Lesson 1 - Javelin Passing & Catching
Skills & Tactics Progression
•Year 4
•Handball
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How can we work together to keep possession of the ball while moving into space?
Learning Objectives
- Develop accurate javelin-style passing technique in handball
- Improve catching skills whilst moving and in static positions
- Understand tactical awareness when working with and against others in attack and defence
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved accuracy in javelin-style handball passes
- Students will successfully catch handballs whilst on the move using correct technique
- Students will show understanding of space and communication in small-sided games
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed around the playing area for easy access
Alternative: Size 3 footballs, netballs, or dodgeballs
Used to mark boundaries and playing areas
Alternative: Flat markers, bean bags, or chalk lines
For team identification in games
Alternative: Bands, pinnies, or different coloured t-shirts
For timing activities and challenges
Alternative: Phone timer or large clock
For recording assessment evidence
Alternative: Phone with video capability
Key Vocabulary
A one-handed overhead throw where the ball is released with a straight arm action
Hand position for catching where thumbs and forefingers form a 'W' shape to create a target
Gentle, relaxed catching technique that cushions the ball on impact
Athletic stance with weight on balls of feet, knees slightly bent, hands ready
Moving to an area where you can receive a pass without being closely marked
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching with two hands
- Understanding of simple game rules
- Experience working in pairs and small groups
- Basic spatial awareness and moving safely
Current Skills
- Javelin-style one-handed passing technique
- Catching whilst moving using W-hands target
- Communication through hand signals
- Working with and against others in game situations
Next Steps
- Passing under pressure from defenders
- More complex game tactics and strategies
- Shooting at goal with accuracy
- Advanced movement patterns and team play
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Javelin passing requires correct grip with fingers spread behind the ball
- W-hands target and soft hands technique essential for successful catching
- Communication through hand signals improves team performance significantly
- Moving into space after passing creates opportunities for teammates
- Ready position with weight on balls of feet enables quick movement
- Game situations require balance between individual skills and team tactics
- Progressive difficulty from static to moving to game application builds confidence
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking javelin pass is the same as basketball pass - emphasise the one-handed, straight-arm technique
- Believing catching is just about hands - stress the importance of body position and movement
- Assuming game success is only about individual skill - highlight the importance of teamwork and communication
- Thinking defenders should always try to steal the ball - teach reading and anticipation over aggressive tackling
- Believing speed is more important than accuracy - emphasise control and technique over power
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use movement breaks between activities
dyspraxia
- Use larger, softer balls for easier catching, provide additional practice time, break skills down into smaller components
autism spectrum
- Provide clear routine and structure, use visual schedules for activity sequence, offer quiet break space if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls and high contrast cones, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, use sound cues for ball release and catching
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals and demonstrations, provide written instruction cards, ensure student can see teacher's face for lip reading
physical disability
- Modify throwing technique to seated or supported position, use lighter balls or bean bags, adjust distances and height requirements
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following complex instructions, using specific vocabulary, describing and evaluating performance
Maths
Counting successful passes and catches, measuring distances for throwing, calculating scores and time intervals in games
Science
Understanding forces in throwing, trajectory and bounce physics, coordination and balance in movement
Geography
Spatial awareness and direction, understanding of area and boundaries, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation skills, building resilience through challenge, communicating effectively with others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position at the edge of activity areas with clear sight lines to all students, move actively between groups during practice phases
Observation Focus
Watch for correct grip and throwing technique, monitor spacing and communication, assess tactical understanding in games
Intervention Points
Step in when technique becomes unsafe, when students struggle with tactical concepts, or when conflicts arise in team situations
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements for technique demonstrations, involve confident students to model good practice, break down complex skills into smaller steps
Verbal Cues
- •'Spread those fingers behind the ball!'
- •'Show me your W-hands target!'
- •'Signal with your hands when you want the ball!'
- •'Move after you pass!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 25m x 40m playing area with clear run-off zones of 2m on all sides
Surface Check
Level, non-slip surface free from obstacles, wet patches, or debris that could cause slips
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check balls are properly inflated and free from damage
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify adequate supply of balls to avoid sharing issues
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during movement activities
- •Falls due to quick direction changes or overreaching
- •Ball impact injuries from poor catching or throwing
- •Overexertion in competitive game situations
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established and communicated for all activities
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic movements
- •Emphasis on control over power in all throwing activities
- •Regular breaks and hydration opportunities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to see all students during throwing activities
- •Move actively between groups during pair and team work
- •Pay particular attention to game areas for contact levels
- •Monitor energy levels and technique deterioration
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately using clear signal, assess any injuries with appropriate first aid, have emergency contact details readily available