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Lesson 2 - Two-Handed Backhand Skills

Doubles Strategy & Communication

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Year 6

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Tennis

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Big Question

How can we use the two-handed backhand shot effectively to control the ball and create strategic advantages in tennis?

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate correct stance and technique for a two-handed backhand shot with increasing control and consistency
Identify and explain when and why to use a backhand shot in game situations for tactical advantage
Apply backhand technique effectively during rally situations whilst maintaining good court positioning

Key Outcomes

Students will perform two-handed backhand shots with improved control and accuracy
Students will demonstrate tactical awareness by selecting appropriate shots during gameplay
Students will sustain longer rallies using both forehand and backhand techniques

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Rackets

1 per student (30)

Check racquet grip size is appropriate for student hand size

Alternative: Foam paddles or larger-headed junior racquets for students needing support

Tennis Balls

15 balls (1 per pair)

Use different coloured balls for different ability groups

Alternative: Foam balls or low-pressure tennis balls for easier control

Cones

20 cones

Mark out multiple small courts and target areas

Alternative: Markers or chalk for court boundaries

Tennis net or alternatives

2-3 nets

Adjust height to encourage successful shots over the net

Alternative: Benches, rope between posts, or badminton nets

Coloured Bibs

15 bibs (for team games)

Two distinct colours for team identification

Alternative: Different coloured wristbands or headbands

Key Vocabulary

Two-handed backhand

A tennis shot played with both hands on the racquet handle, typically used when the ball approaches the non-dominant side

Sideways stance

Body position where the side faces the net, allowing for proper rotation and power generation

Body rotation

The twisting motion of the torso that generates power and control in the shot

Rally

A sequence of shots between players where the ball is kept in play continuously

Court positioning

Strategic placement of oneself on the court to effectively return shots and control the rally

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic racquet grip and control from previous tennis sessions
Forehand shot technique and application
Understanding of court boundaries and basic game rules
Experience with simple rally activities

Current Skills

Two-handed backhand stance and preparation
Backhand swing mechanics with body rotation
Shot selection and tactical awareness
Rally maintenance using varied shots

Next Steps

Advanced backhand variations (slice, topspin)
Serve and return combinations
Match play with scoring systems
Advanced court positioning and movement patterns

Milestone Indicators

Consistent sideways stance adoption

Smooth body rotation through the swing

Appropriate shot selection during gameplay

Sustained rallies of 6+ shots

Key Teaching Points

Sideways stance is fundamental for effective backhand technique and power generation
Two-handed grip provides better control and stability for young players learning backhand
Body rotation drives the shot - encourage full shoulder turn for power and accuracy
Shot selection depends on ball position and tactical situation - teach decision-making alongside technique
Cooperative rally play builds confidence before introducing competitive elements
Early preparation and quick feet help students get into correct position for success
Follow-through direction determines ball placement and control in rallies

Common Misconceptions

Students often think backhand is just for balls on their 'wrong' side - teach tactical applications too
Many believe harder swings equal better shots - emphasise control and placement over power
Students may try to use forehand grip for backhand - reinforce importance of grip change
Some think they should wait for perfect ball position - teach movement and adaptation skills
Students often rush to competitive play before mastering cooperative rallying skills

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, immediate feedback and praise, movement breaks built into activities, clear boundaries and expectations

dyspraxia

Slower demonstrations with repeated modelling, larger/lighter equipment options, extra practice time for technique, simple verbal cues and visual reminders

autism spectrum

Clear routine and structure, visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet spaces available if needed, consistent language and predictable progressions

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and audible signals for activity changes, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations and hand signals, written instruction cards available, ensure student can see teacher clearly during instructions

physical disability

Adapt stance requirements, provide seated playing options, modify grip or use adaptive equipment, adjust court size and rules as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring court dimensions, calculating rally totals, analysing angles of shots and body rotation during technique

Science

Understanding forces in racquet sports, body mechanics and leverage in two-handed shots, trajectory and ball physics

Geography

Court spatial awareness, understanding directions and positioning, mapping movement patterns during rallies

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork during partner activities, resilience when learning new techniques, respect and fair play in games

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position with clear sight lines to all activity areas, move between pairs during practice to provide individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct sideways stance adoption; Check two-handed grip consistency; Monitor swing path for safety and effectiveness; Observe shot selection decisions during rallies

Intervention Points

["Step in if technique creates safety risks", "Provide hands-on support for stance difficulties", "Adjust activity level if students struggling or bored", "Intervene if rallies become overly competitive"]

Demonstration Notes

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

Verbal Cues

•'Sideways stance first!'
•'Two hands together on the grip!'
•'Shoulder across to your target!'
•'Soft hands, controlled swing!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m area, preferably tennis court or large hall with clear boundaries

Surface Check

Non-slip surface free from water, debris or obstacles that could cause falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check racquet grips are secure and appropriate size
•Inspect balls for damage or excessive wear
•Ensure nets/benches are stable and at safe height
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Racquet collision between students during swinging
•Balls hitting students unexpectedly
•Trips and falls during rapid movement
•Overexertion during sustained rally activities

Risk Mitigation

•Adequate spacing between pairs during all activities
•Clear swing zones established and maintained
•Controlled ball speed appropriate to skill level
•Progressive activity intensity with rest periods

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all courts and activities simultaneously
•Monitor high-activity areas like net games closely
•Check technique to prevent strain or injury
•Watch for fatigue and adjust intensity accordingly

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately on whistle signal, assess any injuries, provide appropriate first aid, contact school procedures if serious injury occurs