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Lesson 1 - Ball Handling and Basic Catching

Foundations & High 5 Skills

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Year 4

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Netball

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Big Question

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

Netball

1 per student (30)

Place around perimeter of area for easy collection

Alternative: Size 4 basketballs, rubber balls if netballs unavailable

Cones

30 (various colours)

Use for marking spaces, boundaries, and activity stations

Alternative: Markers, spots, or bean bags for positioning

Key Vocabulary

Chest pass

A pass thrown from chest height using both hands, pushing the ball forward

Ready position

Balanced stance with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, hands ready

Ball handling

The ability to control and manipulate the ball using hands and fingers

Catching

Receiving the ball safely using both hands, pulling into the body

Dribbling

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

Consistent catching with two hands without dropping

Accurate chest pass over 2-3 metre distance

Maintaining ball control whilst moving at speed

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