Lesson 1 - Throwing and Catching Fundamentals
Team Performance Skills
•Year 4
•Rounders
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How can we develop accuracy and control in our throwing and catching to become effective rounders players?
Learning Objectives
- Develop effective throwing technique using correct grip and underarm action
- Master catching technique with soft hands and proper body positioning
- Apply throwing and catching skills in dynamic movement situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved throwing accuracy with correct grip and underarm technique
- Students will show confident catching with cushioned impact and secure ball control
- Students will successfully apply skills when moving laterally and under time pressure
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed around activity area perimeter for easy collection
Alternative: Soft cricket balls, rounders balls
Used to mark boundaries and activity zones
Alternative: Bean bags, markers
For timed challenges and assessments
Alternative: Phone timer, wall clock
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm swings from below shoulder height in an upward arc
Catching technique where hands give way slightly on impact to cushion the ball
A specific area or position to aim for when throwing
How to hold the ball correctly for throwing
Moving sideways to intercept or receive a ball
Absorbing the impact of 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 earlier units
- Understanding of personal space and movement
- Simple catching with large balls
- Following multi-step instructions
Current Skills
- Correct throwing grip and underarm technique
- Catching with soft hands and proper positioning
- Throwing and catching while moving
- Working effectively with partners
Next Steps
- Throwing for distance and height
- Catching at different levels
- Tactical application in rounders games
- Bowling and batting skills
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Correct grip with two fingers over top of ball for throwing control
- Underarm throwing technique with opposite foot forward and smooth arm swing
- Soft hands catching with cushioned impact and secure ball control
- Moving feet to get in line with ball rather than reaching across body
- Partnership cooperation and positive communication during challenges
- Building confidence through progressive skill development
- Connecting skills to real game situations in rounders
Common Misconceptions
- Throwing overarm is always better - underarm gives more accuracy for short distances
- Catching hard with rigid hands is stronger - soft hands provide better control
- Moving faster always helps - controlled movement is more effective
- Perfect technique comes immediately - skill development takes practice and patience
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear movement boundaries, regular positive reinforcement and feedback
dyspraxia
- Simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time, larger equipment for easier success
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available for breaks when needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls, clear verbal descriptions of technique, buddy system for guidance and support
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations emphasised, clear hand signals for instructions, written technique reminders available
physical disability
- Seated throwing and catching options, modified distances, larger or softer balls as appropriate
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting catches and throws, measuring distances, timing challenges, angles of throwing
Science
Forces in throwing and catching, gravity effects on ball flight, reaction times, body systems during exercise
Geography
Directions and spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns, understanding of coordinates
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, perseverance through challenges, positive self-assessment, encouraging others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move continuously around the space to observe technique and provide individual feedback
Observation Focus
Watch for correct grip, throwing technique, catching with soft hands, and safe movement patterns
Intervention Points
Step in when technique is unsafe, students are struggling with tasks, or behaviour affects learning
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements for technique demonstration, involve students in showing good examples
Verbal Cues
- •'Two fingers over the top for good grip!'
- •'Soft hands - let them give way when the ball arrives!'
- •'Move your feet to get in line with the ball!'
- •'Step into your throw for more accuracy!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 30m with clear boundaries, suitable for lateral movement and throwing activities
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, with adequate grip for quick directional changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Tennis balls in good condition without cracks or damage
- •Adequate number of balls to avoid sharing conflicts
- •Clear storage and collection procedures
- •Cones with no sharp edges or trip hazards
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impact injuries from throws
- •Collisions during lateral movement
- •Slips and falls during direction changes
- •Overexertion during timed challenges
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and adequate spacing between pairs
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
- •Emphasis on controlled movement and awareness
- •Regular breaks and hydration opportunities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all activities
- •Move regularly to observe different groups
- •Monitor high-activity areas during challenges
- •Immediate intervention for unsafe practices
Emergency Procedures
Established stop signal, clear first aid access, appropriate response protocols for injuries