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Lesson 2 - Forehand Throw & Intercepts

Tactical Mastery Through Ultimate Frisbee

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Year 5

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Ultimate Frisbee

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1h 20min

Big Question

How can precise throwing technique and tactical positioning help us control the disc in Ultimate Frisbee?

Learning Objectives

To develop accurate forehand throwing technique with proper grip and release
To understand and apply interception skills through body positioning and anticipation
To demonstrate effective communication and teamwork during disc-based activities

Key Outcomes

Students will execute forehand throws with consistent accuracy over 4-metre distances
Students will position themselves effectively to intercept passes using tactical awareness
Students will communicate clearly with teammates using verbal and non-verbal signals

Equipment & Resources Required

Frisbees

1 per 2 students (15)

Distribute around activity area perimeter

Alternative: Flying discs, soft frisbees for beginners

Coloured Cones

Mark boundaries, triangles, and 5-metre lines

Alternative: Markers, spots, bean bags

Bibs

15 (one set)

For team identification in games

Alternative: Team bands, coloured t-shirts

Measuring Tapes

For accurate 4-metre and 5-metre spacing

Alternative: Pre-marked distances with cones

Key Vocabulary

Forehand throw

A throwing technique using thumb, index and middle finger with disc released from outside to inside

Interception

Catching or deflecting a disc intended for an opponent

Defensive positioning

Standing sideways to see both the disc and your opponent simultaneously

Creating angles

Moving to positions that make it easier for teammates to pass accurately

Transfer of weight

Shifting body weight to deceive defenders and create space

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic disc catching and handling from Lesson 1
Understanding of Ultimate Frisbee basic rules
Experience with simple throwing motions

Current Skills

Forehand throwing technique with proper grip
Defensive positioning and interception skills
Creating angles and space for teammates

Next Steps

Backhand throwing variations
Advanced defensive strategies
Game tactics and team formations

Milestone Indicators

Consistent forehand accuracy over 4+ metres

Successful interceptions in practice situations

Clear communication during game scenarios

Key Teaching Points

Three-finger grip is fundamental - thumb, index and middle finger only
Outside-to-inside throwing motion creates proper spin and accuracy
Defensive positioning must allow sight of both disc and opponent simultaneously
Communication through eye contact and verbal signals is essential for team success
Technique maintenance under game pressure separates good from excellent players
Creating space through movement and deception opens passing opportunities
Team cooperation and encouragement enhances individual and group performance

Common Misconceptions

More power makes better throws - actually technique and accuracy are more important
Defenders should only watch their opponent - they must see both disc and player
Throwing straight forward is correct - forehand requires outside-to-inside motion
Ring and pinkie fingers help with grip - they should stay completely out of the way
Game success only depends on individual skill - team communication is equally crucial

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with regular changes, clear boundaries marked, frequent positive feedback, movement breaks between instructions

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, reduced complexity in multi-step activities, extra practice time for skill development, simplified game rules initially

autism spectrum

Clear structured routines, visual activity schedules, quiet zones available, predictable team formations and consistent rules

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured frisbees, clear verbal cues for all activities, buddy system for movement, textured cones for boundaries

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with exaggerated movements, written instruction cards, clear hand signals for communication, visual scoring systems

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, modified distances, larger/softer frisbees, adapted tagging rules for wheelchair users

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring 4-metre and 5-metre distances, counting catches in sequences, calculating game scores and statistics

Science

Forces and motion in frisbee flight, aerodynamics and spin effects, trajectory and angles

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, mapping movement patterns, understanding directions and space

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, communication skills, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during practice, central position during demonstrations, side of court during games for full visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct grip formation, throwing accuracy, defensive positioning, and team communication

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for technique corrections, safety concerns, or rule clarifications

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion for technique teaching, select appropriate student models, exaggerate key points for visibility

Verbal Cues

•'Three fingers - thumb, index, middle!'
•'Outside to inside motion!'
•'See both disc and opponent!'
•'Communicate with your team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Netball court or equivalent (30m x 15m minimum) with clear run-off areas

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris or water hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check frisbees for cracks or sharp edges before use
•Ensure cones are stable and visible
•Bibs/pinnies in good condition without tears

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Frisbee strikes to head/face area
•Collisions during running activities
•Slips and falls on playing surface

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear throwing zones and safe directions
•Maintain adequate spacing between activity groups
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic activities
•Emphasise controlled throwing speeds throughout

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all throwing activities
•Monitor high-activity areas during game situations
•Check tagging technique remains below chest height

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if serious