Dodgeball
Year 4

           Teams:

• Dodgeball is typically played with two teams, although variations can involve more teams.
• Each team should have an equal number of players.
• Too many players on a team will reduce individual activity time so consider more teams if a large class.

           Objective:

• The primary objective of dodgeball is to eliminate all players from the opposing team by hitting them with a thrown ball below the shoulders.
• The last team with players remaining wins the game.

           Equipment:

• Dodgeballs: Soft, foam or rubber balls are commonly used in dodgeball.
• The number of dodgeballs used can vary, but there are typically 6-10 balls in play at the start of a game.

           Court:

• Dodgeball is typically played in a rectangular or square court with boundary lines clearly marked.
• The size of the court can vary, but it's usually about the size of a basketball or volleyball court.

           Starting the Game:

• Teams line up on opposite ends of the court.
• The balls are placed along the centerline between the two teams.
• A signal (e.g., a whistle or a referee's call) starts the game, and players rush to retrieve the balls.

           Gameplay:

• Players can move anywhere within their team's side of the court but cannot cross the centerline.
• Players may only throw the dodgeballs to eliminate opponents or catch balls thrown by the opposing team.
• If a player is hit by a thrown ball below the shoulders, they are out and must leave the playing area.
• If a player catches a thrown ball, the player who threw the ball is out, and a player from the catching team may return to the game (usually the player who has been out the longest).

           Elimination:

• A player is eliminated if they are hit by a thrown ball, make an illegal throw, step out of bounds, or commit a foul (such as holding onto a ball for too long).
• Players who are eliminated must leave the court and stand in a designated area (the sidelines or an out-of-bounds area).

           Winning:

• The game continues until one team has no players left on the court.
• The team with at least one player remaining wins the game.

           Game Variations:

• There are numerous variations of dodgeball, including different rules, court sizes, and ball types.
• Some versions incorporate additional rules or objectives, such as using pins or other targets to win the game.

           Safety:

• It is essential to play dodgeball with sportsmanship and safety in mind.
• Players should avoid throwing balls excessively hard or at close range to prevent injuries.
• Players should only aim below shoulder height, or even below waist height.
• Additionally, players should be aware of their surroundings to avoid collisions.

With our lower KS2 Dodgeball lesson plans, children should continue to develop ball control, improving control when moving around, and increasing the accuracy and control when performing skills such as handling, striking, dodging and catching. These Dodgeball lesson plans improve decision making in game situations, allowing children to play shots and move into good positions on the court to make it difficult for opponents. Children are encouraged to work well with others, communicating and collaborating, whilst being fair and respectful when competing against others.

Dodgeball lessons play an important role in primary school PE.  They provide opportunities for children to use running, jumping, throwing and catching in game situations, and continue to develop balance, strength, agility and control.  Dodgeball lessons also give children a chance to participate in competitive games, using basic skills and knowledge to make it difficult for the opposition. Primary School Dodgeball is also great for promoting values such as fair play and for helping children develop resilience, control and whole-body fitness.

All PE Planning lesson plans are created by PE Specialists and include all the resources required to deliver a complete Unit of Work.  Each lesson plan includes full guidance, including illustrations, and you can choose to download either a quick reference plan or a full lesson plan. Our KS2 Dodgeball lesson plans follow the National Curriculum. Each lesson plan allows you to deliver fun, engaging and rewarding Dodgeball lessons to your Year 4 pupils.  Best of all, our Dodgeball plans are quick and easy to download and follow, making your life easier!