Lesson 6 - Catching in Dodgeball
Tactical Awareness Skills
•Year 4
•Dodgeball
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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
Use for boundaries and centre dividing line
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines, or floor tape
Size 6 or 7 balls suitable for Year 4 hands
Alternative: Soft foam balls, playground balls
Key Vocabulary
Using both hands to securely collect and control a ball
Moving your whole body behind the ball's flight path
Knees bent, hands out, eyes focused on the ball
A catch that allows eliminated teammates to re-enter the game
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
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