Lesson 3 - Passing and Catching Mastery
Lacrosse Fundamentals & Skills
•Year 6
•Lacrosse
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we consistently deliver accurate passes and make secure catches under pressure in lacrosse?
Learning Objectives
- To consistently throw and catch a lacrosse ball with accuracy and control
- To demonstrate proper stick positioning and grip adjustments for throwing and catching
- To apply passing and catching skills in game situations with tactical awareness
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate reliable throwing and catching techniques in static and dynamic situations
- Students will show understanding of proper body positioning and stick handling for receiving passes
- Students will apply skills effectively in competitive game scenarios while displaying positive sporting values
Equipment & Resources Required
Check all sticks for damage, ensure nets are secure
Alternative: Tennis rackets for initial catching practice
Ensure balls are regulation weight and not cracked
Alternative: Tennis balls for beginners or safety concerns
Distribute for team identification in game activities
Alternative: Coloured bands or pinnies
Use for targets, boundaries, and distance markers
Alternative: Markers or spots
Ensure wall is smooth and safe for ball rebound practice
Alternative: Rebound nets or practice partners
Key Vocabulary
Moving the stick in a rocking motion to keep the ball secure in the net while running
Allowing the stick to give slightly as the ball enters the net to cushion the catch
Creating a clear aiming point with the stick head for the passer
The stronger hand placed higher on the stick near the net for control
Absorbing the impact of the ball by allowing the stick to move backwards on contact
A throwing technique with arm moving upward from below waist level
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic stick handling and cradling techniques
- Understanding of lacrosse equipment and safety
- Experience with simple throwing and catching activities
Current Skills
- Consistent throwing and catching with grip adjustments
- Proper body positioning for receiving passes
- Cushioning technique when catching
Next Steps
- Advanced passing techniques including overarm throws
- Catching on the run with defensive pressure
- Tactical awareness in small-sided games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Dominant hand position changes from high (catching) to varied (throwing) for control
- Soft hands technique essential for secure catching and ball retention
- Body positioning creates clear target for accurate passing
- Short, safe passes maintain possession better than risky long throws
- Sporting values are demonstrated through actions, not just words
- Progressive skill building from static to dynamic situations ensures safety and success
- Peer assessment develops technical vocabulary and observational skills
Common Misconceptions
- Harder throws are always better - accuracy and control are more important
- Looking at the passer instead of the ball during catches
- Rigid, tense catching instead of allowing stick to give with impact
- Gripping stick too tightly preventing smooth technique
- Focusing only on individual skill rather than team support
- Thinking sporting values only matter in formal competitions
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short activity bursts with regular changes, clear boundaries and expectations, frequent positive feedback
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time for skill development
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet reflection time available
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, verbal descriptions of positioning, buddy system for spatial guidance
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for key commands
physical disability
- Modify throwing distances, allow seated catching positions, use larger/lighter equipment as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances for throwing, calculating catch success rates, timing activities and rotations
Science
Understanding forces in throwing and catching, biomechanics of cushioning impacts, physics of ball rebound
Geography
Spatial awareness, positional understanding, mapping movement patterns around playing area
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, respect and fair play in competition
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between pairs and groups to observe technique, position at corner for whole-class activities
Observation Focus
Watch for correct grip positions, catching technique, spatial awareness, and sporting behaviour
Intervention Points
Step in when technique deteriorates, safety concerns arise, or negative behaviour emerges
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility, involve students in demonstrations, repeat key points multiple times
Verbal Cues
- •'Soft hands!'
- •'Create a target!'
- •'Cushion the catch!'
- •'Support your teammate!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m area, clear of obstacles, with wall space for rebound practice
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for running and quick direction changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all lacrosse sticks for damage, loose nets, or sharp edges
- •Ensure balls are regulation weight and free from cracks
- •Verify cones are stable and visible
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Stick-to-face contact during catching
- •Collisions during dynamic movement
- •Ball strikes to head or body
- •Trips and falls during running activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise proper stick positioning away from face
- •Maintain adequate spacing between students and pairs
- •Teach progressive skills from static to dynamic
- •Clear communication and awareness protocols
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during partner work
- •Monitor high-activity areas during game situations
- •Ensure proper equipment handling throughout
- •Watch for fatigue affecting safety
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safe