Unit Plan 10 (Grade 1 PE): Rolling with Control

Focus: Help students develop controlled rolling to targets by practicing direction, force, and safe routines through playful partner work and bowling-style games.

Grade Level: 1

Subject Area: Physical Education (Object Control • Movement Concepts • Rules & Safety)

Total Unit Duration: 2 core sessions + 2 optional sessions (1–2 weeks), 20–30 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students begin building stronger object-control skills by learning how to roll a ball with better aim, control, and force. In Grade 1 PE, rolling is an important early skill because it helps students understand how to send an object toward a target in a safe and controlled way. Through a simple sit-and-roll partner warm-up and a fun Bowling Alley Roll game, students practice rolling balls straight, adjusting how hard they roll, and aiming toward pins or targets from different distances. The goal is to help students feel successful using an underhand rolling motion while also following class routines and safety expectations.

Essential Questions

• How can I roll a ball with more control?
• What helps a ball roll straight toward a target?
• How do I change the force of my roll for a near or far target?
• How do PE rules and routines help rolling games stay safe and fun?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate rolling with improving control and accuracy toward a target.
2. Apply movement concepts such as direction and force during rolling activities.
3. Follow PE rules, routines, and safety expectations during partner and station play.
4. Participate actively in rolling games while showing safe body and equipment use.

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:S2.1a Apply movement concepts such as speed, direction, levels, and pathways during activities.
  • Example: Students move quickly in straight pathways and slowly in curved pathways during a game.
• PE:S4.1a Follow rules, routines, and safety guidelines during physical activities.
  • Example: Students line up safely and follow directions during movement games.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can roll a ball toward a target with control.
• I can roll softly for a close target and harder for a far target.
• I can try to make my ball roll straight.
• I can follow rolling game rules and use equipment safely.