Unit Plan 12 (Grade 1 PE): Catching with Success
Help Grade 1 students build catching skills and confidence with scarves and soft balls while promoting teamwork, kindness, and partner cooperation.
Focus: Help students build hand-eye coordination and catching confidence through soft, success-friendly tossing activities with scarves and balls while practicing kind partner behavior.
Grade Level: 1
Subject Area: Physical Education (Object Control • Partner Skills • Cooperation & Respect)
Total Unit Duration: 2 core sessions + 2 optional sessions (1–2 weeks), 20–30 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students begin building stronger catching skills by learning that successful catching starts with tracking an object, getting the body ready, and using gentle hands. In Grade 1, many students feel more confident when they begin with slow-moving objects like scarves before moving to soft balls. This unit uses a toss-and-catch warm-up and a fun Partner Rainbow Toss activity to help students practice catching with success while also learning how to take turns, encourage a partner, and work together kindly. The goal is to help students feel safe, capable, and proud as they improve their catching skills.
Essential Questions
- How can I catch an object with more success?
- What helps my eyes and hands work together when I catch?
- How can a partner help me feel more confident while I practice?
- What does it look and sound like to be respectful in partner activities?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Demonstrate developing catching skill with scarves and soft balls.
- Track a tossed object with their eyes and use ready hands for a successful catch.
- Work cooperatively with a partner by taking turns, encouraging one another, and adjusting distance for success.
- Participate actively in partner catching activities while following teacher directions and safety expectations.
Standards Alignment — 1st Grade (SHAPE America-based custom)
- PE:S1.1c Demonstrate basic object-control skills such as rolling, throwing, catching, kicking, and striking with developing accuracy.
- Example: Students throw a ball toward a target or catch a ball tossed by a partner.
- PE:S4.1b Demonstrate cooperation and respect for others during partner and group activities.
- Example: Students take turns during skill stations and encourage teammates.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can watch an object and try to catch it.
- I can use my hands and body to get ready for a catch.
- I can work kindly with a partner and take turns.
- I can help my partner be successful too.