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Lesson 3 - Three Step Rule Mastery

Individual & Team Skills

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Year 3

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Handball

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45 min

Big Question

How can we move with the ball quickly and safely while following handball rules?

Learning Objectives

To move with the ball successfully using the three-step rule to create passing and shooting opportunities
To apply the three-second rule and understand its impact on ball possession
To develop confidence in bouncing and catching techniques while maintaining ball control

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate the three-step rule with increasing speed and confidence
Students will show understanding of handball rules through consistent application
Students will create better attacking opportunities through improved ball movement

Equipment & Resources Required

Handballs

1 per student (30)

Different sized balls can be used - arrange around perimeter for easy collection

Alternative: Size 1 footballs, tennis balls, bean bags for catching practice

Cones

12-16 cones

Mark playing area boundaries and end zones clearly

Alternative: Spots, markers, or chalk lines

Bibs

15 in contrasting colours

Divide teams clearly for touch down game

Alternative: Coloured bands, different coloured t-shirts

Key Vocabulary

Three-step rule

In handball, you can only take three steps while holding the ball before you must bounce, pass, or shoot

Three-second rule

You can only hold the ball still for three seconds before you must bounce, pass, or shoot

Free throw

A penalty given to the opposing team when rules are broken

End zone

The scoring area at each end of the playing area where points are scored

Possession

Having control of the ball for your team

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic catching and throwing with two hands
Understanding of simple game rules and fair play
Ability to move safely in shared space

Current Skills

Three-step rule application with ball control
One-handed bouncing technique
Understanding of three-second possession rule
Tactical movement to create opportunities

Next Steps

Applying three-step rule under defensive pressure
Combining three-step rule with shooting techniques
Using three-step rule in small-sided games

Milestone Indicators

Consistent application of three-step rule without prompting

Smooth coordination between steps, bounce, and catch

Tactical awareness of when to use three-step rule versus passing

Key Teaching Points

Three-step rule is fundamental to handball - emphasise counting aloud
One-handed bounce technique requires practice - support with both hands catching
Three-second rule creates urgency - use Mississippi counting method
Progressive speed development - master walking before jogging
Game application reinforces rules - stop play to correct and teach
Safety through control - technique before speed always
Positive reinforcement builds confidence - celebrate small improvements

Common Misconceptions

Thinking more steps are better - reinforce exactly three steps rule
Believing two-handed bouncing is acceptable - emphasise one-handed only
Assuming running into end zone scores - must catch ball in end zone
Forgetting three-second rule exists - practice counting regularly
Thinking faster is always better - emphasise control over speed

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, visual reminders of rules, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter balls for easier handling, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, step-by-step instruction cards

autism spectrum

Clear visual routine cards, quiet zones available, predictable activity structure, additional processing time

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal descriptions of spatial layout, buddy system for navigation, audio cues for timing

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of three-step rule, hand signals for game play, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Seated version with adapted three-movement rule, modified equipment for easier handling, reduced distances for activities

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following multi-step instructions, explaining rules to others, using specific vocabulary correctly

Maths

Counting steps and seconds, measuring distances for passes, angles of movement around opponents

Science

Understanding forces in ball bouncing, friction between ball and ground, body systems during exercise

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing emotions during competition, showing resilience when making mistakes

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter for good visibility, position in centre during demonstrations, stay close to game action during Touch Down

Observation Focus

Watch for three-step rule compliance, ball control technique, spatial awareness, and team cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in if rules consistently broken, students becoming frustrated, or safety concerns arise

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate slowly first, then at normal speed, use exaggerated movements for clarity, involve students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Three steps then action!'
•'Count your steps out loud!'
•'Bounce with one hand, catch with two!'
•'Use your steps to get closer!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 15m clear space for Touch Down game, indoor hall or outdoor hard court

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles, appropriate for running and ball handling

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check handballs are properly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify bibs are clean and in good repair

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during game play
•Slips when changing direction quickly
•Ball strikes to face or body
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and reinforced
•Adequate spacing between students during individual practice
•Progressive skill building from walking to jogging speed
•Regular breaks and hydration opportunities
•Emphasis on controlled movement over pure speed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Monitor game play for overly physical contact
•Watch for signs of fatigue or distress
•Ensure fair play and rule compliance

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safely managed