Lesson 1 - Throwing and Dodging Fundamentals
Striking & Fielding Basics
•Year 5
•Danish Longball
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How can we use effective throwing and dodging techniques to work strategically as a team?
Learning Objectives
- To develop effective overarm throwing technique for accuracy and power
- To understand and apply dodging strategies in game situations
- To demonstrate teamwork skills when attacking and defending
Key Outcomes
- Students will throw with improved accuracy using low, hard throws
- Students will demonstrate effective dodging movements to evade attacks
- Students will show understanding of team tactics in invasion games
Equipment & Resources Required
Stored in equipment bag at hall centre for easy access
Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags for reduced impact
Sorted by colour for quick team identification
Alternative: Team bands, coloured markers
Used for boundaries and target practice
Alternative: Markers, spots for smaller spaces
Laid flat on floor for throwing accuracy practice
Alternative: Target mats, chalked circles
Mark central points and boundaries
Alternative: Chalk marks, small cones
Key Vocabulary
Throwing technique with arm raised above shoulder height for maximum power
Quick movement to avoid being hit by a thrown ball
Aiming the ball below waist height to make catching more difficult
Talking to teammates to coordinate defensive and offensive strategies
Planning and coordinating team movements to achieve game objectives
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching skills from Year 4
- Understanding of simple game rules
- Experience working in small groups
Current Skills
- Overarm throwing technique with power and accuracy
- Dodging and evasion movements
- Team communication and strategy
Next Steps
- Advanced Danish Longball tactics and formations
- Leadership roles in competitive games
- Complex throwing combinations and team plays
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Overarm throwing technique: high elbow, body rotation, low trajectory aim
- Effective dodging: watch thrower's eyes, quick directional changes, stay balanced
- Team communication: constant talking, supporting teammates, strategic positioning
- Below waist throwing rule for safety and effectiveness
- Honest gameplay: admit when hit, respect opponents and teammates
- Progressive skill development: technique before power, practice before game application
Common Misconceptions
- High throws are easier to make - actually low throws are harder to catch and more effective
- Throwing harder is always better - accuracy and technique are more important than raw power
- Individual skills matter most - teamwork and communication are crucial for success
- Being hit means you failed - it's part of the game and learning process
- Soft balls don't hurt so safety doesn't matter - proper technique and rules still essential
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries marked, regular positive reinforcement, additional movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Larger, softer balls, reduced complexity in multi-step activities, extra practice time, simplified instructions
autism spectrum
- Clear activity structure with visual schedule, quiet zone available, predictable routine with advance warning of changes
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls with bells inside, verbal descriptions of all activities, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for game instructions, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Modified throwing distances, seated throwing options, adapted balls (lighter/larger), peer support partnerships
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Calculating team scores, measuring throwing distances, angles and trajectories of throws
Science
Forces in throwing, projectile motion, reaction times and reflexes
Geography
Spatial awareness, directional language, mapping game strategies and movements
PSHE
Teamwork skills, leadership development, dealing with winning and losing positively
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Corner of hall for maximum visibility, move between activities during practice phases
Observation Focus
Throwing technique development, team communication quality, safety compliance
Intervention Points
Step in when throws too high, poor sportsmanship, or unsafe play observed
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for technique teaching, model positive communication constantly
Verbal Cues
- •'High elbow, body twist!' for throwing technique
- •'Below waist only!' for safety reminders
- •'Talk to your team!' for communication encouragement
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Full sports hall or large outdoor area minimum 20m x 15m with clear boundaries
Surface Check
Non-slip surface free from obstacles, adequate run-off space around playing area
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Soft dodgeballs only - check for proper inflation and surface damage
- •Traffic cones with rounded edges only
- •Hoops laid flat to prevent tripping hazards
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impact injuries from hard throws
- •Collisions between running students
- •Slips and falls during dodging movements
- •Overexertion during high-intensity activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Below waist throwing rule strictly enforced throughout
- •Adequate spacing between activities and groups
- •Progressive skill building before full game application
- •Soft balls only with regular equipment checks
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all activities simultaneously
- •Monitor throwing technique to prevent dangerous throws
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury severity, apply appropriate first aid, contact office if medical attention required