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Big Question

How can mastering throwing and catching accuracy transform your game performance?

Learning Objectives

  • Develop consistent throwing and catching technique with control and accuracy
  • Demonstrate agility, balance, coordination and precision in dynamic lacrosse activities
  • Evaluate peer performance using correct technical language
  • Consistently demonstrate sporting values including passion, self-belief, respect, honesty, determination and teamwork

Key Outcomes

  • Students will execute controlled throws and catches using correct hand positioning and cushioning technique
  • Students will apply throwing and catching skills in competitive game situations
  • Students will provide constructive feedback to peers using technical vocabulary
  • Students will self-assess their demonstration of sporting values

Equipment & Resources Required

Lacrosse sticks
1 per student (30)

Distribute before students enter space, arranged in straight line for safe collection

Alternative: If insufficient sticks, pair sharing with rotation every 2 minutes

Lacrosse Balls
1 per student + 5 spares (35 total)

Keep spare balls in bucket at side of area for quick replacement of lost balls

Alternative: Tennis balls for students with coordination difficulties or safety concerns

Cones
40-50 (various colours)

Use different colours for different activity zones to aid visual organisation

Alternative: Markers, spots or chalk lines for boundaries

Bibs
15 (5 each of three colours)

Pre-sorted into sets for quick team distribution

Alternative: Coloured bands or verbal team identification

Wall Space
1 (optional)

Clear 3m safety zone in front of wall, mark with cones

Alternative: Standalone rebound nets or partner throwing

Whistles
1 for teacher

Establish whistle signal system: 1 blast = stop, 2 blasts = rotate, 3 blasts = gather

Alternative: Voice commands with clear visual signals

Stopwatch
1 (phone app acceptable)

Visible to teacher for accurate timing of activities

Alternative: Large visible countdown timer

Key Vocabulary

Throw

Propelling the lacrosse ball from the stick's net towards a target using controlled arm movement

Catch

Receiving the lacrosse ball into the stick's net with control

Cushion

Absorbing the impact of the ball by moving the stick backwards slightly as the ball enters the net

Underarm

A throwing technique where the stick moves from low to high in an upward arc

Dominant hand

The hand that provides power and control, positioned higher on the stick shaft near the head

Cradle

Rhythmic rocking motion of the stick to keep the ball secure in the net whilst moving

Target

The intended destination for the ball, usually partner's stick or specific area

Accuracy

The ability to throw the ball precisely to the intended target

Passion

Showing enthusiasm, energy and love for the activity

Self-belief

Confidence in one's own abilities and willingness to attempt challenging tasks

Respect

Treating others, equipment and the game with consideration and courtesy

Honesty

Being truthful about performance, scores and rule-breaking

Determination

Perseverance and continued effort even when facing difficulty

Teamwork

Working cooperatively with others towards a shared goal

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic grip and hold of lacrosse stick from previous lessons
  • Understanding of cradling technique
  • Awareness of spatial positioning and movement pathways
  • Introduction to lacrosse safety rules and equipment handling

Current Skills

  • Consistent throwing technique with correct release point
  • Catching with cushioning to absorb ball impact
  • Hand positioning adjustment between throwing and catching
  • Supporting teammates by creating passing options
  • Decision-making under pressure in game situations

Next Steps

  • Throwing and catching whilst under defensive pressure
  • Advanced passing techniques including bounce passes
  • Tactical awareness in attacking play
  • Positional play and team formations

Milestone Indicators

1
Student can complete 8/10 catches over 10m distance
2
Student adjusts hand position automatically between throwing and catching
3
Student consistently demonstrates cushioning technique
4
Student makes tactical decisions about when and where to pass
5
Student provides technical feedback using correct vocabulary

Key Teaching Points

  • Dominant hand position is KEY: high near stick head for catching (control), lower for throwing (power)
  • Cushioning technique is essential: 'give' with the stick as ball enters like catching a water balloon - prevents bounce-out
  • Eyes must track ball all the way into the net - follow flight path completely
  • Follow-through towards target after releasing throw - stick points where ball should go
  • Short safe passes are better than long risky ones - possession over ambition
  • Support positioning: ball carrier needs options left AND right - create passing angles
  • School Games Values are as important as skills - character and competence together create excellence

Common Misconceptions

  • MISCONCEPTION: 'Throwing harder makes it more accurate.' CORRECTION: Accuracy comes from controlled technique and follow-through, not power. Demonstrate that soft controlled throw hits target more reliably than hard wild throw.
  • MISCONCEPTION: 'You catch with a rigid still stick.' CORRECTION: Catching requires active cushioning movement - the stick must 'give' backwards to absorb impact. Show comparison - rigid stick bounces ball out, cushioning stick secures it.
  • MISCONCEPTION: 'Hand position stays the same for throwing and catching.' CORRECTION: Dominant hand moves - high for catching (control), lower for throwing (power generation). Physically demonstrate the slide.
  • MISCONCEPTION: 'You should look at your target when catching.' CORRECTION: Eyes must track the BALL not the target. You can't catch what you're not watching. Demonstrate failed catch from target-watching vs successful catch from ball-watching.
  • MISCONCEPTION: 'Supporting means standing still waiting for a pass.' CORRECTION: Support is active and dynamic - constantly adjusting position to create passing angles left and right of ball carrier. Show static vs dynamic support difference.
  • MISCONCEPTION: 'School Games Values are separate from skills.' CORRECTION: Values enable better performance - teamwork improves passing, determination drives improvement, respect creates positive learning environment. Values and skills work together.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Structure lesson with frequent short activities rather than extended single tasks - variety maintains engagement. Provide clear boundaries and rules repeated regularly throughout lesson. Use energetic activities as outlet for movement needs - channel energy productively. Give regular specific feedback and praise for on-task behaviour - every 2-3 minutes. Use visual and kinesthetic learning - demonstrate and do rather than just verbal instruction. Position near teacher for easy redirection and support. Provide immediate feedback rather than delayed - instant reinforcement. Break complex tasks into smaller steps with clear completion points. Allow brief movement breaks if needed - collecting equipment, demonstrations. Use enthusiasm and energy to match student's intensity positively.
dyspraxia
  • Use larger ball and equipment for easier manipulation - size 4 ball or tennis ball. Reduce task complexity - focus on one element at time (just catching, then just throwing, then combining). Provide additional practice time to develop motor patterns - repetition essential. Offer hand-over-hand support for correct grip and positioning. Use slower-paced activities initially building speed gradually. Reduce distances significantly - 5m instead of 10m. Provide clear simple instructions with maximum demonstration. Pair with patient supportive partner. Break skills into smaller sequential steps. Allow sitting down for some activities to reduce balance demands. Celebrate effort and improvement over absolute performance. Reduce visual distractions in environment. Provide encouragement and patience throughout.
autism spectrum
  • Provide clear visual schedule showing lesson structure and timings - what's happening when. Establish consistent routines for equipment collection, transitions, and gathering. Use visual cues and symbols for instructions supporting verbal explanations. Minimise sensory overload - consider noise levels, visual clutter, and physical contact in activities. Provide quiet zone option if student needs brief sensory break. Give advance warning before activity changes - 'in 2 minutes we will...'. Use clear concrete language avoiding idioms or ambiguous phrases. Provide additional processing time for questions and instructions. Allow use of ear defenders if noise overwhelming. Pair with familiar supportive peer. Celebrate sensory-friendly achievements. Maintain predictable structure throughout lesson.
visual impairment
  • Use brightly coloured balls that contrast with background for easier visual tracking. Provide bright bibs in contrasting colours for team identification. Use verbal cues constantly - 'ball coming to you now', 'three metres to your left'. Pair with sighted buddy who can provide directional guidance. Use audible ball (with bell inside) if available. Reduce playing area size to limit distances for better visibility. Position student in areas with best lighting. Provide additional physical demonstrations allowing student to feel correct stick position. Increase ball size if appropriate for easier tracking.
hearing impairment
  • Ensure student can always see teacher's face for lip-reading during instructions. Use clear visual demonstrations for all activities - show don't just tell. Provide written activity cards showing key points for reference. Use exaggerated visual signals for stop/start rather than whistle alone. Position student at front during demonstrations ensuring clear sight lines. Pair with supportive partner who can relay missed information. Use visual timer showing time remaining. Create simple hand signals for common instructions (stop, go, good work). Provide activity sequence visually on board showing lesson structure. Ensure good lighting for visibility of signs and demonstrations.
physical disability
  • Adapt activities based on individual needs assessment and consultation with student/SENCO. Offer seated versions of activities where student sits on chair or bench and participates from stationary position. Provide modified lighter stick if standard too heavy or difficult to manipulate. Use larger softer ball if grip or coordination affected. Reduce distances for throwing and catching - 5m instead of 10m. Allow additional time for completing activities. Provide peer buddy for equipment collection and movement support. Create accessible spaces ensuring wheelchair/mobility aid access. Adapt scoring in games - seated student scores double points to balance participation. Focus on abilities not limitations - celebrate what they CAN do.

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Using technical vocabulary accurately - cushion, underarm, dominant, accuracy (spoken language). Providing verbal feedback to peers using descriptive language (spoken language). Articulating tactical ideas and explanations during reflection (spoken language). Following verbal instructions and multi-step sequences (listening). Evaluating peer performance using correct terminology (spoken language).

Maths

Counting successful catches during timed challenges (number and place value). Measuring distances for throwing activities - 10m, 15m (measurement). Calculating scores and tracking points in competitive games (addition, subtraction). Understanding angles in throwing trajectories and ball flight paths (geometry). Timing activities using seconds and minutes (time). Creating and reading tables of results from group challenges (statistics).

Science

Understanding forces acting on the ball - gravity, friction, air resistance affecting flight (forces and motion). Recognising how muscular system works during throwing motion - arm muscles contracting and relaxing (human biology). Observing how cardiovascular system responds to exercise - increased heart rate, breathing rate during warm-up and games (working scientifically). Understanding trajectory and parabolic motion of thrown ball (physics). Investigating how follow-through affects distance and accuracy - energy transfer (forces).

Computing

Understanding sequences and step-by-step processes in skill development - algorithmic thinking (computational thinking). Recognising patterns in successful throwing technique (computational thinking). Debugging technique when catches fail - identifying and correcting errors (computational thinking). Logical reasoning when making tactical passing decisions (computational thinking).

Geography

Using directional language throughout activities - left, right, forwards, backwards (locational knowledge). Understanding spatial awareness and mapping movement patterns across teaching area (place knowledge). Creating mental maps of court layout and positioning - where Ds are, boundaries, space (geographical skills).

PSHE

Developing teamwork through cooperative activities and supporting others (relationships). Building resilience when facing difficult challenges like non-dominant side throwing (health and wellbeing). Managing emotions during competitive games and when making mistakes (health and wellbeing). Demonstrating respect for others' abilities and efforts (relationships). Developing self-belief through achievement and overcoming challenges (health and wellbeing). Understanding honesty through self-assessment and peer voting (relationships).

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Vary position throughout lesson: central and elevated for demonstrations and instructions ensuring all students can see and hear; perimeter circulation during practice activities to provide individual feedback; corner or sideline position during games for full court visibility while being accessible for questions.

Observation Focus

Watch for: correct hand positioning (dominant hand high for catching, lower for throwing), cushioning movement visible on catches, accurate throws to target, support positioning in tactical activities, safe stick handling throughout, sporting values demonstration (encouraging words, helping others, perseverance, honesty), signs of fatigue or distress, inclusive behaviour ensuring all students are engaged.

Intervention Points

Step in immediately if: unsafe stick use or throwing, students showing frustration or distress, technique significantly incorrect preventing success, rules being broken repeatedly, values being violated (disrespect, dishonesty, exclusion), equipment malfunctioning, any injury occurs, students are disengaged or off-task, group dynamics becoming negative.

Demonstration Notes

Use demonstrations strategically throughout: teacher demonstrates new skills with exaggerated movements for clarity, perform technique slowly first then at speed, show common mistakes then correct technique for contrast, select confident students to demonstrate good practice (builds self-belief and provides peer modelling), pause activities mid-flow to highlight excellent technique from students ('freeze and watch...'), use demonstrations with verbal commentary explaining what to observe, ensure all students can see demonstrations by arranging semi-circle or clearing space, demonstrate safety procedures and equipment handling at start.

Verbal Cues
  • 'Hands high!' - reminder for catching position
  • 'Cushion!' - prompt for soft catch technique
  • 'Eyes on the ball!' - focus point for tracking
  • 'Short and safe!' - tactical passing reminder
  • 'Find space!' - movement off ball
  • 'Support left and right!' - tactical positioning
  • 'Spread wide!' - using court width
  • 'Freeze!' - immediate stop for safety or teaching point
  • 'Show me...' - checking for understanding
  • 'Excellent [specific behaviour]!' - reinforcing positive actions

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m clear outdoor space (playground or field) or full sports hall. Netball court required for final game. Adequate perimeter space (3m) clear of walls, fences and obstacles.

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or trip hazards. Check for wet or icy patches before lesson. Indoor surface should be non-slip. Outdoor surface should be grass or tarmac in good condition.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Check all lacrosse sticks for secure head attachment before distribution - loose heads pose strike risk
  • Inspect stick shafts for cracks or splinters - remove damaged equipment immediately
  • Verify lacrosse balls are correct hardness - not over-inflated or degraded
  • Ensure adequate supply of spare balls to prevent delays and frustration
  • Check bibs are clean and in good condition without tears
  • Cones should have no sharp edges or cracks - replace damaged items

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Stick collisions during dynamic movement activities - particularly during warm-up chase activities
  • Ball strikes to head or body from wild throws or rebounds
  • Trips and falls during running with stick - especially during direction changes
  • Collisions between students during game play
  • Overexertion in competitive activities leading to injury or distress
  • Eye injuries from ball or stick contact
  • Muscle strains from inadequate warm-up or cool-down
Risk Mitigation
  • Clear boundaries established and reinforced throughout lesson
  • Adequate spacing between students and groups during all activities - minimum 2-3m
  • Progressive skill building from solo to pairs to groups to games
  • No running with ball rule in final game reduces collision risk
  • Mandatory warm-up including dynamic movement preparation
  • Mandatory cool-down including stretching for recovery
  • Controlled equipment distribution and collection prevents rushing
  • Clear stop signals (whistle) established and practiced
  • Throwing directions controlled - no throwing towards faces
  • Wall practice area clearly marked with safety distance
  • Underarm throwing emphasis reduces ball velocity in early practices
  • Teacher positioned for maximum visibility of all working areas
  • Regular safety reminders throughout lesson
  • Modified equipment available (tennis balls) for students requiring safer option

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Teacher position varies by activity - central for demonstrations, perimeter circulation for practice, sideline for games
  • Position for maximum visibility of all students at all times
  • Monitor high-activity areas particularly during competitive games
  • Scan continuously for unsafe stick use or throwing
  • Watch for signs of fatigue, distress or overexertion
  • Intervene immediately if unsafe behaviour observed
  • Ensure all students within designated boundaries
  • Monitor wall practice area closely if used
  • Check students with known medical conditions regularly
Emergency Procedures

Immediate STOP signal if injury occurs. Assess injured student while rest of class moves to safe space away from incident. Apply appropriate first aid following school policy. Send reliable student for additional support if required. Complete accident report form. Contact parents if injury requires medical attention. Secure all equipment before leaving area.