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Game application: consolidate outwitting an opponent

Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can use a range of different shots to hit the shuttlecock into space to win a point.

Key learning points

  1. Move: hitting the shuttlecock at pace using serves, forehands and backhands increases our chances of winning.
  2. Move: hitting the shuttlecock at pace and quickly returning to the middle of the court helps us to score points.
  3. Think: effective decision making helps us to play the correct shot into space, in order to score more points.
  4. Feel: striving to always respect the rules, even when we make mistakes demonstrates excellent self discipline.
  5. Connect: working together to resolve disagreements in a competition shows excellent communication and cooperation.

Keywords

  • Pace - hitting the shuttlecock faster towards our opponent

  • Competition - the process or act of trying to win

  • Winning - scoring more goals, tries, points than your opponents.

Common misconception

Pupils may struggle to hit the shuttlecock to the back of the court due to standing square on to the net. Pupils may avoid hitting backhand shots. Pupils may hit shuttlecock into the net.

Pupils must work on a side on position when hitting the shuttlecock to generate more power. Pupils should work on their backhand technique to develop confidence. Remove or reduce the height of the net if pupils are struggling.

Teacher tip

Try to offer pupils smaller rackets and always consider reducing the size of the court or the height of the net to adapt the game and make it more accesible for pupils. Where possible, try to differentiate the groups by ability to ensure the games are competitive.

Equipment

1 badminton racket per pupil, 1 shuttlecock between two, 30+ cones

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - physical activity

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
(Collection 2).

Prior knowledge starter quiz

4 Questions

Q1.
Which letter can be used to describe the grip we should use when serving?

W
X
Correct answer: V

Q2.
Which foot should be slightly behind when serving in badminton?

either foot
non-racket foot
Correct answer: racket foot

Q3.
If you are able to control your emotions in a game, what skill are you showing?

self-determination
Correct answer: self-discipline
self-identity

Q4.
If you start off a rally with a high serve, where would the space be to play your next shot?

the middle
the back
Correct answer: the front

4 Questions

Q1.
When playing a competitive game, what skill are you demonstrating if you respect the rules even when you are making mistakes

Correct Answer: self-discipline, self discipline

Q2.
Which serve would you use to try and force your opponent to the front of the court?

Correct Answer: low serve

Q3.
If you look across at your opponent and quickly identify where to hit the next shot, what skill are you showing?

good determination
Correct answer: good decision making
good position

Q4.
If you communicate well with your opponent in a game to resolve any disagreements, what are you demonstrating?

Correct Answer: co-operation, cooperation

To help you plan your 6 physical education lesson on: Game application: consolidate outwitting an opponent, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...