Lesson 2 - Throwing & Defence Skills
Strategic Movement
β’Year 9
β’Ultimate Frisbee
β’Start Planning Better PE Lessons
Sign up free to access 3 complete units per month, unlimited activity library, and your personal locker.
What's included
- Complete activity instructions & timing
- Teaching tips & differentiation strategies
- Assessment guidance & success criteria
- Downloadable lessons & units
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
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
Pre-sorted into two colour groups for quick distribution
Alternative: Coloured bands or pinnies
Set up 9-hole frisbee golf course before lesson - varied distances 5-20 metres
Alternative: Markers, spots, or natural landmarks
Create varied challenges: ground targets, elevated targets, distance throws, accuracy through gaps
Alternative: Cones in circles, hoops on stands, bins, posts, trees (outdoor), benches
For demonstrating tactical concepts and recording star performers
Alternative: Tablet with diagrams, printed visual aids
Distributed during plenary, pens/pencils available
Alternative: Digital assessment on tablets, laminated reusable sheets
Key Vocabulary
The way you hold the frisbee, typically with four fingers under the rim and thumb on top
The moment the disc leaves your hand, controlling spin and direction
The trajectory of the disc flight - flat, hyzer (tilted away), or anhyzer (tilted towards)
A throwing technique using a sidearm motion, disc released from the thumb side of the body
A throwing technique using an across-body motion, disc released from the opposite side
Keeping one foot planted as a pivot point while moving the other foot to create passing angles
Catch, Look, Assess, Pass - a tactical framework for decision-making with possession
A deceptive movement or throwing motion to mislead the defender
When possession changes to the opposing team due to incomplete pass or interception
Defensive technique of staying close to an opponent to limit their movement and passing options
The ability to watch both the disc and your opponent simultaneously
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
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
- β’'Soft hands - cushion the catch!'
- β’'CLAP - Catch, Look, Assess, Pass!'
- β’'Pivot foot stays planted!'
- β’'Eyes on the disc - track it all the way!'
- β’'Defenders: position, not contact!'
- β’'Communicate! Call for the pass!'
- β’'Snap that wrist for spin!'
- β’'Create space - spread out!'
- β’'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
- β’Inspect all frisbees before use - no cracks, sharp edges, or damaged rims that could cause injury
- β’Cones positioned securely and not creating trip hazards in active playing areas
- β’Bibs clean and appropriate sizes - not too loose causing tripping hazard
- β’Obstacles for frisbee golf stable and secure - no potential to tip or fall if struck by disc
- β’No hard or heavy obstacles that could cause injury if students collide with them
Risk Management
Key Risks
- β’Disc strikes to face or head if students not paying attention to flight paths
- β’Collisions between students during dynamic movement in 3v3 games, particularly when multiple players tracking same disc
- β’Slips, trips, and falls during direction changes and pivoting movements
- β’Overexertion or muscle strains if inadequate warm-up or excessive throwing intensity
- β’Eye injuries from errant throws or discs at face height
Risk Mitigation
- β’Clear instruction: 'Watch for discs at all times - if you hear someone shout DISC, look up immediately!'
- β’Adequate spacing between playing grids and activity zones to reduce collision risk
- β’Comprehensive warm-up including dynamic stretching of throwing muscles (shoulders, wrists, core)
- β’Progressive skill building - starting with gentle throws, gradually increasing distance and intensity
- β’Reinforcement of non-contact rules repeatedly throughout 3v3 games
- β’Clear boundaries marked and enforced - students know to stop at boundary rather than running through to adjacent areas
- β’Cool-down including static stretching to prevent muscle soreness and injury
- β’Teacher positioning for maximum visibility of all activity areas simultaneously
- β’Freeze coaching technique allows immediate stop of play if unsafe situation develops
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- β’Position centrally during multi-grid activities to monitor all areas with regular rotation focus
- β’During frisbee golf: circulate between holes checking throwing technique and safety around obstacles
- β’During 3v3 games: watch particularly for defensive intensity escalating to inappropriate contact
- β’Monitor students with lower skill levels who may become frustrated - ensure they remain engaged safely
- β’Scan for environmental hazards throughout lesson - change in weather conditions, surface becoming slippery
- β’High-activity areas requiring close supervision: 3v3 games where collisions more likely
- β’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.