🤾

Lesson 6 - Catching in Dodgeball

Tactical Awareness Skills

•

Year 4

•

Dodgeball

•

45 min

Big Question

How can I use my whole body to catch a dodgeball and turn defence into attack?

Learning Objectives

To develop the skill of catching a dodgeball using correct technique
To apply catching skills tactically to help teammates re-enter the game
To demonstrate confidence and respect in competitive situations

Key Outcomes

Students will catch dodgeballs using proper body positioning
Students will use catching as a tactical element to gain team advantage
Students will show respect and sportsmanship during game play

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Use for boundaries and centre dividing line

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines, or floor tape

Dodgeball

Size 6 or 7 balls suitable for Year 4 hands

Alternative: Soft foam balls, playground balls

Key Vocabulary

Catching

Using both hands to securely collect and control a ball

Body positioning

Moving your whole body behind the ball's flight path

Ready position

Knees bent, hands out, eyes focused on the ball

Golden catch

A catch that allows eliminated teammates to re-enter the game

Snatching in

Pulling the ball quickly into your body after contact

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills
Understanding of dodgeball rules
Ability to throw accurately

Current Skills

Two-handed catching technique
Body positioning for catching
Tactical application of catching

Next Steps

Advanced catching under pressure
Complex team strategies
Leadership in game situations

Milestone Indicators

Consistent catching technique

Confident movement to catch

Strategic use of catching

Key Teaching Points

Watch the ball throughout its entire flight path
Move whole body to get behind the ball, not just hands
Use the 'fold and snatch' technique - let ball hit body then secure quickly
Maintain ready position with bent knees and hands out
Catching is tactical - it eliminates opponents and returns teammates
Show confidence when attempting catches under pressure
Demonstrate respect for all players regardless of skill level

Common Misconceptions

Thinking only hands are needed for catching - emphasise whole body movement
Believing dodging is always safer than catching - explain tactical advantages
Assuming catching is just about reflexes - highlight the technique components
Thinking aggressive play shows skill - reinforce that control and respect demonstrate mastery

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, immediate positive feedback

dyspraxia

Break down catching into smaller steps, use larger equipment, additional practice time

autism spectrum

Clear structure with visual schedule, quiet space available, consistent routines

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, audio cues for ball location, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for instructions, written rule cards

physical disability

Modified catching from seated position, larger balls, reduced throwing distances

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, using technical vocabulary correctly

Science

Forces in catching (absorption, momentum), body systems during exercise

Mathematics

Calculating team scores, measuring distances, understanding angles of throws

PSHE

Teamwork, resilience when eliminated, managing competitive emotions

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of activity area to observe all students and provide feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct catching technique, positive interactions, and confidence development

Intervention Points

Step in when throws become too aggressive, technique breaks down, or negative behaviours emerge

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion demonstrations for technique, fast demonstrations for game scenarios

Verbal Cues

•'Watch the ball!'
•'Get your body behind it!'
•'Fold around the ball!'
•'Confident movement!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 15m clear area, ideally sports hall or large playground

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check dodgeballs are properly inflated but not over-hard
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Balls appropriate size for Year 4 hands

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impacts to head/face area
•Collisions between moving students
•Slips and falls during dynamic movement
•Overexertion during game play

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise below-shoulder targeting only
•Maintain clear boundaries and adequate space
•Progress throwing intensity gradually
•Regular hydration breaks

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all activity
•Monitor throwing force and targeting
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration

Emergency Procedures

Stop play immediately for any injury, assess severity, apply appropriate first aid, contact school medical support if needed