Tennis - Lesson 3

The Year 6 tennis lesson plans are meticulously crafted to enhance the skills of young students in various aspects of the game. The third lesson in the series aims to refine pupils' footwork and improve their ability to return serves. The objectives are clear: students should be able to handle both underarm and overarm serves and effectively return them. To achieve these goals, the lesson is divided into a warm-up, main activities, and a cool-down session, each lasting approximately 10 minutes. The warm-up focuses on agility and footwork, using a ladder drill where pupils navigate a series of cones with different stepping patterns. Main activities include practicing serve returns and incorporating movement drills that simulate match conditions. The cool-down involves gentle jogging and stretching, allowing students to reflect on the skills they've practised, such as their ready position and serve return techniques.

Throughout the lesson, key teaching points are emphasised to ensure proper technique and understanding. Pupils are encouraged to maintain a balanced and alert ready position, to adjust their racket face towards the target, and to recover quickly after making a shot. Competitive elements are woven into the activities, with pupils working in pairs or small groups to apply their skills in a game-like environment. The lesson plan also offers extensions and variations to cater to different skill levels, ensuring that each child is both challenged and supported in their development. This structured approach to teaching tennis not only equips pupils with the technical skills required for the sport but also fosters a strategic mindset and a love for the game.