Tennis
Year 4

           Scoring

• Tennis is played in sets, and each set is composed of games.
• To win a game, a player must score at least four points and have a two-point advantage over their opponent.
• The point scoring system is as follows:
• 0 points = Love
• 1 point = 15
• 2 points = 30
• 3 points = 40
• 4 points = Game (if leading by at least 2 points)

           Deuce:

• When the score is 40-40, it is called 'deuce'.
• To win a game from deuce, a player must score two consecutive points.
• Whichever player wins the next rally after deuce, gains 'advantage'.
• If the player with advantage then wins the next rally, they are the winner of that game. If the other player wins the next rally, the game goes back to deuce.

           Sets:

• A standard tennis match is typically played as the best of three sets (for women) or five sets (for men).
• To win a set, a player must be the first to win at least six games with a two-game advantage. If the set reaches 6-6, a tiebreaker is often played to determine the winner of the set.

           Serving:

• The server stands behind the baseline and serves the ball diagonally into the opponent's service box.
• The server gets two attempts (first and second serve). If they fail to get the ball in the service box on both attempts, it results in a 'double fault,' and the point is awarded to the opponent.

           Court:

• The tennis court is divided into two halves by a net.
• Each half consists of a service box and a baseline.
• The area between the net and the service line is called the ‘forecourt’, while the area between the service line and the baseline is the ‘backcourt’.

           Singles and Doubles:

• In singles, each player serves and receives from one side of the court.
• In doubles, each team has one player serve and the other receive from their respective service courts. The server's partner stands at the net, while the receiver's partner stands at the baseline.

           Scoring Terminology:

• In addition to the basic scoring mentioned earlier, tennis has specific terminology:
• Ace: A serve that is not touched by the receiver and results in a point for the server.
• Let: A serve that hits the net but lands in the correct service box (these should be replayed).
• Fault: A serve that lands outside the service box (2 faults in a row result in a point to the opponent).

           Boundaries:

• The ball must land within the boundaries of the court.
• If the ball lands outside the lines, it is considered "out" and the opponent wins the point.

           Continuous Play:

• Tennis is played with continuous rallies until a point is won.
• The point is won when one player fails to return the ball in accordance with the rules (e.g., hitting the ball out, hitting the net, or failing to return the opponent's shot).

In Lower Key Stage 2 Tennis, children should continue to develop racket and ball control, improving control when moving around, and increasing the accuracy and control when performing shots such as forehand and backhand. Our Year 4 Tennis 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.

Tennis 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. Tennis 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 Tennis is also great for promoting values such as fair play and for helping children develop confidence, control and whole-body fitness.

Lesson plans from PE Planning are created by PE Specialists. All and include all the resources required to deliver a complete Unit of Work - with full guidance, including illustrations. Choose to download either a quick reference plan or a full lesson plan. Our Year 4 Tennis lesson plans follow the National Curriculum and allow you to deliver fun, engaging and rewarding Tennis lessons to your Year 4 pupils.  Best of all, our Tennis plans are quick and easy to download and follow, making your life easier!