Lesson 2 - Overarm Throwing and Catching
Ball Skills Foundations
•Year 3
•Lacrosse
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can the '3 P's' help us become more accurate when throwing overarm in lacrosse?
Learning Objectives
- Use the 3 P's (Push, Pull, Point) when performing overarm throwing technique
- Demonstrate accurate overarm throwing and catching using lacrosse sticks
- Work collaboratively as a team to score points in competitive games
Key Outcomes
- Students will accurately perform overarm throws using the push/pull technique
- Students will catch the ball consistently using proper lacrosse stick positioning
- Students will apply throwing and catching skills effectively in team games
Equipment & Resources Required
Check all sticks for damage, ensure appropriate size for Year 3 students
Alternative: Tennis rackets or hockey sticks for basic technique practice
Use softer balls for beginners or students with confidence issues
Alternative: Tennis balls or soft play balls
Use bright colours for clear visibility
Alternative: Bean bags or markers
Two different colours for team games
Alternative: Coloured bands or team markers
Key Vocabulary
The coordinated movement where the dominant hand pushes while the non-dominant hand pulls to create power and accuracy
Push (dominant hand), Pull (non-dominant hand), Point (stick follows through towards target)
The curved part of the lacrosse stick head that catches and holds the ball
Absorbing the force of the ball by moving the stick back towards the shoulder when catching
To stop or catch a pass before it reaches its intended target
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling and catching with hands
- Understanding of underarm throwing technique
- Awareness of teamwork and simple game rules
Current Skills
- Overarm throwing using the 3 P's technique
- Catching with lacrosse stick using correct grip and positioning
- Applying skills in competitive team scenarios
Next Steps
- Combining overarm and underarm throws tactically
- Advanced catching techniques while moving
- Game strategy and positional play
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- The 3 P's (Push, Pull, Point) are the foundation of effective overarm throwing
- Sideways stance with non-dominant shoulder facing target maximises power and accuracy
- Cushioning the catch by moving stick towards shoulder prevents ball from bouncing out
- Accuracy is more important than power when learning new throwing techniques
- Effective communication and movement create better passing opportunities in games
- Both overarm and underarm throws have their place - choose based on distance and situation
- Regular practice and repetition are essential for developing muscle memory in lacrosse skills
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: 'Throwing harder will make it more accurate' - Correction: Focus on technique and follow-through for accuracy
- Misconception: 'I need to face my target when throwing' - Correction: Sideways stance generates more power and accuracy
- Misconception: 'Catching is just about getting the ball in the stick' - Correction: Cushioning is essential for secure ball retention
- Misconception: 'The 3 P's only work for overarm throws' - Correction: Push, Pull, Point principles apply to all throwing techniques
- Misconception: 'Defenders should chase the ball' - Correction: Reading the play and anticipating passes is more effective
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide regular positive feedback, clear boundaries and expectations, movement breaks as needed
dyspraxia
- Use larger equipment, slow down demonstrations, allow extra practice time, break skills into smaller components, provide additional support
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed, consistent language and instructions
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations and hand signals, written instructions on display, ensure student can see teacher during all instructions
physical disability
- Adapt throwing distances, provide seated throwing options, use larger/lighter balls, modify catching positions as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting passes and catches, measuring throwing distances, angles of release and trajectory, timing activities in seconds
Science
Forces in throwing (push and pull), physics of ball flight and trajectory, body systems working during exercise
Geography
Directions and spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns around playing area, understanding of boundaries and zones
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, building resilience when learning difficult skills, managing emotions during competitive activities
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position during demonstrations, circulate between groups during practice, corner position during games for full area visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for correct 3 P's technique, monitor catching cushioning action, observe teamwork and communication
Intervention Points
Step in when technique is unsafe, correct major errors immediately, support struggling students with additional demonstration
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Always show techniques slowly first, exaggerate key positions for visibility, use student volunteers for peer demonstration, repeat demonstrations as needed
Verbal Cues
- •'Push, Pull, Point!'
- •'Cushion that catch!'
- •'Sideways stance!'
- •'Behind the ear to start!'
- •'Soft hands for catching!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear area for full lesson activities, additional space for partner work
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or obstacles that could cause trips or falls
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all lacrosse sticks for cracks, loose components, or sharp edges
- •Ensure balls are in good condition without damage
- •Verify cones are stable and have no sharp edges
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to head or body from wild throws
- •Collisions between students during movement activities
- •Stick contact injuries during close proximity work
- •Trips and falls during game activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Establish clear throwing directions and zones
- •Maintain adequate spacing between pairs and groups
- •Emphasise controlled throwing - accuracy over power
- •Enforce no contact rules during defensive activities
- •Provide clear boundaries for all activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all throwing activities
- •Monitor high-activity game areas closely
- •Move regularly between groups during partner work
- •Watch for students moving into throwing zones
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid response, contact office if needed