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Lesson 1 - Throwing and Catching Skills

Skill Foundations in Rounders

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Year 4

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Rounders

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Big Question

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

Tennis Balls

30 (1 per student)

Distributed around area perimeter for easy collection

Alternative: Bean bags for beginners, playground balls for easier catching

Cones

Used for boundaries and target positions

Alternative: Marker domes or any visible markers

Hoops

Positioned as starting points for activities

Alternative: Chalk circles or rope circles

Balls

8 (optional)

Available for students who need easier catching practice

Alternative: Soft balls or foam balls

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in an arc

Underarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm swings from below in an upward arc

Opposite foot forward

Stepping forward with the foot opposite to your throwing arm

Target

The specific area or person you are aiming to throw the ball to

Tracking

Following the ball with your eyes from release to catch

Soft hands

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

Consistent foot placement when throwing

Tracking ball flight with eyes throughout catch

Quick retrieval and accurate return throws

Confident participation in game situations

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