Lesson 3 - Introduction to Backhand Shots
Technique to Doubles Tactics
•Year 4
•Tennis
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How can we use both sides of our body to become more successful tennis players?
Learning Objectives
- To introduce and practice backhand shots with developing control
- To understand the differences between forehand and backhand techniques
- To transfer skills from hand practice to racquet use in backhand shots
Key Outcomes
- Students will perform backhand shots using both hands and racquets
- Students will identify key differences between forehand and backhand shots
- Students will demonstrate improved ball control and positioning skills
Equipment & Resources Required
Check racquets are appropriate size for Year 4 students
Alternative: Table tennis bats, small racquets, or hands only
Balls should be soft enough for floor play and safe for indoor use
Alternative: Foam balls, low-pressure tennis balls, bean bags
Set up 'nets' approximately 60cm high in playing areas
Alternative: Benches, rope between posts, chalk lines
Use to mark court boundaries and playing areas
Alternative: Chalk, spots, hoops
Key Vocabulary
A tennis shot hit with the back of the hand facing the direction of the shot
Balanced stance with knees bent, weight on balls of feet, ready to move in any direction
Continuous hitting of the ball back and forth between players
Dropping or throwing the ball to yourself to practice hitting
How you hold the tennis racquet
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Students can perform basic forehand shots
- Students understand ready position and basic footwork
- Students can maintain simple rallies with forehand shots
Current Skills
- Introduction to backhand grip and body position
- Understanding of dominant and non-dominant side play
- Developing hand-eye coordination for backhand shots
Next Steps
- Refining backhand technique with consistent racquet use
- Combining forehand and backhand shots in game situations
- Developing tactical awareness of when to use each shot
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Backhand is hit on opposite side to dominant hand - left side for right-handed, right side for left-handed
- Back of hand faces the direction of shot in backhand technique
- Body must turn towards backhand side with shoulder facing the net
- Grip change from forehand to backhand is essential for proper technique
- Cooperative rallies build confidence before competitive applications
- Movement to the ball is crucial for successful backhand shots
- Progression from hand practice to racquet use ensures understanding
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: 'Backhand is just hitting on the other side' - Correction: Explain grip change, body position, and technique differences are essential
- Misconception: 'I can use forehand grip for backhand' - Correction: Demonstrate how grip change affects control and power
- Misconception: 'Backhand is too difficult for Year 4' - Correction: Show progression from hands to racquet builds confidence and success
- Misconception: 'Rally is about winning points' - Correction: Emphasise cooperation and skill development over competition
- Misconception: 'I don't need to move my feet for backhand' - Correction: Show how positioning affects shot success and control
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments with frequent changes, clear boundaries and simple rules, regular positive reinforcement for focus
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier handling, extra practice time for grip changes, step-by-step breakdown of movements with physical support
autism spectrum
- Clear structure with visual schedule, quiet zones available for breaks, consistent routines and familiar equipment
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of backhand grip and body position, partner support for positioning
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of all techniques, written instruction cards, clear visual signals for activity changes
physical disability
- Adapted grips or straps for racquet holding, seated versions of activities where appropriate, modified targets and distances
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Vocabulary development with tennis terminology, clear communication during activities, descriptive language for technique differences
Maths
Counting rally points, calculating double points for backhand shots, measuring court distances and angles of shots
Science
Understanding forces in ball contact, exploring how grip changes affect ball direction, body mechanics in backhand vs forehand movements
PSHE
Cooperation and communication during partner work, perseverance when learning difficult skills, setting realistic personal goals
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around the hall to observe all pairs, position near struggling learners during skill development
Observation Focus
Watch for correct backhand grip, appropriate body positioning, and cooperative rally behaviour
Intervention Points
Step in when students revert to forehand grip, provide individual guidance for grip changes, support pairs struggling with rally cooperation
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Use exaggerated movements for grip changes, show clear difference between forehand and backhand body positions, model cooperative rally behaviour with volunteer
Verbal Cues
- •'Back of hand leads the way!'
- •'Turn that shoulder!'
- •'Work together, not against each other!'
- •'Gentle contact for control!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 10m hall space, or outdoor hard court area with adequate boundaries
Surface Check
Non-slip surface free from water or debris, suitable for running and quick direction changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check racquets for cracks or sharp edges before use
- •Ensure balls are in good condition and appropriate softness
- •Verify cone nets are stable and appropriate height
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during rally activities
- •Racquet contact with other students or equipment
- •Slips from quick movements or overreaching for balls
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established between rally pairs
- •Adequate spacing (minimum 3m) between playing areas
- •Emphasis on controlled movements and gentle contact
- •Progressive skill building from hands to racquets
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all rally areas
- •Monitor grip changes and swing control
- •Watch for fatigue or frustration affecting safety
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately for any injury, assess severity, apply appropriate first aid, notify school procedures as required