Lesson 1 - Throwing for Accuracy and Movement
Throwing Tactics & Strategy
•Year 6
•Danish Longball
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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
Distributed in equipment bags around activity areas
Alternative: Foam balls, cricket balls for advanced students
Set up target courses and boundary markers
Alternative: Spots, bean bags, or hoops
For marking wall targets and court boundaries
Alternative: Masking tape or rope
For team identification in competitive activities
Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in an arc, used for power and distance
The continuation of the throwing motion after the ball is released, improving accuracy and power
Predicting where the ball or opponent will move before it happens
Understanding the best strategy or technique to use in different game situations
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
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