Lesson 1 - Throwing Techniques
Dodgeball Fundamentals
•Year 7
•Dodgeball
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How can I develop an accurate and effective throwing technique that gives me an advantage in competitive game situations?
Learning Objectives
- Understand how to work alongside and against others when attacking and defending
- Work well with others in a range of contexts
- Demonstrate understanding and interpretation of rules and accept decisions given
- Develop an effective overarm throwing technique for game application
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved throwing accuracy and technique
- Students will apply tactical awareness in attack and defence scenarios
- Students will show respect for rules and fair play in competitive situations
- Students will work cooperatively in teams whilst competing against opponents
Equipment & Resources Required
Inflated to medium firmness, placed on centre line
Alternative: Foam balls, tennis balls for beginners
Mark court boundaries and centre lines clearly
Alternative: Chalk lines, rope boundaries
Clearly distinguish teams
Alternative: House colours, different coloured shirts
For timing games and activities
Alternative: Smartphone timer, wall clock
Key Vocabulary
To remove a player from the game by hitting them with the ball
The opposing team or players you are competing against
A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder in a high arc
The specific area or person you are aiming to hit with the ball
The ability to hit your intended target consistently
Understanding when and where to move, throw, or defend based on game situation
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling skills from KS2
- Understanding of team games and cooperation
- Simple throwing and catching techniques
Current Skills
- Overarm throwing technique development
- Tactical awareness in attack and defence
- Rule understanding and application
Next Steps
- Advanced throwing techniques and power development
- Complex team strategies and formations
- Leadership roles in officiating and coaching
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Overarm throwing technique: step forward with opposite foot, arm back, throw through target
- Accuracy is more important than power - controlled throws are more effective
- Low throws below waist height are harder to catch and safer
- Teamwork and communication are essential for success in competitive situations
- Fair play and sportsmanship must be maintained even under competitive pressure
- Safety first - never throw at head height and always follow the rules
- Practice and persistence lead to improvement in throwing technique
Common Misconceptions
- Harder throws are always better - actually accuracy and placement are more important
- Same foot should step forward when throwing - opposite foot gives better balance and power
- High throws are easier - low throws are actually much harder to catch and defend against
- Individual skill is most important - teamwork and tactics often determine success
- Rules can be bent in competitive situations - fair play must be maintained throughout
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter game durations, clear boundaries, regular feedback and movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Larger target areas, simplified throwing technique focus, extra practice time and patience
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedules, quiet zones available, predictable routines and rule consistency
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of court layout, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual signals for game starts/stops, written rule sheets, clear visual demonstrations
physical disability
- Seated throwing variations, modified court sizes, adaptive equipment as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Science
Understanding forces in throwing, projectile motion, and body systems during exercise
Geography
Spatial awareness, positioning, and understanding of court dimensions and boundaries
Mathematics
Calculating angles of throws, measuring distances, counting scores and timing games
Psychology
Reaction times, decision making under pressure, and concentration skills
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between courts to observe all games, position at corners for maximum visibility of play areas
Observation Focus
Monitor throwing technique application, check target areas for safety, assess teamwork and communication
Intervention Points
Step in immediately for head-height throws, unsafe play, or poor sportsmanship
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate throwing technique slowly with clear verbal commentary, use students as positive examples when appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Overarm technique - step and throw!'
- •'Aim low - below the waist!'
- •'Great teamwork - keep communicating!'
- •'Remember your follow through!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m sports hall or outdoor hard court area with clear boundaries
Surface Check
Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and trip hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check dodgeballs are properly inflated and free from damage
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify adequate quantity of balls to prevent overcrowding
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to head/face area
- •Collisions between players during ball collection
- •Slips and falls on smooth surfaces
- •Overexertion during competitive play
Risk Mitigation
- •Strict below-waist throwing rule enforced throughout
- •Clear court boundaries and adequate spacing between games
- •Controlled start procedures for ball collection
- •Regular breaks and hydration opportunities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all courts simultaneously
- •Active monitoring of throwing technique and target areas
- •Immediate intervention for unsafe play or rule violations
Emergency Procedures
Stop all games immediately on whistle signal, assess injury/situation, provide appropriate first aid support, contact emergency services if required