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Lesson 1 - Throwing and Catching with Accuracy

Foundations to Champions

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Year 6

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we use accurate throwing and catching skills to become successful rounders players?

Learning Objectives

To consistently throw overarm with accuracy to a target
To catch a ball reliably in game situations using correct technique
To apply throwing and catching skills effectively in rounders gameplay

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate overarm throwing technique consistently
Students will successfully catch balls in pressured game situations
Students will understand tactical applications of throwing and catching in rounders

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

Distributed in baskets around area perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Rubber balls, cricket balls (soft)

Balls

Different colour to tennis balls for easy identification

Alternative: Coloured tennis balls, foam balls

Cones

Various colours for different activities, stored in cone carriers

Alternative: Marker discs, plastic bottles

Hoops

Medium sized hoops placed strategically around playing area

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in a high arc

Backstop

The fielding position behind the batter who catches missed balls

Rounder

A full point scored by running around all bases without stopping

Base

The safe positions (marked by cones) that runners must reach

Cushioning

Absorbing the impact of the ball when catching by moving hands backwards

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and coordination skills
Understanding of simple throwing movements
Experience with partner ball activities

Current Skills

Accurate overarm throwing technique with consistent follow-through
Reliable catching using proper hand positioning and cushioning
Application of skills in competitive rounders situations

Next Steps

Advanced tactical rounders gameplay and field positioning
Bowling technique and spin variations
Team strategy and communication in competitive matches

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accuracy in overarm throws at 8m distance

Successful catches in 80% of opportunities during game play

Demonstration of tactical awareness in ball placement

Key Teaching Points

Overarm throwing requires opposite foot forward, elbow above shoulder, and fingertip grip
Successful catching needs eyes on ball, feet moving to position, and soft hands to cushion impact
Tactical awareness in rounders involves observing field positions before throwing
Accurate throwing is more important than powerful throwing for game success
Communication and teamwork are essential for effective fielding
Fair play and positive sportsmanship enhance everyone's enjoyment
Progressive challenges help develop confidence alongside skill improvement

Common Misconceptions

Thinking power is more important than accuracy in throwing - emphasise control first
Believing catching is just about hands - teach whole body positioning
Assuming all throws should be overarm - explain when underarm is more appropriate
Not understanding that running backwards from catches - clarify this tactical advantage
Thinking faster throwing always means better scores - demonstrate rhythm and consistency
Believing individual skills matter more than teamwork - highlight collaborative success

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide frequent movement opportunities, use clear boundaries and immediate feedback

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment for easier coordination, allow extra practice time, provide step-by-step movement breakdown with visual cues

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure with visual timetables, establish quiet zones for overwhelm, use consistent routines and predictable progressions

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls with high contrast, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, implement buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use clear visual signals for instructions, provide written rule summaries, ensure face-to-face communication for lip reading

physical disability

Modify throwing distances based on ability, allow seated throwing and catching, use larger balls for easier handling

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances for throwing practice, counting successful catches, calculating team scores and averages

Science

Forces and motion in throwing actions, trajectory and gravity effects on ball flight, reaction times in catching

Geography

Understanding directions and spatial awareness, mapping field positions and movement patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competitive pressure, showing respect for opponents and officials

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move continuously around area, position at corners for visibility, stay outside throwing zones for safety

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique, safety awareness, positive interactions, understanding of rules

Intervention Points

["Step in immediately for unsafe throwing or catching", "Provide individual coaching for students struggling with technique", "Manage competitive tensions with positive redirection", "Clarify rules confusion before it affects game flow"]

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for visibility, demonstrate both correct and incorrect technique for comparison, involve confident students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Eyes on the ball!'
•'Opposite foot forward!'
•'Elbow high like scratching your head!'
•'Soft hands like catching an egg!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m area for multiple mini rounders pitches plus throwing practice zones

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, obstacles or hazards that could cause slips or trips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tennis balls are in good condition without cracks
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or damage
•Verify hoops are intact without broken sections
•Beanbags properly sewn with no loose filling

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body during throwing practice
•Collisions between students during running or catching
•Trips and falls during base running
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing zones established with adequate spacing
•Controlled throwing speeds appropriate to skill level
•Proper warm-up to prepare muscles for activity
•Clear rules about safe play and stopping signals

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all throwing activities
•Monitor high-energy activities like Race the Ball
•Check understanding of safety rules before each activity
•Immediate intervention for unsafe behaviour

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury severity, apply appropriate first aid, contact school first aider if needed