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Lesson 6 - Two-Handed Backhand Development

Rally Building Basics

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Year 3

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Tennis

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use two hands to give us better control when hitting a tennis ball?

Learning Objectives

To develop correct two-handed backhand technique
To understand when and why to use a backhand shot
To improve racket control and ball placement

Key Outcomes

Students will perform a controlled two-handed backhand
Students will rally consistently using appropriate shots
Students will demonstrate improved court positioning

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Rackets

As available

Check grip size is appropriate for small hands

Alternative: Foam paddles, table tennis bats for beginners

Tennis Balls

15 (1 per pair)

Use appropriate bounce balls for skill level

Alternative: Foam balls, larger low-compression balls for easier tracking

Cones

Mark court boundaries and net lines clearly

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines

Key Vocabulary

Two-handed backhand

A tennis stroke played with both hands on the racket when the ball comes to your non-dominant side

Ready position

Balanced stance with knees bent, racket in front, ready to move to any ball

Sideways stance

Body turned perpendicular to the net with shoulder pointing toward target

Low-to-high swing

Racket path that starts below the ball and finishes above shoulder height

Rally

Continuous exchange of shots between players

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic racket grip and ready position
Forehand technique fundamentals
Simple ball tracking and movement

Current Skills

Two-handed backhand grip
Sideways stance for backhand
Low-to-high swing pathway

Next Steps

Single-handed backhand progression
Advanced footwork patterns
Tactical shot selection

Milestone Indicators

Consistent contact with the ball on backhand side

Smooth swing motion from low to high

Appropriate shot selection in rallies

Key Teaching Points

Two hands on racket provide better control and power for young players
Turn sideways to the ball before swinging for proper technique
Low to high swing path creates better ball flight and control
Move feet to get in good position rather than reaching
Cooperative rallying is more important than competitive hitting
Backhand is used when ball comes to non-dominant side
Gentle contact initially builds confidence and control

Common Misconceptions

One hand is better than two - correct by showing control benefits
Hit ball as hard as possible - emphasise control over power
Backhand is too difficult - break down into simple steps
Always use same shot - teach appropriate shot selection
Competition is most important - focus on skill development first

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter practice segments, clear movement boundaries, regular positive feedback

dyspraxia

Simplified grip instruction, larger equipment, extra practice time for coordination

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule, quiet practice area available

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal cues for ball position, tactile guidance for grip

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for game rules

physical disability

Seated version with modified grip, shorter rackets, larger slower balls

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following instructions, explaining technique to others, using specific vocabulary

Maths

Counting rallies and successful shots, measuring court distances, angles of ball flight

Science

Forces and motion in ball striking, gravity effects on ball bounce, body mechanics

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, resilience when learning new skills, fair play and sportsmanship

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position allowing view of all working areas, move between groups during practice

Observation Focus

Backhand technique development, grip correctness, cooperative behaviour, safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in for safety issues, incorrect technique, lack of cooperation, equipment problems

Demonstration Notes

Use slow motion for technique, exaggerate key points, involve students in demonstrations, repeat for clarity

Verbal Cues

•'Two hands together!'
•'Turn your side to the ball!'
•'Low to high swing!'
•'Soft and controlled!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 30m for multiple courts, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, non-slip surface free from debris and holes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check racket strings and frames for damage
•Ensure balls are not over-inflated or damaged
•Cones placed securely without sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Racket strikes between students
•Slips and falls during movement
•Ball strikes to face or body
•Collisions during rallying

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing rules between pairs
•Controlled swing practice before ball work
•Emphasis on gentle hitting throughout
•Clear boundaries and movement rules

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all groups
•Monitor racket control during practice
•Watch for appropriate ball speed
•Ensure ocean game stays controlled

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if needed