consistent sporting behaviour

Can explain golf terminology confidently

Key Teaching Points

Golf is a game of honesty and personal integrity - accurate scoring is essential
Course management and strategy are more important than hitting the ball hard
Proper etiquette shows respect for others and enhances everyone's enjoyment
Different clubs serve different purposes - iron for distance, putter for precision
Hazards add challenge and require careful shot planning
Self-assessment and reflection help identify areas for improvement
Golf skills can transfer to other sports requiring accuracy and control

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Golf is just about hitting the ball as hard as possible' - Correction: 'Golf rewards accuracy, control, and smart decision-making over raw power'
Misconception: 'You can improve your score by not counting bad shots' - Correction: 'Honesty in scoring is fundamental to golf and helps track real improvement'
Misconception: 'All golf shots should use the same technique' - Correction: 'Different situations require different clubs and techniques for success'
Misconception: 'Golf etiquette doesn't matter in PE lessons' - Correction: 'Etiquette teaches respect and consideration that applies to all sports and life'
Misconception: 'Hazards are just obstacles to avoid completely' - Correction: 'Hazards add strategic thinking and sometimes calculated risks pay off'

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear visual boundaries, regular positive feedback, movement breaks between static activities

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified grip techniques, additional practice time, step-by-step technique breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedules for rotation, quiet practice area available, consistent routines, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use bright coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of course layout, tactile markers for boundaries, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, written scorecards with pictures, hand signals for communication, clear visual boundaries

physical disability

Adapted clubs or striking implements, seated play options, modified target distances, alternative scoring methods

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Scorekeeping and addition, measuring distances between markers, calculating over/under par scores, geometry of angles for shot direction

Science

Forces and motion in golf swings, projectile motion of ball flight, friction between club and ball, leverage principles in club design

Geography

Mapping course layouts, understanding spatial relationships, compass directions for shot planning, scale and distance concepts

PSHE

Honesty in score keeping, supporting teammates, resilience when facing challenges, self-reflection and goal setting for improvement

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move continuously between playing groups, positioning to see all active areas while maintaining overall supervision

Observation Focus

Monitor golf technique development, course management decisions, scoring accuracy, and sporting behaviour

Intervention Points

Step in for safety concerns, technique correction, scoring disputes, or etiquette reminders

Demonstration Notes

Model complete shots including setup, execution, and follow-through. Demonstrate positive reactions to both good and poor shots, emphasising improvement process

Verbal Cues

•'Smooth swing, don't rush!'
•'Think about your route before hitting'
•'Great sportsmanship!'
•'Count every shot honestly'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or playground area minimum 30m x 20m for 10-hole course layout

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes or debris that could cause trips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Child-safe plastic golf clubs appropriate for age group
•Plastic golf balls only - no hard balls
•Hoops and cones securely positioned without sharp edges
•Scorecards and pencils without dangerous points

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Club strikes from poor technique or awareness
•Trips over course equipment
•Ball strikes during simultaneous play
•Collisions during movement between holes

Risk Mitigation

•Clear 'FORE' safety training and immediate response
•Designated hitting directions away from other students
•Safe distances maintained between active holes
•Equipment checks before and during lesson
•Clear boundaries and no-entry zones established

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all active playing areas
•Monitor club handling technique throughout
•Ensure students follow rotation system safely
•Watch for fatigue affecting concentration and safety

Emergency Procedures

Stop all play immediately for any safety concern, assess and provide appropriate first aid, clear evacuation route identified