Lesson 3 - Catching Skills and Decision Making
Tactics & Team Dynamics
•Year 6
•Dodgeball
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When should I attempt to catch a dodgeball, and when should I dodge to help my team succeed?
Learning Objectives
- To develop catching skills when balls are thrown at pace and at different heights
- To understand when it is tactically wise to attempt a catch versus dodging
- To demonstrate understanding of rules and accept referee decisions with good sportsmanship
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully catch balls thrown at pace using correct technique
- Students will make tactical decisions about when to catch or dodge based on game situation
- Students will show respect for rules and officials' decisions throughout gameplay
Equipment & Resources Required
Check balls are properly inflated but not hard
Alternative: Large foam balls, playground balls
Create 2-3 clearly defined courts
Alternative: Markers, bibs as boundary markers
Ensure clear team identification
Alternative: Team bands, different coloured tops
For timing activities and games
Alternative: Phone timer, wall clock
Key Vocabulary
Catching technique where hands absorb the ball's impact by giving slightly
Hand position for catching - fingers up for balls above waist, down for below
Making a choice based on what's best for the team's success
Understanding what's happening around you during play
Playing fairly and respecting opponents, teammates, and officials
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching with a ball
- Understanding of dodgeball basic rules
- Awareness of personal space and safety in games
Current Skills
- Advanced catching technique under pressure
- Tactical decision-making in game situations
- Rules interpretation and sportsmanship
Next Steps
- Leading team strategy discussions
- Officiating games independently
- Teaching younger students dodgeball skills
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Soft hands technique is crucial - hands must absorb ball impact by giving slightly on contact
- Decision-making is as important as catching skill - smart dodges can be better than risky catch attempts
- Sportsmanship includes accepting referee decisions gracefully and supporting teammates
- Catching brings tactical advantages - all eliminated players return when catch is successful
- Body positioning behind ball flight path improves catching success significantly
- Watch ball from thrower's release all the way into hands - never look away early
- Team strategy should influence individual catch/dodge decisions
Common Misconceptions
- Students think they must attempt every catch - teach that smart dodging is often better tactics
- Belief that hard throws are more effective - emphasise accuracy over power for skill development
- Assumption that catching is only about hand technique - highlight importance of body positioning and decision-making
- Thinking that arguing with referees shows competitive spirit - teach that accepting decisions shows true sportsmanship
- Believing individual success is most important - emphasise team benefits of tactical decision-making
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Build in regular movement breaks, use clear, short instructions, provide fidget tools during discussion times
dyspraxia
- Use larger, softer balls, allow extra practice time, provide step-by-step visual guides for catching technique
autism spectrum
- Provide clear routine and structure, offer quiet break area if needed, use visual schedule showing lesson progression
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls with high contrast, provide verbal descriptions of ball flight, use buddy system with sighted partner
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual signals for game starts/stops, ensure students can see teacher demonstrations clearly, use written rule cards
physical disability
- Adapt catching from seated position if needed, use lighter balls or balloons, modify court size and throwing distance
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting catches and points, calculating success rates, understanding probability of successful catches versus dodges
Science
Forces involved in catching - impact, absorption, trajectory of ball flight, reaction times and nervous system responses
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding angles and directions for optimal catching positions
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, accepting decisions gracefully, supporting teammates, dealing with competitive pressure and disappointment
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between courts for maximum observation, position near any students needing extra support
Observation Focus
Watch for technical skill development, tactical understanding, and positive sportsmanship
Intervention Points
Step in when throws become unsafe, support students struggling with decision-making, address any disputes immediately
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate catching technique slowly first, then at game speed. Show both successful catches and smart dodge decisions. Model positive reactions to referee decisions
Verbal Cues
- •'Soft hands - let them give!'
- •'Watch the ball into your hands!'
- •'Smart decision - think team first!'
- •'Great sportsmanship!'
- •'Fingers up for high, down for low!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear space for multiple courts, non-slip surface essential
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from obstacles, appropriate court markings visible
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all dodgeballs are soft foam type and properly inflated
- •Ensure no damaged balls with rough surfaces
- •Verify cone boundaries are stable and visible
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impact injuries from throws to head/face
- •Collisions between students during game play
- •Falls from sudden direction changes
- •Overexertion in competitive situations
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise throws below shoulder height only
- •Clear court boundaries to prevent collisions
- •Progressive skill building before competitive games
- •Regular breaks and heart rate monitoring
- •Clear rules about gentle throws during skill practice
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all courts simultaneously
- •Monitor throwing intensity throughout lesson
- •Watch for signs of frustration or unsafe behaviour
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess injury severity, apply appropriate first aid, complete accident report if necessary