Lesson 3 - Catching and Decision Making
Game Intelligence Training
•Year 4
•Dodgeball
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Various sizes available for different skill levels
Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags
Mark court boundaries and prison zones
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines
Distinguish teams clearly
Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts
Track points in competitive activities
Alternative: Whiteboard, paper
Key Vocabulary
Using both hands to secure a ball thrown at you
Balanced stance with knees bent, weight on balls of feet
Absorbing the impact of the ball by giving with your hands
The zone where eliminated players wait to be rescued
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
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