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Lesson 1 - Throwing for Accuracy and Movement

Throwing Tactics & Strategy

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Year 6

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Danish Longball

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1h 8min

Big Question

How can I use different throwing techniques and movement patterns to outwit my opponents in target games?

Learning Objectives

To develop overarm and underarm throwing accuracy at still and moving targets
To demonstrate tactical awareness through anticipation and space creation
To work cooperatively and competitively while showing good sportsmanship

Key Outcomes

Students will throw with consistent accuracy using correct technique
Students will show improved anticipation and spatial awareness in game situations
Students will demonstrate effective cooperation and competitive spirit

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

1 per student (30)

Distributed in equipment bags around activity areas

Alternative: Foam balls, cricket balls for advanced students

Cones

40-50 mixed colours

Set up target courses and boundary markers

Alternative: Spots, bean bags, or hoops

Dish Cones

2-3 pieces

For marking wall targets and court boundaries

Alternative: Masking tape or rope

Bibs

15 (half the class)

For team identification in competitive activities

Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in an arc, used for power and distance

Follow-through

The continuation of the throwing motion after the ball is released, improving accuracy and power

Anticipation

Predicting where the ball or opponent will move before it happens

Tactical awareness

Understanding the best strategy or technique to use in different game situations

Space creation

Moving to find empty areas away from opponents or into advantageous positions

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and catching skills from Year 5
Understanding of personal space and movement in PE activities
Experience with simple target games and cooperative activities

Current Skills

Overarm throwing technique with accuracy and power
Tactical movement including dodging, anticipation and space creation
Competitive throwing games requiring strategy and skill application

Next Steps

Advanced Danish Longball tactics and team strategies
Pressure throwing in dynamic game situations
Leadership roles in organising and officiating throwing games

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accuracy hitting targets from 8-10 metres

Fluid throwing action with clear follow-through

Evidence of tactical thinking in game situations

Positive leadership and encouragement of others

Key Teaching Points

Overarm throwing technique requires sideways stance, non-throwing arm as target, and follow-through
Accuracy develops through consistent technique rather than increased power
Spatial awareness and anticipation are crucial for success in throwing games
Fair play and good sportsmanship enhance learning and enjoyment for everyone
Progressive challenge helps build confidence while maintaining motivation
Tactical thinking develops through questioning and reflection during activities
Safety awareness must be maintained throughout all throwing activities

Common Misconceptions

More power always equals better throwing - actually, technique and accuracy are more important
You must throw as hard as possible - controlled throws are often more effective
Looking at the ball while throwing helps accuracy - eyes should focus on the target
Winning is more important than learning - effort and improvement matter most
Only sporty students can be good at throwing - everyone can improve with practice
Gripping the ball tightly improves control - loose fingertip grip works better

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use movement breaks between static activities, offer choice in competitive level

dyspraxia

Use larger, slower balls for practice, provide additional demonstration and practice time, simplify movement patterns initially, pair with supportive partner

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of activities, establish quiet zones for breaks if needed, use consistent routines and language, give advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of targets and distances, establish clear audio signals for activity changes, pair with sighted buddy

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations and clear hand signals, provide written activity cards with instructions, establish visual start/stop signals, use vibrant visual cues

physical disability

Adapt throwing distances based on ability, allow seated throwing positions, provide larger or lighter balls as needed, modify competitive elements to ensure inclusion

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring throwing distances, calculating scores in Throw Golf, counting successful throws and catches, angle awareness in throwing

Science

Forces and motion in throwing actions, trajectory and gravity effects on ball flight, energy transfer from body to ball

Geography

Directional awareness in NESW activity, mapping throwing courses, spatial relationships in game positioning

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing competitive emotions, perseverance when facing challenges, celebrating others' success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position with clear view of all activities, move around to provide individual feedback during skill practice

Observation Focus

Watch for correct overarm technique, spatial awareness, effort and engagement, fair play and cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in if technique is unsafe, students struggling with concepts, competitive activities becoming too intense, equipment being misused

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to highlight key teaching points, demonstrate common mistakes to avoid, show progression from basic to advanced skills, use students as positive examples

Verbal Cues

•'Sideways stance like an archer!'
•'Point where you want it to go!'
•'Follow through like painting a line!'
•'Control the ball, don't let it control you!'
•'Accuracy first, speed second!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 25m x 35m with clear sightlines and adequate run-off areas

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles, holes, or slippery areas that could cause falls during dynamic movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tennis balls are in good condition without splits or damage
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks that could cause injury
•Verify wall surfaces are smooth without protruding fixtures
•Confirm throwing distances are appropriate for space available

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body from poor throwing control
•Collisions during dynamic movement activities
•Slips and falls during quick direction changes
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing lanes established with adequate spacing between pairs
•Controlled ball speed emphasised throughout all activities
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic throwing
•Clear boundaries and movement protocols established
•Regular safety reminders about awareness of others

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe multiple throwing lanes simultaneously
•Monitor competitive activities for appropriate intensity
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion in students
•Ensure equipment collection is safe and organised

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately on injury, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if required, complete accident report form