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      Creating space to win a point using a paddle

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can control and accurately direct the ball with my paddle towards space in order to win a point.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: hitting a forehand shot with control and accuracy allows us to aim for spaces (targets) around the court.
      2. Move: varying the power of shots and hitting into space moves our opponent around the court helping us to win points.
      3. Think: controlling our forehand shots increases our accuracy and the likelihood of us winning points.
      4. Feel: respecting the rules of the game and my opponent even when feeling upset demonstrates self discipline
      5. Connect: congratulating our opponents when they win a point shows you are being respectful.

      Keywords

      • Opponent - a person or team we are playing against in a game situation

      • Game - an activity or sport in which people compete with each other according to agreed rules

      • Win - to beat our opponent in a game situation

      Common misconception

      Pupils will often move too close to the ball and not give themselves enough room to hit the ball accurately. Pupils will often hit the ball with too much power and a lack of control.

      Remind pupils that the ball should be in front and slightly to the side of their body when they make contact with the ball. Pupils should be given time to experiment with the amount of power needed to hit the targets, and encourage a smooth swing.

      Teacher tip

      The feeder may need to move closer to the net to provide an accurate feed. You can use a bigger/alternative ball if pupils are struggling to control their forehand. Use alternatives such as hand, hand paddles, other rackets if pickleball paddles are not available.

      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.
      What do we call the person we play against in pickleball?

      a team
      Correct answer: an opponent
      a paddle

      Q2.
      If we hit a forehand shot with control, what will this improve?

      flexibility
      strength
      Correct answer: accuracy

      Q3.
      What are we demonstrating when we congratulate our opponents?

      Correct answer: respect
      sadness
      anger

      Q4.
      After every shot, what position should we return to?

      sprint start
      Correct answer: ready position
      sat down

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What should our eyes focus on when waiting to play our next shot?

      Correct Answer: the ball , ball

      Q2.
      If we stick to the rules and keep accurate scores in a game, what are we showing?

      Correct answer: self discipline
      power
      excitement

      Q3.
      If we hit our forehand with control and accuracy, what are we more likely to do?

      feel frustated
      Correct answer: win points
      play badly

      Q4.
      How can you show respect towards your opponent when they play well?

      Correct Answer: congratulate them , congratulate, say well done , say congratulations

      To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Creating space to win a point using a paddle, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...