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Lesson 1 - Throwing and Dodging Techniques

Tactics & Team Dynamics

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Year 6

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Dodgeball

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1h 10min

Big Question

How can we use throwing accuracy and evasion tactics to outmanoeuvre opponents whilst working as a team?

Learning Objectives

Develop accurate and powerful throwing techniques for tactical advantage
Master dodging and evasion skills to avoid elimination
Apply teamwork strategies when attacking and defending in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate effective overarm throwing with accuracy and power
Students will show quick reactions and spatial awareness when dodging
Students will work collaboratively to support teammates whilst competing against opponents

Equipment & Resources Required

Soft Dodgeballs

6-8

Check balls are soft and appropriate for indoor use

Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags for beginners

Cones

10-12

Use to mark boundaries and target areas

Alternative: Markers, spots

Hoops

6-8

Place between throwing pairs as targets

Alternative: Large circles drawn on floor

Coloured Bibs

For team identification and warm-up activity

Alternative: Team bands, different coloured tops

Lines

1 set

Clearly defined rectangular playing area

Alternative: Cones to mark playing area

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

Throwing technique with arm raised above shoulder height, using body rotation for power

Dodging

Quick movement to avoid being hit by the ball

Elimination

Being removed from the game when hit by a ball or caught

Target area

The lower body region (below waist) where throws should be aimed

Tactical positioning

Strategic placement on court to attack or defend effectively

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills from Years 4-5
Understanding of simple game rules and fair play
Basic spatial awareness and movement skills

Current Skills

Accurate overarm throwing with power
Quick dodging and evasion techniques
Tactical teamwork in competitive situations

Next Steps

Advanced game strategies and formations
Leadership roles in team sports
Complex throwing variations and defensive tactics

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate throws hitting target areas

Quick reaction times when dodging incoming balls

Clear communication and tactical awareness in games

Key Teaching Points

Overarm throwing technique with high elbow and body rotation
Below-waist targeting for safety and tactical advantage
Quick, varied dodging movements staying on balls of feet
Clear team communication during attacking and defending
Honest self-assessment when hit by ball
Sporting behaviour and respect for all participants
Progressive skill building from static to dynamic targets

Common Misconceptions

Higher throws are better (actually easier to catch and unsafe)
Soft throws are safer (lack power to be effective in game)
Dodging means just moving away (should use varied directions and speeds)
Individual skill is more important than teamwork (success requires both)
It's okay to lie about being hit (undermines fair play and learning)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear immediate goals, regular movement breaks, simplified instruction chunks

dyspraxia

Larger, softer balls, reduced complexity movements, extra practice time, buddy support system

autism spectrum

Clear visual game boundaries, structured rules explanation, quiet zone available, consistent routines

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of game state, pair with sighted buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and demonstrations, provide written rule cards, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Seated throwing version, modified targets, adapted distances, alternative participation roles

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting hits and points, measuring throwing distances, calculating team scores and success rates

Science

Forces and motion in throwing, trajectory and gravity effects, reaction times and nervous system responses

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of directions and movement patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, honest self-assessment, managing competitive emotions and disappointment

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter for clear view of all students, position near active throwing areas during practice

Observation Focus

Watch for correct throwing technique, safe targeting, honest gameplay, and effective teamwork

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe throwing, poor sporting behaviour, or if students struggling with technique

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, slow-motion demonstrations for throwing technique, exaggerate key points for visibility, involve confident students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'High elbow, bent arm!'
•'Aim low and throw hard!'
•'Communicate with your team!'
•'Play fair and be honest!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m hall or playground area, clear of obstacles and with safe boundaries

Surface Check

Dry, non-slip surface free from hazards, adequate space around playing area

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check balls are soft and appropriate for age group
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or damage
•Verify hoops are stable and won't cause tripping

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head/face from high throws
•Collisions between students during dodging
•Slips and falls during quick movements
•Overexertion during high-intensity games

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise below-waist targeting only throughout lesson
•Establish clear court boundaries and maintain them
•Use soft balls appropriate for indoor play
•Monitor throwing power and encourage controlled aggression
•Regular reminders about honest self-assessment when hit

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all playing areas
•Monitor throwing technique to ensure safety compliance
•Watch for any aggressive or unsafe behaviour
•Ensure adequate rest periods during high-intensity activities

Emergency Procedures

Stop all play immediately with whistle signal, assess any injury, provide appropriate first aid, complete accident report if required