Lesson 1 - Underarm Throwing and Catching
Ball Skills Foundations
•Year 3
•Lacrosse
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Check all sticks for damage before lesson, ensure appropriate size for Year 3
Alternative: Tennis rackets or large spoons for modified version
Use softer alternatives if students are struggling with confidence
Alternative: Tennis balls or bean bags for easier catching
Two different colours needed for invasion game
Alternative: Coloured bands or armbands
Use to mark treasure hoops, jail areas, and boundaries clearly
Alternative: Markers or chalk lines
Large enough for multiple balls, visible from distance
Alternative: Marked circles with cones
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the ball is released from below shoulder height with an upward motion
How to hold the lacrosse stick with writing hand halfway down and other hand at the top
Positioning the lacrosse stick head facing upward to receive the ball
A game where teams try to invade the opponent's territory to score points
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
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