Lesson 2 - Throwing at Moving Targets
Fair Play to Tournament Skills
•Year 5
•Dodgeball
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we improve our accuracy when throwing at targets that are constantly moving?
Learning Objectives
- To develop throwing accuracy at moving targets
- To understand and apply different throwing techniques in game situations
- To evaluate performance and suggest improvements
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved throwing accuracy at moving targets
- Students will apply various throwing techniques effectively in game contexts
- Students will evaluate their own and others' performance constructively
Equipment & Resources Required
Use to mark boundaries, targets, and team areas
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines
Distribute evenly around teaching area perimeter
Alternative: Foam balls, tennis balls (for younger students)
For team identification in group activities
Alternative: House bands, team markers
Key Vocabulary
Continuing the throwing motion after release, with hand pointing towards target
Throwing ahead of a moving target to intercept their path
The path the ball takes through the air
Moving quickly to avoid being hit by the ball
The ability to hit the intended target consistently
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing techniques (underarm and overarm)
- Understanding of personal space and spatial awareness
- Basic catching skills
Current Skills
- Throwing at moving targets
- Adapting throwing technique for different situations
- Evaluating and improving performance
Next Steps
- Advanced throwing strategies in competitive games
- Leading and coaching others in throwing techniques
- Complex game tactics and teamwork
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Follow-through with hand pointing at target is essential for accuracy
- Target the feet area as it's harder to catch balls thrown low
- Lead moving targets by throwing where they will be, not where they are
- Honest play and good sportsmanship make games enjoyable for all
- Controlled throwing force ensures safety while maintaining effectiveness
- Regular rotation ensures all students get equal practice opportunities
- Adapt throwing technique based on target movement and distance
Common Misconceptions
- Throwing harder always means more accuracy - teach control over power
- Aiming at the body centre is best - explain why feet targeting is more effective
- Good throwers are born that way - emphasise that technique can be learned and improved
- Moving targets are impossible to hit - demonstrate leading technique
- Winning is more important than fair play - reinforce sportsmanship values
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback, opportunities for movement throughout
dyspraxia
- Larger balls initially, reduced distances, extra practice time, simplified movement patterns, peer support
autism spectrum
- Clear routines and consistent rules, quiet zones available if needed, visual schedule of lesson activities
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and verbal cues for direction, buddy system for movement, tactile boundaries where possible
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for game rules, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Seated throwing options available, modified throwing distances, larger target areas, alternative roles as coaches
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Angles and trajectory calculations, distance measurement, probability and accuracy percentages, timing and coordination
Science
Forces and motion, projectile movement, reaction times, physics of ball flight and air resistance
Geography
Direction and movement, spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns across areas
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, honesty and integrity, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' success
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter for full visibility, position near centre during demonstrations, stay mobile during games to monitor all areas
Observation Focus
Watch for follow-through technique, accurate targeting, fair play and honesty, appropriate throwing force
Intervention Points
Step in if throwing too hard, correct technique immediately, address any unfair play, support struggling students
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for follow-through, show clear contrast between good and poor technique, involve students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Point to your target after throwing!'
- •'Aim for the feet!'
- •'Lead the target - throw where they're going!'
- •'Great sportsmanship - well done!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 15m with clear boundaries
Surface Check
Non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards, adequate space around activity areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check dodgeballs are appropriately inflated and not over-hard
- •Ensure balls are suitable size and weight for age group
- •Cones positioned safely without sharp edges
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impacts to head/face area
- •Collisions between moving students
- •Slips during direction changes
- •Overexertion during continuous activity
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise controlled throwing force throughout
- •Clear boundaries and movement rules established
- •Regular rotation to prevent fatigue
- •Target feet/lower body only
- •Immediate stop signal established and practiced
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all activity areas
- •Monitor throwing force and technique constantly
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
- •Ensure fair play and rotation adherence
Emergency Procedures
Immediate stop signal if any unsafe play, appropriate first aid for any impacts, clear communication with school office if required