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Lesson 1 - Overarm Throwing and Game Tactics

Game Intelligence Training

•

Year 4

•

Dodgeball

•

1h 12min

Big Question

How can we use powerful, accurate throwing to outplay our opponents in team games?

Learning Objectives

To develop overarm throwing technique with power and accuracy
To understand tactical decisions in attack and defence
To work effectively alongside and against others in team situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved overarm throwing technique
Students will make appropriate tactical decisions during gameplay
Students will show effective teamwork and sportsmanship

Equipment & Resources Required

Soft Dodgeballs

7 balls per court

Place along centre line before each game

Alternative: Soft sponge balls, bean bags for lower ability

Cones

4 per court (plus extras for activities)

Mark court boundaries and centre line clearly

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines

Bibs

Half the class

Clearly distinguish teams

Alternative: Different coloured tops

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in a windmill motion

Elimination

Being removed from the game when hit by the ball or breaking rules

Tactics

Planned actions and strategies to outplay opponents

Accuracy

The ability to hit your intended target consistently

Defence

Protecting yourself and teammates from being eliminated

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills from Year 3
Understanding of simple team games
Basic throwing and catching techniques

Current Skills

Overarm throwing technique
Game tactics and spatial awareness
Teamwork in competitive situations

Next Steps

Advanced throwing variations
Complex game strategies
Leadership roles in team games

Milestone Indicators

Consistent low, powerful throws

Quick decision-making under pressure

Positive team communication

Key Teaching Points

Overarm throwing technique with step forward and low trajectory
Tactical awareness of when to attack and when to defend
Teamwork and communication during competitive activities
Safety through below-waist throwing rule
Honesty and fair play in self-officiating situations
Building confidence through progressive skill development
Connecting technique practice to game application

Common Misconceptions

High throws are more powerful - correct with low trajectory emphasis
Throwing hard is always better - emphasise accuracy over power
Individual play wins games - stress teamwork importance
Rules don't matter in practice - maintain standards throughout
Only athletic students can succeed - highlight different types of success

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent position changes, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback

dyspraxia

Larger targets initially, simplified technique focus, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Clear, predictable game structure, visual rule cards, quiet zones available

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal descriptions of court layout, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual signals for game start/stop, clear hand gestures for rules, written instruction cards

physical disability

Modified throwing distances, seated throwing variations, alternative elimination rules

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, sports vocabulary, tactical discussions

Maths

Trajectory angles, distance estimation, scoring and points calculation

Science

Forces and motion, gravity effects on projectiles, reaction times

PSHE

Teamwork, honesty in sport, dealing with competition, supporting others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position allowing visibility of all courts, move between groups during practice

Observation Focus

Throwing technique development, tactical understanding, teamwork quality

Intervention Points

Step in if throwing too high, over-competitive behaviour, or rule confusion

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion technique breakdowns, highlight good examples from students, maintain enthusiasm throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Step and throw down!'
•'Low throws are harder to catch!'
•'Work as a team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area, minimum 15m x 20m per court

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Soft foam balls only - check for damage
•Cones stable and visible
•No hard or dangerous throwing objects

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impacts to head/face
•Collisions during game play
•Slips during quick movements
•Over-competitive behaviour

Risk Mitigation

•Enforce below-waist throwing rule strictly
•Clear court boundaries to prevent collisions
•Soft foam balls reduce impact injury
•Active supervision and rule enforcement
•Emphasise fair play and honesty

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all courts
•Monitor throwing height constantly
•Watch for signs of over-competitiveness
•Ensure inclusive participation

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately for any injury, assess need for first aid, contact school medical officer if required