Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v3 - Primary 3
Ball Games
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Ball Games
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Nigeria 2025 app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Physical & Health Education
Class: Primary 3
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 1
Theme: Sports And Games
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Watch on YouTubeSee Facebook postMention the basic skills in:-Football;-Tennis;- Basketball Perform the basic skills in:-Football;-Tennis;-Basketball Mention safety rules in ball games:-Football;-Tennis;-Basketball
Ball Games Defined: Ball games are physical activities that involve the use of a ball and often a specific set of rules, played individually or in teams. They are excellent for developing hand-eye coordination, agility, speed, and endurance. A. Football (Soccer) Football is a team sport played with a spherical ball between two teams of 11 players. The game is played on a rectangular field called a pitch, with a goal at each end. The objective of the game is to score by getting the ball into the opposing goal.
Basic Skills in Football:
1. Dribbling: This is the skill of moving the ball along the ground using short, gentle touches with the feet while running.
Explanation: The player uses the inside, outside, or laces of their foot to tap the ball slightly ahead, keeping it close enough to maintain control and change direction. The head should be up to observe the field.
2. Passing (Inside Foot Pass): This is the skill of sending the ball accurately to a teammate. The inside foot pass is common for short, accurate passes.
Explanation: Stand with the non-kicking foot beside the ball, pointing towards the target. Swing the kicking leg back, turn the foot outwards, and strike the ball in the middle with the inside of the foot. Follow through towards the target.
3. Trapping (Stopping the Ball): This is the skill of bringing a moving ball under control.
Explanation: As the ball approaches, the player uses a part of their body (usually the foot, chest, or thigh) to absorb its momentum and stop it. For a foot trap, relax the ankle and gently place the sole or inside of the foot on top of or slightly against the ball as it arrives.
4. Shooting (Instep Shot): This is the skill of kicking the ball towards the opponent's goal to score.
Explanation: Approach the ball, place the non-kicking foot next to it, point toes down and stiffen the ankle of the kicking foot. Strike the ball with the laces (instep) of the foot with power, aiming for accuracy.
Safety Rules in Football:
1. Warm-up: Always perform stretching and light exercises before playing to prepare muscles and prevent injuries.
2. Appropriate Attire: Wear comfortable sports clothing, football boots (if available and suitable for the surface), and shin guards to protect the shins. Avoid sandals or bare feet on rough surfaces.
3. Check Playing Area: Ensure the playing field is free from sharp objects, stones, holes, or other hazards like broken bottles (common in local Nigerian fields) that could cause trips or injuries.
4. Fair Play: Avoid rough play, pushing, tripping, or tackling opponents dangerously. Respect the rules and the referee's decisions.
5. Hydration: Drink water before, during, and after playing, especially in the Nigerian heat, to prevent dehydration. B. Tennis Tennis is a racket sport where two players (singles) or two teams of two players (doubles) hit a ball with a racket over a net into the opponent's court. The objective is to hit the ball in such a way that the opponent cannot make a valid return.
Basic Skills in Tennis:
1. Grip (Forehand Grip): This refers to how a player holds the racket. A proper grip allows for control and power.
Explanation: For a basic forehand grip, shake hands with the racket handle. The palm should be on the top wide surface of the handle, with the V-shape formed by the thumb and index finger pointing towards the right shoulder for a right-handed player.
2. Serving: This is the act of putting the ball into play to start a point.
Explanation: Stand behind the baseline. Toss the ball up gently with one hand, then swing the racket with the other hand to hit the ball over the net into the opponent's service box.
3. Forehand Stroke: This is a groundstroke hit on the dominant side of the body.
Explanation: Turn the body sideways, take the racket back in a gentle swing, step forward, and hit the ball in front of the body, swinging through towards the target.
4. Volley: Hitting the ball before it into play to start a point.
Explanation: Stand behind the baseline. Toss the ball up gently with one hand, then swing the racket with the other hand to hit the ball over the net into the opponent's service box.
3. Forehand Stroke: This is a groundstroke hit on the dominant side of the body.
Explanation: Turn the body sideways, take the racket back in a gentle swing, step forward, and hit the ball in front of the body, swinging through towards the target.
4. Volley: Hitting the ball before it bounces on the court.
Explanation: At the net, keep the racket up. When the ball comes, step towards it and use a short, firm punch-like motion to hit the ball back over the net without a full swing.
Safety Rules in Tennis:
1. Warm-up: Engage in light jogging and stretching before playing to prevent muscle strains.
2. Proper Footwear: Wear tennis shoes or trainers with good grip to prevent slipping on the court surface.
3. Check Court: Ensure the tennis court is clean and free of debris, cracks, or water puddles. If playing in informal areas, clear away stones or other hazards.
4. Awareness of Others: Be aware of other players on nearby courts or practicing. Call out "Ball!" if your ball rolls onto another court.
5. Racket Safety: Always hold the racket securely and do not swing it carelessly, especially when others are close. C. Basketball Basketball is a team sport where two teams, most commonly of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop while preventing the opponent from doing so.
Basic Skills in Basketball:
1. Dribbling: This is the skill of bouncing the ball repeatedly with one hand to move it across the court.
Explanation: Use the fingertips, not the palm, to push the ball down. Keep the ball low (waist-high or lower) for control, and keep the head up to see teammates and opponents. Practice dribbling with both hands.
2. Passing (Chest Pass): This is a two-handed pass thrown from the chest, typically used for short to medium distances.
Explanation: Hold the ball with both hands at chest level. Step forward, extend arms fully, and push the ball directly to a teammate's chest. Snap the wrists outwards.
3. Passing (Bounce Pass): This is a two-handed pass thrown towards the ground, bouncing once before reaching a teammate.
Explanation: Hold the ball at waist level. Step forward, push the ball downwards towards a spot on the floor about two-thirds of the way to the receiver, ensuring it bounces up to their waist/chest level.
4. Shooting (Layup): This is a shot taken close to the basket, typically while running.
Explanation: Dribble towards the basket. Take two steps, jumping off the outside foot. While in the air, extend the shooting arm (using the hand on the same side as the jumping foot) to gently lay the ball off the backboard into the basket.
5. Shooting (Set Shot): A shot taken from a stationary position.
Explanation: Hold the ball in the shooting hand, supported by the non-shooting hand. Bend knees slightly, aim for the basket, and push the ball up towards the hoop, extending the arm and wrist through the shot. * Safety Rules in Basketball:
1. Warm-up: Always stretch and jog before playing to prevent muscle injury.
2. Proper Footwear: Wear athletic shoes with good ankle support and non-marking soles to prevent slipping and ankle sprains.
3. Check Court: Inspect the court for any slippery spots, loose items, or damaged surfaces before playing.
4. Awareness of Others: Avoid collisions by being aware of teammates and opponents. No pushing, holding, or tripping.
5. Hydration: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after games, especially in hot Nigerian weather.
Phase 1: Introduction and Review (10 minutes)
Teacher Activity: Begins the lesson by asking students about their favourite physical activities or games they play at home or in school. Introduces the topic "Ball Games" and states the lesson objectives clearly. Asks students to name some ball games they know, guiding them towards Football, Tennis, and Basketball.
Student Activity: Respond to teacher's questions about favourite games. Listen attentively to the introduction and objectives. Name various ball games they are familiar with.
Phase 2: Explanation and Demonstration of Basic Skills (25 minutes)
Teacher Activity: Explains each ball game (Football, Tennis, Basketball) briefly. For each game, introduces and demonstrates 2-3 basic skills step-by-step.
Football: Demonstrates dribbling (using inside/outside of foot), passing (inside foot), and simple trapping.
Tennis: Demonstrates holding a racket (forehand grip) and the motion of a forehand stroke (without a ball initially, then with a soft practice ball if available). Explains serving motion. (Emphasize simplified demonstration due to likely lack of full equipment).
Basketball: Demonstrates basic dribbling (low and controlled), chest pass, and bounce pass. Demonstrates a simple shot motion (set shot or layup without jumping too high). Encourages students to observe closely and ask questions. Provides cues for proper posture and movement for each skill.
Student Activity: Observe teacher's demonstrations carefully. Attempt to mimic the movements (shadow practice) without a ball initially. Ask clarifying questions about the skills.
Phase 3: Practical Application and Practice (30 minutes)
Teacher Activity: Organizes students into small groups (e.g., 3-5 students per group). Distributes available equipment (e.g., footballs, tennis rackets/soft balls, basketballs). If equipment is limited, students take turns or use improvised equipment (e.g., rolled-up clothes for a ball, sticks for rackets). Supervises and guides each group as they practice the demonstrated skills.
Football: Groups practice dribbling in a designated area, simple passing drills (passing to a partner), and trapping a rolled ball.
Tennis: Groups practice forehand swing with racket (or hand/improvised paddle) and a soft ball against a wall or to a partner. Practice serving motion.
Basketball: Groups practice dribbling while moving, chest pass and bounce pass to a partner. Practice simple shooting motion towards a target (hoop, wall, or designated spot). Provides individual feedback and corrects mistakes. Ensures all students get an opportunity to participate actively.
Student Activity: Work in groups to practice the basic skills. Follow teacher's instructions and feedback. Actively participate and help peers.
Phase 4: Discussion of Safety Rules (15 minutes)
Teacher Activity: Gathers students and initiates a discussion on safety during ball games. Asks students to suggest ways to play safely. Introduces and explains the key safety rules for Football, Tennis, and Basketball, emphasizing local contexts (e.g., checking for hazards in playgrounds). Asks questions to check understanding of why each rule is important.
Student Activity: Engage in the discussion on safety. Suggest safety measures. Listen to explanations of safety rules. Answer questions about the importance of safety rules.
Phase 5: Conclusion and Recap (5 minutes)
Teacher Activity: Recaps the basic skills and safety rules discussed for all three games. Addresses any remaining questions. Assigns a simple take-home task (e.g., draw one skill from any of the games).
Student Activity: Participate in the recap. Ask final questions. Note down any assignments. The teacher should guide students through these questions, providing immediate feedback and corrections.
Question 1: Which football skill involves moving the ball gently with your feet while running across the field?
Solution: Dribbling.
Commentary: This assesses the understanding of a fundamental football skill and its purpose.
Question 2: Explain one important safety rule you must follow when playing any ball game, especially in our school field.
Solution: (Teacher accepts various correct answers, e.g.) Always warm up before playing to prevent injuries. OR Check the playing area for sharp objects or holes before starting the game. OR Wear proper shoes to avoid slipping.
Commentary: This checks for general safety awareness and encourages application to a familiar context.
Question 3: If you want to send the basketball to a teammate's chest from a short distance, which type of pass would you use? Describe how to perform it.
Solution: Chest Pass. To perform it, hold the ball with both hands at chest level, step forward, extend arms fully, and push the ball directly to a teammate's chest, snapping the wrists outwards.
Commentary: This assesses the identification of a specific basketball skill and the ability to describe its execution.
Question 4: Imagine you are playing tennis. How should you hold the racket for a basic forehand shot?
Solution: Hold the racket like shaking hands with the handle. The palm should be on the top wide surface of the handle, with the V-shape formed by the thumb and index finger pointing towards the right shoulder (for a right-handed player).
Commentary: This checks understanding of the basic tennis grip, a foundational skill.
Question 5: Name two safety items you should wear or check for before playing football to protect yourself.
Solution: (Teacher accepts any two from): Shin guards (for protection), proper football boots/trainers (for grip and foot protection), checking the field for hazards like stones or broken bottles.
Commentary: This assesses practical safety knowledge related to football, with a nod to Nigerian field conditions.
Community Sports and Health Promotion: Many Nigerian communities organize informal football matches or local youth sports events. Learning these skills allows students to actively participate, promoting physical fitness, reducing sedentary lifestyles, and fostering community bonds. They can apply safety rules to ensure their well-being in local playgrounds where surfaces might be uneven or equipment limited.
Developing Social Skills and Character: Ball games inherently teach teamwork, communication, leadership, and fair play. In Nigerian society, where communal living and respect for elders and rules are important, these games provide a practical platform for learners to develop these values, understanding the consequences of foul play or disrespect for opponents/officials. Potential for Talent Identification and Career Paths: Nigeria has a rich history in sports, particularly football and basketball. Early exposure and skill development can help identify talented individuals who might pursue sports as a hobby or even a professional career, contributing to Nigeria's presence on the global sports stage and providing economic opportunities. Observing local football stars or tennis players can inspire children.