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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can throw the ball accurately using the correct underarm throwing technique.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: when throwing, step forward with the opposite foot to the throwing hand, following through pointing at the target.
      2. Move: throwing the ball quickly and accurately to our teammates is important when fielding in a game.
      3. Think: knowing why we throw quickly and accurately helps us to stop the batting team from scoring points.
      4. Feel: continuing to try improve our underarm throwing technique and helping others to improve demonstrates integrity.
      5. Connect: it is important to respect our partners and work together to improve our throwing accuracy.

      Keywords

      • Accuracy - the ability to control where we throw an object

      • Teammates - a person who is on the same team as you in a sport, game or any group activity

      • Throw - using your hand to send a ball through the air to a specific target or area

      Common misconception

      Pupils throw with too much force when aiming for a target.

      Managing the right amount force of a throw requires practise and trial and error to judge how much force is needed.

      Teacher tip

      Allow for lots of practise time with different throwing objects, over different distances and with a variety of sized targets. This will help pupils judge the 'feel' of the force required in the execution of the throw.

      Equipment

      30+ cones; balls and a variety of throwing objects

      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 is the role of a fielder?

      strike the ball
      Correct answer: retrieve the ball
      score points

      Q2.
      What strategy can a batter use to score points?

      Correct answer: hit into space
      run slowly
      miss the ball

      Q3.
      What is the best body position to strike a ball?

      forwards
      low
      Correct answer: sideways

      Q4.
      What should we do when we miss a target?

      Correct answer: keep trying
      give up
      complain

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      When a teammate drops the ball, how can we respond?

      Correct answer: help them
      get annoyed
      shout their name

      Q2.
      What makes an effective fielder?

      gets distracted
      runs slowly
      Correct answer: reacts quickly

      Q3.
      How can we show the thrower we are ready to receive their pass?

      stand sideways
      Correct answer: stand facing them
      stand behind them

      Q4.
      What can impact upon the accuracy of a throw?

      Correct Answer: speed, technique, body position

      To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Throwing underarm with accuracy, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...