Lesson 6 - Two-Handed Backhand Development
Rally Building Basics
•Year 3
•Tennis
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Check grip size is appropriate for small hands
Alternative: Foam paddles, table tennis bats for beginners
Use appropriate bounce balls for skill level
Alternative: Foam balls, larger low-compression balls for easier tracking
Mark court boundaries and net lines clearly
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines
Key Vocabulary
A tennis stroke played with both hands on the racket when the ball comes to your non-dominant side
Balanced stance with knees bent, racket in front, ready to move to any ball
Body turned perpendicular to the net with shoulder pointing toward target
Racket path that starts below the ball and finishes above shoulder height
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
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