Franklin Elementary School Physical Education.

Franklin students learn how to throw & catch... 10/24/2008

Notice that the opposite foot is forward and there is a good follow through of the throwing hand.

Franklin students have spent a lot of time in the last few weeks of school learning how to do an overarm throw correctly & how to catch an object. Initially we used the yellow playground ball for bouncing and catching. Students learned that they needed to watch the ball, get their hands ready & squeeze the ball tightly to keep it in their hands. Students tried catching these balls above their heads, down close to the ground, as they walker forwards & backwards, with a big jump and from their partner.

The overhand throw is critical to many sports. It is really important that kids learn to step forward with their opposite foot when throwing. High school PE teachers have told us that kids who still cannot do it as teenagers have many problems with sports like baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, badminton etc. where having that opposite foot out in front is critical for proper technique.

Franklin students learned the following four key points for a good overhand throw...

* Start sideways to your target.

* Get their ball ready; up behind their head with their elbow up high.

* Step with the front and opposite foot towards the target.

* Turn the body and bellybutton towards the target.

THROW HARDand FAST to get better!

With some of the students we worked on the underhand throw too. Again the emphasis was on getting the opposite foot out in front. This photo shows the beanbag toss.

Franklin students always love to use the milkjug scoops. This is a great way for our younger students to feel successful as they improve their skill at catching. To make your own scoop at home, cut the bottom 2 inches off a clean milkjug. Your child will show you how its used!

Older and more skillful students love to challenge themselves with jumps & slides...