Lesson 1 - Ball Handling and Basic Catching
Foundations & High 5 Skills
•Year 4
•Netball
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How can I develop excellent ball control to become a confident netball player?
Learning Objectives
- To develop fundamental ball handling skills with increasing control and precision
- To master throwing and catching techniques in static and dynamic situations
- To understand the importance of warming up and its effects on the body
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved ball control through various handling activities
- Students will execute throws and catches with greater accuracy and consistency
- Students will explain what happens to their body during warm-up activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Place around perimeter of area for easy collection
Alternative: Size 4 basketballs, rubber balls if netballs unavailable
Use for marking spaces, boundaries, and activity stations
Alternative: Markers, spots, or bean bags for positioning
Key Vocabulary
A pass thrown from chest height using both hands, pushing the ball forward
Balanced stance with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, hands ready
The ability to control and manipulate the ball using hands and fingers
Receiving the ball safely using both hands, pulling into the body
Bouncing the ball continuously using fingertips to maintain control
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic spatial awareness and movement patterns
- Simple throwing and catching with large balls
- Understanding of personal space and safety
Current Skills
- Netball-specific ball handling techniques
- Chest passing and catching fundamentals
- Dynamic ball control whilst moving
Next Steps
- Positional play and specific netball rules
- Advanced passing techniques (shoulder pass, bounce pass)
- Game application with defensive pressure
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always use two hands when catching to ensure secure grip and control
- Step forward with opposite foot when passing for power and accuracy
- Maintain ready position with knees bent and hands visible when receiving
- Keep eyes on the ball throughout flight path for successful catching
- Use soft, cushioned hands rather than rigid grip for ball control
- Communicate clearly with teammates through eye contact and verbal calls
- Practice spatial awareness to avoid collisions during dynamic activities
Common Misconceptions
- That one-handed catching is easier - emphasise two hands for security and control
- That throwing harder equals better passing - focus on accuracy and appropriate force
- That looking away from ball during flight won't affect catching - stress continuous visual tracking
- That ready position isn't important - demonstrate how poor position leads to missed catches
- That warming up is just running around - explain specific body preparation benefits
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, immediate feedback
dyspraxia
- Larger, lighter balls initially, reduced complexity, extra practice time, clear step-by-step instructions
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet area available if overwhelmed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured netballs, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written activity cards
physical disability
- Seated catching activities, modified equipment size, adapted distances for throwing
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting successful catches, measuring distances for throwing, angles of passes and movement patterns
Science
Forces applied in throwing, gravity's effect on ball flight, body systems working during exercise
Geography
Directions and spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns around court
PSHE
Teamwork skills, supporting others, managing emotions during challenging activities, fair play
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at corner of area for visibility, move frequently during activities
Observation Focus
Watch for proper catching technique, spatial awareness, and safety
Intervention Points
["Step in if students struggling with ball control", "Support partner activities that aren't working", "Address safety concerns immediately"]
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate with exaggerated movements for visibility, use students to demonstrate good technique when possible
Verbal Cues
- •'Two hands for catching!'
- •'Step forward when passing!'
- •'Eyes on the ball!'
- •'Ready position!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 15m indoor or outdoor space, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, free from debris, adequate drainage if outdoor
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Netballs properly inflated and inspected for damage
- •Cones checked for sharp edges or cracks
- •Storage area accessible for safe equipment return
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impacts from catching activities
- •Collisions during running and dynamic movement
- •Slips during direction changes and jumping
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and spacing established
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
- •Constant supervision during partner activities
- •Emergency stop signal understood by all
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all students
- •Move around area during partner work
- •Monitor high-activity areas for fatigue
- •Watch for equipment hazards
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support as trained