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Lesson 3 - Catching and Decision Making

Game Intelligence Training

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Year 4

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Dodgeball

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Big Question

How can I make smart decisions about when to catch and when to dodge in dodgeball?

Learning Objectives

To develop catching technique to bring teammates back into the game
To judge which balls to attempt catching and which to dodge
To demonstrate understanding of rules and accept decisions given

Key Outcomes

Students will catch dodgeballs using correct technique
Students will make tactical decisions about catching vs dodging
Students will show good sportsmanship and rule understanding

Equipment & Resources Required

Soft Dodgeballs

12-15

Various sizes available for different skill levels

Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags

Cones

Mark court boundaries and prison zones

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines

Bibs

Distinguish teams clearly

Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts

Net Materials

4-6

Track points in competitive activities

Alternative: Whiteboard, paper

Key Vocabulary

Catching

Using both hands to secure a ball thrown at you

Ready position

Balanced stance with knees bent, weight on balls of feet

Cushioning

Absorbing the impact of the ball by giving with your hands

Prison

The zone where eliminated players wait to be rescued

Tactical decision

Choosing the best action based on the situation

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of dodgeball rules
Experience with team games and turn-taking

Current Skills

Catching technique with W-shaped hands
Decision-making between catching and dodging
Understanding consequences of dropped catches

Next Steps

Advanced catching under pressure
Team strategy and communication
Leadership in game situations

Milestone Indicators

Catches 3 out of 5 throws in practice

Makes appropriate catch/dodge decisions 80% of the time

Shows positive attitude when decisions go against them

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise soft, accurate throwing to develop catching skills rather than eliminate players
W-shaped hand position is crucial for successful catching - demonstrate regularly
Decision-making is as important as technique - encourage tactical thinking
Ready position with weight on balls of feet enables quick reactions
Cushioning action prevents ball bouncing out of hands
Sportsmanship and rule acceptance are equally important as physical skills
Progressive difficulty helps build confidence before game application

Common Misconceptions

Thinking harder throws are better - emphasise accuracy and appropriate force
Using only fingertips to catch - show importance of whole hand contact
Always attempting every catch - teach risk assessment and tactical decision-making
Catching is just about hands - highlight importance of whole body positioning
Rules are flexible - reinforce consistent rule application and acceptance

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback, movement breaks incorporated

dyspraxia

Step-by-step technique breakdown, extra practice time, larger equipment, simplified movement patterns

autism spectrum

Clear routine explanations, quiet zones available, consistent rules and expectations, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls, provide auditory cues for ball direction, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written rule cards, visual signals for game management

physical disability

Seated catching variations, larger/lighter balls, modified court sizes, adapted throwing distances

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, giving clear instructions, peer feedback communication

Maths

Scoring systems, counting catches, calculating success rates, understanding probability in decision-making

Science

Forces and motion in catching, trajectory prediction, reaction time and reflexes

PSHE

Teamwork, resilience when facing challenges, accepting decisions, celebrating others' success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location with clear sight lines to all activity areas, move between groups during practice

Observation Focus

Watch for correct catching technique, appropriate throwing force, decision-making processes, and sportsmanship

Intervention Points

Step in for unsafe throwing, provide technique corrections, mediate disputes, encourage struggling students

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for technique points, show both correct and incorrect examples, involve students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'W-shaped hands!'
•'Cushion the catch!'
•'Is this a catching opportunity?'
•'Great decision making!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 30m x 20m with multiple court areas

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles, adequate run-off areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Use only soft foam dodgeballs appropriate for Year 4
•Check balls for damage before use
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impacts to face/head area
•Collisions between players
•Slips and falls during quick movements
•Overexertion during games

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise soft, controlled throwing throughout
•Clear court boundaries and adequate spacing
•No headshots rule strictly enforced
•Regular hydration breaks
•Progressive skill building before games

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all courts
•Monitor throwing intensity continuously
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration
•Intervene immediately for unsafe play

Emergency Procedures

Stop play immediately for any injury, assess and provide appropriate first aid, have emergency contacts readily available