Lesson 3 - Three Step Rule Mastery
Individual & Team Skills
•Year 3
•Handball
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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
Different sized balls can be used - arrange around perimeter for easy collection
Alternative: Size 1 footballs, tennis balls, bean bags for catching practice
Mark playing area boundaries and end zones clearly
Alternative: Spots, markers, or chalk lines
Divide teams clearly for touch down game
Alternative: Coloured bands, different coloured t-shirts
Key Vocabulary
In handball, you can only take three steps while holding the ball before you must bounce, pass, or shoot
You can only hold the ball still for three seconds before you must bounce, pass, or shoot
A penalty given to the opposing team when rules are broken
The scoring area at each end of the playing area where points are scored
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
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