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Lesson 2 - Overarm Throwing Technique

Fielding Mastery

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Year 3

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Rounders

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use overarm throwing to become better fielders in rounders?

Learning Objectives

To introduce and develop overarm throwing technique with accuracy and power
To understand when and why to use overarm throwing in rounders
To apply overarm throwing skills in competitive target activities

Key Outcomes

Students can demonstrate basic overarm throwing technique with side-on stance
Students understand the tactical purpose of overarm throwing in rounders
Students can throw with increased accuracy toward targets at varying distances

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

1 per student (30)

Stored in central basket for easy collection

Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags for students with reduced confidence

Hoops

6 hoops for advanced targeting

Positioned at various distances from throwing lines

Alternative: Hoops, chalk circles, or cone squares on ground

Sun Markers

20 cones in different colours

Set at 5m intervals from 5m to 25m from targets

Alternative: Chalk lines, tape markers on playground

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throwing

A throwing technique where the arm comes over the shoulder in a high arc

Side-on stance

Standing with your non-throwing side facing the target

Opposition

Using opposite arm to opposite foot when throwing

Release point

The moment when you let go of the ball during the throw

Fielding position

Where players stand to best catch or retrieve the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic underarm throwing from Key Stage 1
Understanding of simple striking and fielding games
Ability to catch and retrieve balls safely

Current Skills

Overarm throwing technique with side-on stance
Throwing with accuracy over increasing distances
Understanding tactical application in rounders

Next Steps

Combining overarm throwing with catching in fielding sequences
Using overarm throwing strategically in full rounders games
Developing consistency and power in throwing technique

Milestone Indicators

Consistent side-on stance with opposite foot forward

Ball released at correct height for maximum distance

Accurate throws to targets from 15+ metres consistently

Key Teaching Points

Side-on stance with non-throwing shoulder pointing toward target
Opposite foot forward (step with foot opposite to throwing arm)
High arm position - reach back and throw over shoulder like picking apples
Release ball at highest point of throw for maximum distance and accuracy
Focus on accuracy before power - technique first, distance second
Use overarm throwing when needing power and distance in rounders games
Tactical decision-making about appropriate throwing distances for individual ability

Common Misconceptions

Students think overarm throwing is just about throwing harder - emphasise technique over power
Confusion about which foot goes forward - use walking analogy to clarify opposite foot rule
Belief that facing the target is correct - reinforce side-on stance importance
Assumption that overarm is always better than underarm - explain tactical choices in games
Thinking release point doesn't matter - demonstrate effects of early/late release clearly

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with variety, clear boundaries and expectations, regular positive feedback, movement breaks when needed

dyspraxia

Simplified technique breakdowns, extra practice time, larger equipment for success, step-by-step visual guides

autism spectrum

Clear visual routine cards, predictable lesson structure, quiet reflection zones available, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal descriptions of technique, buddy system for spatial orientation, tactile markers for throwing positions

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written technique reminders on display, hand signals for key instructions, peer buddy support

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, modified distances, adapted equipment (larger/lighter balls), focus on achievable technique elements

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring throwing distances, calculating team scores, understanding angles of throw trajectory

Science

Forces and motion in throwing, gravity effects on ball flight, muscular system during physical activity

Geography

Direction and orientation in throwing, spatial awareness, mapping throwing patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' successes

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at edge of activity area with clear view of all students, move between pairs/teams to provide individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct side-on stance, appropriate release point, accuracy development, and positive team dynamics

Intervention Points

Step in if technique breaking down, if competitive pressure affecting safety, or if students struggling with tactical decisions

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Use slow-motion technique breakdowns, highlight key body positions clearly, repeat demonstrations from different angles for all students to see

Verbal Cues

•'Side-on stance like a fence panel!'
•'Apple-picking arm - reach high!'
•'Opposite foot forward like walking!'
•'Smooth and accurate, not fast and wild!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m outdoor space, clear of obstacles and with safe boundaries marked

Surface Check

Dry, level playground surface free from hazards, adequate grip for safe movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Tennis balls checked for correct inflation and no splits
•Target boxes stable and positioned away from walls/fences
•Cones placed safely out of throwing lanes
•Regular equipment count to prevent loss

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body from wild throws
•Collisions between students in throwing lanes
•Shoulder strain from overexertion in throwing
•Trips and falls when retrieving balls

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing lanes established with adequate spacing
•Progressive skill building prevents overexertion
•Emphasis on accuracy over power reduces wild throws
•Teacher positioning for maximum visibility of all students

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear sight lines across all throwing areas
•Monitor technique to prevent injury-causing movements
•Watch for signs of fatigue or shoulder discomfort
•Ensure safe ball retrieval procedures

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if incident occurs, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students remain safely positioned