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Lesson 2 - Throwing & Defence Skills

Strategic Movement

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Year 9

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Ultimate Frisbee

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Big Question

How can precision throwing and intelligent defensive positioning create or prevent scoring opportunities?

Learning Objectives

Develop throwing accuracy using various disc release techniques and angles
Refine defensive positioning and interception skills to disrupt opponent possession
Apply tactical awareness in small-sided game situations to maintain possession effectively

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved accuracy in frisbee throwing across different distances and angles
Students will apply effective defensive techniques including shadowing, marking, and intercepting passes
Students will make tactical decisions about when to pass, how to create space, and how to defend effectively

Equipment & Resources Required

Frisbees

15-20 (1 per 2 students minimum)

Store in equipment bag at edge of playing area, distribute during warm-up

Alternative: Soft foam discs for students with catching anxiety, lighter discs for less experienced throwers

Bibs

30 (enough for full class in two teams)

Pre-sorted into two colour groups for quick distribution

Alternative: Coloured bands or pinnies

Cones

40-50

Set up 9-hole frisbee golf course before lesson - varied distances 5-20 metres

Alternative: Markers, spots, or natural landmarks

Obstacles

9 target stations

Create varied challenges: ground targets, elevated targets, distance throws, accuracy through gaps

Alternative: Cones in circles, hoops on stands, bins, posts, trees (outdoor), benches

Sun Markers

For demonstrating tactical concepts and recording star performers

Alternative: Tablet with diagrams, printed visual aids

Score Sheets

1 per student

Distributed during plenary, pens/pencils available

Alternative: Digital assessment on tablets, laminated reusable sheets

Key Vocabulary

Grip

The way you hold the frisbee, typically with four fingers under the rim and thumb on top

Release

The moment the disc leaves your hand, controlling spin and direction

Angle

The trajectory of the disc flight - flat, hyzer (tilted away), or anhyzer (tilted towards)

Forehand

A throwing technique using a sidearm motion, disc released from the thumb side of the body

Backhand

A throwing technique using an across-body motion, disc released from the opposite side

Pivoting

Keeping one foot planted as a pivot point while moving the other foot to create passing angles

CLAP

Catch, Look, Assess, Pass - a tactical framework for decision-making with possession

Fake

A deceptive movement or throwing motion to mislead the defender

Turnover

When possession changes to the opposing team due to incomplete pass or interception

Shadowing

Defensive technique of staying close to an opponent to limit their movement and passing options

Split Vision

The ability to watch both the disc and your opponent simultaneously

Pancake Catch

Catching technique using two hands in a clapping motion to trap the disc

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic frisbee catching and throwing techniques from Lesson 1
Understanding of Ultimate Frisbee rules including no running with the disc
Awareness of spatial positioning and movement without the disc
Foundation knowledge of attacking and defending principles

Current Skills

Precision throwing accuracy at various distances and angles
Defensive shadowing, marking, and interception techniques
Tactical application of CLAP principles under pressure
Advanced throwing techniques including spin variation
Self and peer assessment using performance criteria

Next Steps

Develop zone defence strategies for team-based defensive systems
Apply vertical stack and horizontal stack offensive formations
Refine game management and tournament play strategies
Lead tactical discussions and coaching sessions independently

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accuracy hitting targets from 10+ metres

Successfully intercepting passes by reading flight path and player movement

Maintaining possession for 5+ consecutive passes in competitive situations

Providing constructive coaching feedback to peers with specific improvement points

Key Teaching Points

Throwing accuracy develops through understanding the relationship between grip, wrist snap, release angle, and follow-through - emphasise smooth, controlled technique over power
CLAP principle (Catch, Look, Assess, Pass) is the foundation of tactical decision-making in Ultimate Frisbee - pause to assess rather than rushing passes
Effective defence in non-contact sport relies on positioning, shadowing, and anticipation rather than physical pressure - teach spatial awareness and reading the game
Pivoting legally requires one foot to remain planted at all times - this is both a rule requirement and tactical tool for creating passing angles
Communication is essential for team success - verbal and visual signals must be constant, clear, and supportive
Fakes and deceptive movements are high-level skills that create space and passing opportunities when defenders are applying pressure
Self-assessment and target-setting develop metacognitive awareness and personal responsibility for improvement - guide students to set specific, achievable goals

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Throwing hard equals throwing well.' Reality: Accuracy and control come from technique (grip, spin, smooth release) not raw power. Correction: Emphasise that catchable passes are successful passes - practice controlled, accurate throws before increasing power.
Misconception: 'Defence means staying as close as possible to the disc carrier.' Reality: In Ultimate Frisbee, defence is about positioning in passing lanes and marking receivers, not just pressuring the thrower. Correction: Teach split vision and defensive positioning between thrower and receiver to intercept passes.
Misconception: 'You can move anywhere with the disc as long as you're passing quickly.' Reality: No running with disc - must establish pivot foot immediately upon catching and keep it planted. Correction: Explicitly practice catching and immediately planting pivot foot. Use freeze coaching to check legal pivoting during games.
Misconception: 'Frisbee is just for fun, not a real sport requiring tactics.' Reality: Ultimate Frisbee requires sophisticated tactical understanding comparable to other invasion games. Correction: Use tactical discussions and game analysis to demonstrate strategic depth - formations, defensive systems, offensive strategies.
Misconception: 'The best players do everything themselves.' Reality: Ultimate Frisbee relies on team possession and distribution - individual brilliance is less effective than team cohesion. Correction: Reward team performances and consecutive passes, not just individual spectacular catches or throws.
Misconception: 'Assessment is just about whether you win or lose.' Reality: Progress measured across Head (understanding), Hands (skill), and Heart (social/leadership) domains. Correction: Use assessment framework explicitly, recognise star performers for coaching and leadership, not just athletic performance.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with frequent changes maintain engagement (lesson already structured this way). Clear, concise instructions repeated frequently. Specific roles and responsibilities in games to maintain focus. Positive reinforcement regularly: 'Excellent focus on that throw!' Movement breaks built in (lesson includes continuous physical activity). Visual cues for task transitions. Option to be active leader/demonstrator role to channel energy positively.

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter frisbees easier to control and catch. Additional practice time for throwing technique development. Break down complex movements into smaller steps with individual coaching. Reduced distance for throwing initially, gradually increasing. Partner provides specific technique feedback and encouragement. Frisbee golf: multiple attempts per hole allowed without penalty. Visual demonstrations and physical guidance for movement patterns. Celebrate effort and improvement rather than absolute performance.

autism spectrum

Provide clear, structured lesson routine with visual schedule showing each section. Quiet zone available if student becomes overwhelmed by game intensity or noise. Clear, explicit rules for games written and displayed. Reduce sensory overload: option to wear headphones during loud activities. Predictable partner pairings with familiar, supportive peers. Extra processing time for tactical discussions and decision-making.

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured, high-visibility frisbees (neon yellow, orange). Partner with sighted buddy for frisbee golf navigation and game play. Use verbal cues extensively: 'Disc coming to your left!' Audible signals for game start/stop. Reduce playing area size for easier spatial navigation. Allow touch-guide support from partner or teacher.

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations with exaggerated movements. Provide written instruction cards at each frisbee golf hole. Visual hand signals for game management (start, stop, point scored). Ensure student can see teacher at all times for lip-reading. Pair with supportive partner who can relay verbal instructions visually. Use visual timer for activity durations.

physical disability

Wheelchair users: adapted frisbee golf course with accessible holes, modified throwing techniques including underarm rolls, seated throwing positions. Modified 3v3 game: wheelchair users have designated zone they can access, no-contact rules strictly enforced, may use ramp or aid for throwing if needed. Reduced playing area size. Student with mobility difficulties: smaller playing grid, ability to throw from static position without requirement to move, partner provides retrieval support.

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills: clear verbal instructions during games, calling for passes, organising teammates. Using subject-specific vocabulary accurately (technical terminology). Listening skills: following instructions, responding to coaching feedback. Providing constructive peer feedback using appropriate language and tone.

Maths

Calculating scores during 3v3 games (5 consecutive passes = 1 point). Recording and comparing frisbee golf scores across holes. Analysing improvement through data: first round vs second round scores. Understanding angles of release and trajectory geometry. Measuring distances for hole setup and accuracy assessment.

Science

Forces and motion: how spin stabilizes disc flight (angular momentum and gyroscopic effect). Air resistance and drag affecting flight path. Gravity's effect on disc trajectory. Biomechanics: muscle groups used in throwing (deltoids, rotator cuff, core, legs). Energy transfer from body through disc. Aerodynamics: disc shape and flight characteristics.

Computing

Data recording and analysis for performance tracking (frisbee golf scores, pass completion rates). Video analysis potential: recording performances and reviewing for technique improvement. Using digital tools for assessment matrices and target-setting documentation.

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning on playing field. Creating and reading tactical diagrams showing player positions. Understanding directions and movement patterns. Mapping frisbee golf course layout with distances and bearings.

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration in 3v3 games requiring constant communication and cooperation. Resilience and managing emotions when facing turnovers or defensive pressure. Leadership development through coaching roles and star performer recognition. Respect and sportsmanship in competitive situations. Self-awareness through honest self-assessment and target-setting. Growth mindset: viewing mistakes as learning opportunities.

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position centrally during multi-area activities for maximum visibility. During demonstrations, ensure all students can see without sun/light interference. During 3v3 games, position at edge of multiple grids where you can scan all games with regular focus rotation. Move dynamically - don't remain static.

Observation Focus

Priority 1: Safety - watch for inappropriate contact, collision risks, and environmental hazards. Priority 2: Technique - throwing mechanics, catching form, pivoting legality. Priority 3: Tactics - application of CLAP, defensive positioning, team organisation. Priority 4: Social dynamics - leadership, communication, inclusion, sportsmanship.

Intervention Points

Intervene immediately if: any physical contact occurs, unsafe throwing (excessive force or dangerous trajectories), students becoming frustrated/confrontational, technique errors that could cause injury (poor throwing mechanics causing arm strain). Intervene promptly if: persistent tactical errors, lack of inclusion or communication, non-participation. Use freeze coaching for teaching moments during games.

Demonstration Notes

All demonstrations should be clear, exaggerated for visibility, and performed from angle where all students can see. Use student volunteers to demonstrate concepts, but only select students you know will perform safely and reasonably competently. For technique demonstrations: show correct form, then deliberately show common mistake and explain why it's problematic, then show correct form again. Use slow-motion for complex movements. Commentary throughout: explain what you're doing as you demonstrate.

Verbal Cues

•'Soft hands - cushion the catch!'
•'CLAP - Catch, Look, Assess, Pass!'
•'Pivot foot stays planted!'
•'Eyes on the disc - track it all the way!'
•'Defenders: position, not contact!'
•'Communicate! Call for the pass!'
•'Snap that wrist for spin!'
•'Create space - spread out!'
•'Quality over power - accuracy first!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor space minimum 30m x 40m for multiple playing grids and frisbee golf course, or indoor sports hall. Adequate spacing between activity areas to prevent disc collisions. Clear boundaries marked with cones.

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards including water, debris, holes, or slippery patches. Outdoor: check for animal waste, litter, or sharp objects. Indoor: ensure floor is clean and not slippery. Check for overhead hazards if indoor (low beams, lights).

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Inspect all frisbees before use - no cracks, sharp edges, or damaged rims that could cause injury
•Cones positioned securely and not creating trip hazards in active playing areas
•Bibs clean and appropriate sizes - not too loose causing tripping hazard
•Obstacles for frisbee golf stable and secure - no potential to tip or fall if struck by disc
•No hard or heavy obstacles that could cause injury if students collide with them

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Disc strikes to face or head if students not paying attention to flight paths
•Collisions between students during dynamic movement in 3v3 games, particularly when multiple players tracking same disc
•Slips, trips, and falls during direction changes and pivoting movements
•Overexertion or muscle strains if inadequate warm-up or excessive throwing intensity
•Eye injuries from errant throws or discs at face height

Risk Mitigation

•Clear instruction: 'Watch for discs at all times - if you hear someone shout DISC, look up immediately!'
•Adequate spacing between playing grids and activity zones to reduce collision risk
•Comprehensive warm-up including dynamic stretching of throwing muscles (shoulders, wrists, core)
•Progressive skill building - starting with gentle throws, gradually increasing distance and intensity
•Reinforcement of non-contact rules repeatedly throughout 3v3 games
•Clear boundaries marked and enforced - students know to stop at boundary rather than running through to adjacent areas
•Cool-down including static stretching to prevent muscle soreness and injury
•Teacher positioning for maximum visibility of all activity areas simultaneously
•Freeze coaching technique allows immediate stop of play if unsafe situation develops

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position centrally during multi-grid activities to monitor all areas with regular rotation focus
•During frisbee golf: circulate between holes checking throwing technique and safety around obstacles
•During 3v3 games: watch particularly for defensive intensity escalating to inappropriate contact
•Monitor students with lower skill levels who may become frustrated - ensure they remain engaged safely
•Scan for environmental hazards throughout lesson - change in weather conditions, surface becoming slippery
•High-activity areas requiring close supervision: 3v3 games where collisions more likely
•Identify students with specific health conditions (asthma, recent injuries) and monitor appropriately

Emergency Procedures

Immediate stop signal (whistle blast, STOP command). All students freeze and lower frisbees immediately. Teacher assesses situation. For minor injuries: student sits out, ice/first aid applied. For significant injuries: appropriate first aid, send reliable student for additional help, stay with injured student, keep class calm and supervised. Emergency contact details and first aid kit accessible at all times. Known emergency exit routes from playing area.