Lesson 1 - Throwing and Catching Skills
Skill Foundations in Rounders
•Year 4
•Rounders
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use accurate throwing and catching skills to become better rounders players?
Learning Objectives
- To develop overarm and underarm throwing techniques with increasing accuracy
- To improve catching skills using proper technique and body positioning
- To apply throwing and catching skills in game-like situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct overarm and underarm throwing technique
- Students will catch balls consistently using appropriate body positioning
- Students will apply these skills in competitive game scenarios
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed around area perimeter for easy collection
Alternative: Bean bags for beginners, playground balls for easier catching
Used for boundaries and target positions
Alternative: Marker domes or any visible markers
Positioned as starting points for activities
Alternative: Chalk circles or rope circles
Available for students who need easier catching practice
Alternative: Soft balls or foam balls
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in an arc
A throwing technique where the arm swings from below in an upward arc
Stepping forward with the foot opposite to your throwing arm
The specific area or person you are aiming to throw the ball to
Following the ball with your eyes from release to catch
Relaxed hands that cushion the ball when catching
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling skills from previous year groups
- Understanding of personal space and movement
- Experience with simple throwing and catching games
Current Skills
- Overarm throwing technique with accuracy
- Underarm throwing for specific distances
- Active catching using appropriate body positioning
- Application of skills in game contexts
Next Steps
- Advanced throwing techniques for different situations
- Catching under pressure in competitive games
- Tactical application in full rounders games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Opposite foot steps forward when throwing - emphasise this for both overarm and underarm
- Eyes must track the ball throughout its flight when catching - from thrower's hand to own hands
- Soft hands cushion the ball on contact - demonstrate contrast with rigid hands
- Straight arm action for underarm throws like a pendulum - show consistent motion
- High elbow position for overarm throws - elbow level with shoulder
- Follow through points towards target - fingers point where ball should go
- Quick ball retrieval and communication essential for effective fielding
Common Misconceptions
- Students often use same foot as throwing arm instead of opposite foot - correct immediately
- Many try to throw with maximum power rather than focusing on accuracy - emphasise control first
- Catching with rigid hands that bounce ball away - demonstrate soft hand technique repeatedly
- Confusion about when to use overarm vs underarm throws - explain distance and accuracy applications
- Looking away from ball too early during catching - practice extended ball tracking
- Poor understanding of tactical ball placement - connect throwing skills to game strategy
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments with frequent position changes, clear boundaries marked, regular movement breaks integrated
dyspraxia
- Larger balls initially, reduced complexity in multi-step skills, additional practice time, step-by-step visual guides
autism spectrum
- Clear visual routine cards, consistent structure with warning of transitions, designated quiet zone if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls, provide clear verbal cues for ball location, establish buddy system for guidance and safety
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, establish visual signals for game play
physical disability
- Seated throwing and catching options, modified distances, larger balls for easier handling, adapted game rules
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances for game setup, counting consecutive throws, scoring and recording points during activities
Science
Understanding forces and motion in ball flight, exploring gravity effects on trajectory, discussing body mechanics during throwing
Geography
Using directional language during throwing practice, understanding spatial relationships and positioning
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation during partner work, resilience when facing challenges, fair play and honesty during games
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter during individual work, stand centrally for demonstrations, position between groups during game play for optimal supervision
Observation Focus
Watch for correct foot positioning, arm action during throws, eye tracking during catches, and safe movement patterns
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with basic technique, unsafe throwing occurring, or poor sportsmanship during games
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Use exaggerated movements to show technique clearly, break down complex skills into component parts, repeat demonstrations as needed for different learning styles
Verbal Cues
- •'Opposite foot forward!'
- •'Eyes on the ball!'
- •'Soft hands for catching!'
- •'Point your fingers to your target!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area or large indoor hall, clear of obstacles and hazards
Surface Check
Even, dry surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas that could cause slips or falls
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Tennis balls checked for cracks or damage that could cause injuries
- •Cones have no sharp edges and are appropriate height
- •Hoops are intact with no broken sections
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to head or body during throwing practice
- •Collisions between students during movement activities
- •Slips and falls during running in game situations
- •Equipment-related trips from poor storage
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established with adequate spacing between groups
- •Progressive skill building from individual to partner to group work
- •Specific throwing lanes designated to prevent ball interference
- •Equipment stored safely away from movement areas during activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups during game play
- •Monitor high-activity areas during throw and run game
- •Check technique to prevent overexertion during throwing practice
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or call for medical support as needed