Lesson 6 - Golf Course Play and Scoring
Foundation Skills & Course Play
•Year 3
•Golf
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Distributed at tee positions
Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags
2 clubs per pair, stored safely when not in use
Alternative: Hockey sticks, tennis rackets for striking
White=tees, Green=targets, Yellow=bunkers, Blue=water
Alternative: Coloured markers, chalk circles
Placed as targets and hazards throughout course
Alternative: Rope circles, chalk circles
Pre-prepared with 10 holes and par numbers
Alternative: Paper and pencils, individual whiteboards
For setting up 5-metre intervals
Alternative: Pre-marked cones for distance
Key Vocabulary
The expected number of strokes for a skilled golfer to complete a hole
An obstacle on the golf course such as water or sand bunkers
The main playing area between tee and green
A golf club used for medium to long distance shots
A golf club used for short, precise shots on the green
A warning shout when a ball might hit someone
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
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