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Lesson 1 - Underarm Throwing and Catching

Ball Skills Foundations

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Year 3

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Lacrosse

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use accurate underarm passes to help our team keep possession of the ball?

Learning Objectives

To develop underarm throwing technique using lacrosse sticks
To improve catching skills with lacrosse equipment
To apply passing and catching skills in team game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate underarm throwing technique
Students will catch balls consistently using correct stick position
Students will work effectively as a team to maintain possession

Equipment & Resources Required

Lacrosse sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks for damage before lesson, ensure appropriate size for Year 3

Alternative: Tennis rackets or large spoons for modified version

Lacrosse Balls

15 (1 per pair plus spares)

Use softer alternatives if students are struggling with confidence

Alternative: Tennis balls or bean bags for easier catching

Coloured Bibs

15 (for team identification)

Two different colours needed for invasion game

Alternative: Coloured bands or armbands

Cones

20 for marking areas

Use to mark treasure hoops, jail areas, and boundaries clearly

Alternative: Markers or chalk lines

Hoops

4-6 for treasure areas

Large enough for multiple balls, visible from distance

Alternative: Marked circles with cones

Key Vocabulary

Underarm throw

A throwing technique where the ball is released from below shoulder height with an upward motion

Stick grip

How to hold the lacrosse stick with writing hand halfway down and other hand at the top

Open face

Positioning the lacrosse stick head facing upward to receive the ball

Invasion game

A game where teams try to invade the opponent's territory to score points

Possession

Keeping control of the ball within your team

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills from previous lessons
Understanding of taking turns and following rules
Experience with simple throwing and catching activities

Current Skills

Underarm throwing technique with lacrosse stick
Catching with correct stick positioning
Basic team tactics for maintaining possession

Next Steps

Overarm throwing techniques
Advanced catching on the move
More complex game situations and tactics

Milestone Indicators

Consistent catching with appropriate stick position

Accurate throws to partner from 5 metres

Understanding of invasion game principles

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise gentle, controlled throwing throughout - safety is paramount
Writing hand halfway down stick, other hand at top for optimal control
Open face pointing upward when catching - like a scoop ready to receive
Scooping motion for underarm throw - smooth and continuous like shovelling snow
Watch the ball all the way into the stick when catching
Step forward when throwing for accuracy and power
Work as a team to keep possession - passing creates opportunities

Common Misconceptions

Thinking lacrosse is the same as hockey - explain the catching element makes it unique
Believing you need to throw hard to be accurate - emphasise control over power
Assuming the stick makes catching easier - explain it requires different technique than hands
Thinking only fast players can be good at lacrosse - highlight importance of technique and tactics
Believing lacrosse is only for older students - show how skills can be adapted for all ages

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with regular movement breaks, clear boundaries and expectations, frequent positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for skill development, simplified movement patterns initially, use of different sized equipment for success

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet spaces available if needed, consistent routines and expectations

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide clear verbal descriptions of all movements, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations and clear hand signals, written instruction cards available, face students when speaking

physical disability

Seated throwing and catching options, shorter throwing distances, modified grip techniques for different abilities

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Estimating distances for throws, counting successful catches, measuring angles and trajectories of throws

Science

Understanding forces in throwing, gravity affecting ball flight, cause and effect in technique changes

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of directions and movement patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, communication and leadership skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter during activities for optimal viewing of all students, position centrally during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct grip and technique, monitor safety during throwing activities, check for inclusion of all students

Intervention Points

Step in immediately if safety concerns arise, provide individual support for students struggling with technique

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, slow demonstrations from multiple angles, involve confident students to help demonstrate, repeat key techniques several times

Verbal Cues

•'Gentle throws, accurate passes!'
•'Open face up to catch the ball!'
•'Scoop and follow through!'
•'Watch the ball all the way!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area or large sports hall, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Even surface, free from holes, wet patches, or debris that could cause slips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all lacrosse sticks for cracks, sharp edges, or loose parts
•Ensure balls are in good condition without splits or damage
•Verify cones and markers are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collision between students during movement activities
•Impact injury from lacrosse balls
•Trips and falls over equipment or uneven surfaces
•Stick contact between students during practice

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear movement boundaries and practice areas
•Emphasise controlled, gentle throwing throughout lesson
•Ensure adequate spacing during all activities
•Regular safety reminders about equipment handling

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Move around actively during partner and group activities
•Monitor emotional well-being during competitive elements

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, contact office if serious injury