Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 3

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.

Performance objectives

• Balance on one foot for 10 seconds.
• Perform a sequence of different movements.
• Throw a ball accurately to a partner.
• Catch a ball with two hands.
• Explain why being active is important.

Lesson summary

Overview: This lesson focuses on fundamental fitness activities and movement skills, which are the building blocks for a healthy and active life. In Grade 3, learners are developing greater control over their bodies, and this week’s activities are designed to enhance their balance, coordination, and ability to move in different ways (locomotion). In South Africa, being active is part of our culture, from playing soccer in the park to dancing and enjoying traditional games like kgati (skipping) or dibeke.

Lesson notes

This section explains the core skills we are developing this week. Fitness is not about being the best at sport; it's about having a healthy body that can do all the things you want it to do, like run, jump, and play with your friends.

Concept 1: Balance - Your Body's Anchor What is it? Balance is the skill of keeping your body steady and controlled, so you don't fall over. We use balance all the time, even when we are just standing or sitting!

Types of Balance: Static Balance: This is balancing while staying in one spot. Think of a flamingo standing on one leg or a statue in a park. It’s about being still and strong.

Dynamic Balance: This is balancing while you are moving, like when you walk on a narrow wall or ride a scooter. Why is it important? Good balance helps you in almost every physical activity. It helps you stay on your feet when you run fast and change direction in a game of tag, or when you walk on an uneven path. It is a key safety skill.

Example: Imagine you are carrying a bucket of water. You need to use your balance to walk steadily so the water doesn't spill. Your body automatically makes small adjustments to keep you upright.

Concept 2: Locomotion - Moving Your Body What is it? Locomotion is just a big word for all the different ways we can move our whole body from one place to another.

Key Locomotor Skills: Hopping: Moving by jumping off one foot and landing on the same foot. Think of a bunny or playing hopscotch (amagende).

Skipping: This is a combination of a step and a hop. You step forward on one foot, then do a small hop on that same foot before stepping with the other foot.

It has a rhythm: step-hop, step-hop, step-hop.

Galloping: Moving forward with one foot always in the lead. It feels like you are a horse. Step with your front foot, then your back foot quickly slides up to meet it: step-slide, step-slide.

Jumping: Pushing off with two feet and landing on two feet. You bend your knees to get power and to land softly like a cat. Why is it important? Learning different locomotor skills makes you more coordinated and agile. It allows you to move efficiently and playfully, which is essential for most games and sports.

Concept 3: Ball Skills - Hand-Eye Coordination What is it? This is your brain, eyes, and hands all working together as a team. Your eyes see the ball, your brain tells your hands where to go, and your hands perform the action of throwing or catching.

How to Throw (for accuracy): Look at your target: Your eyes tell your body where to aim.

Point your other arm: Point your non-throwing arm at your target. This helps you aim.

Step forward: Step with the foot opposite your throwing arm (if you throw with your right hand, step with your left foot). This gives your throw power and balance.

Follow through: Let your arm swing forward naturally after you release the ball.

How to Catch: Watch the ball: Keep your eyes on the ball all the way from your partner's hands to yours.

Make a basket: Put your hands out in front of you with your pinkie fingers close together to make a 'basket' for the ball.

Soft hands: As the ball touches your hands, pull your arms in towards your body. This is like catching a water balloon – if your hands are hard, it will bounce away! This 'cushions' the catch. Guided Practice (With Solutions)

Activity 1: The Balancing Tree Question: Find your own space. We are going to become trees. Plant one foot firmly on the ground. This is your roots. Now, slowly lift your other foot and place it on the inside of your standing leg. Hold your branches (arms) out to the side. Can you stay still and balanced for 10 slow counts? Try the other leg. Solution and

Commentary: The teacher counts slowly to 10. "Well done! To help you balance, find one spot on the wall in front of you that is not moving and stare at it. This is called a focus point. Don't look at your friends who are wobbling! If you feel wobbly, make your branches wider or lower your foot. It's okay if one side is easier; most people have a favourite balancing leg!" Activity 2: The Movement Train Question: We are going to make a movement train. I will be the engine and call out the movement. Everyone line up behind me. First, we will gallop to the far cones. Ready, go! Now, let's skip back to the start. Ready, go! Solution and

Commentary: The teacher leads the line, demonstrating the correct form. "Great galloping! Remember to keep the same foot in front. It should feel like you are riding a horse. Now for skipping, listen to the rhythm: 'step-hop, step-hop'. Keep it light and bouncy! This activity helps us switch between different movements and improves our coordination." Activity 3: Partner Catch Question: With a partner, stand about three big steps apart. One person will gently toss the ball using an underhand throw (like you are bowling). The other person will try to catch it with two hands. Do five catches each and then swap roles. Solution and

Commentary: The teacher circulates and gives feedback.