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Lesson 1 - Javelin Passing & Catching

Passing to Competition

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Year 3

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Handball

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use javelin passing and movement to create attacking opportunities in handball?

Learning Objectives

To develop accurate javelin-style passing technique
To catch a handball while moving into space
To understand basic attacking and defending principles in handball

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved javelin passing accuracy and catching technique
Students will show understanding of movement patterns in attack and defence
Students will apply passing and catching skills in small-sided game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Medium-Sized Balls

1 per 2 students (15 balls)

Place balls around the perimeter of the working area for easy collection

Alternative: Size 3 footballs, netballs, or foam balls for less confident catchers

Cones

20-25 cones

Use to mark boundaries, distances, and activity areas

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or chalk lines

Stopwatch

For timing activities and challenges

Alternative: Smartphone timer or class clock

Video Device

1 (tablet/phone)

For capturing video evidence of student progress in assessment

Alternative: Written observation notes

Key Vocabulary

Javelin pass

A one-handed throwing technique where the ball is launched overhead like a javelin

Ready position

Balanced stance with knees bent, weight on balls of feet, arms ready to receive

W target

Hand position where thumbs and fingers form a 'W' shape to catch the ball

Soft hands

Gentle catching technique that cushions the ball's impact

Movement off the ball

Strategic positioning and running when not in possession to create passing opportunities

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and grip techniques
Simple catching and throwing with two hands
Understanding of personal space and basic cooperation

Current Skills

Javelin-style passing technique with one hand
Catching while moving and 'on the full'
Basic attacking and defending movement patterns

Next Steps

Shooting techniques and accuracy
Dribbling and ball control on the move
More complex game tactics and positional play

Milestone Indicators

Consistently accurate javelin passes over 10m distance

Confident catching while moving at jogging pace

Clear understanding of when to pass vs when to move

Key Teaching Points

Javelin passing requires opposite foot forward and full follow-through
Ready position with weight on balls of feet and W-shaped hands is crucial for catching
Movement off the ball creates opportunities for teammates
Clear hand signals improve team communication and passing accuracy
Soft hands technique prevents drops and allows for better ball control
Tactical understanding develops through applying skills in game situations
Self-assessment helps students understand their own progress and areas for improvement

Common Misconceptions

Thinking javelin passing is just throwing hard - emphasise technique over power
Believing catching is just about hand position - highlight footwork and body positioning
Assuming standing still after passing is helpful - stress continuous movement
Thinking only individual skills matter - emphasise teamwork and tactical awareness
Believing faster always means better - focus on accuracy and control first

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short, varied activities with clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement for focus

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter balls for easier handling, reduced complexity in initial stages, extra practice time and encouragement

autism spectrum

Clear activity structure and timing, visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls with bells inside, provide clear verbal descriptions of activities, assign sighted buddy for support

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations and hand signals, provide written activity cards, ensure good visibility of teacher instructions

physical disability

Seated throwing and catching activities, modified distances, use of wheelchair-accessible equipment and spaces

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting consecutive passes, measuring 10-metre distances, timing 30-second challenges, scoring and comparing points

Science

Understanding forces in throwing, trajectory of ball flight, body systems during exercise, reaction times

Geography

Directional language (left, right, forward, back), spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns around the court

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competition, encouraging others, resilience when learning new skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at corner of area for visibility of all groups, move between activities to provide individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for technique development, teamwork, safety, and engagement levels

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with technique, safety concerns arise, or game becomes too competitive

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility, involve students in demonstrations, repeat key points multiple times

Verbal Cues

•'Step forward with opposite foot!'
•'Show me your W hands!'
•'Move after you pass!'
•'Soft hands for catching!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 20m clear area, preferably indoor hall or outdoor hard court

Surface Check

Clean, dry, even surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check handballs are properly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Remove any damaged equipment immediately

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body during passing
•Collisions between students during movement activities
•Slips and falls on potentially slippery surfaces

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established with adequate spacing between groups
•Progressive skill building from stationary to moving activities
•Emphasis on controlled passing rather than power
•Clear communication protocols during games

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students and activities
•Monitor spacing between groups during warm-up activities
•Watch for appropriate intensity and contact levels during games

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid and seek additional support if needed