Unit Plan 11 (Grade 1 PE): Underhand Toss Basics

Focus: Help students develop a basic underhand toss with improving form, aim, and control through playful tossing challenges and target games.

Grade Level: 1

Subject Area: Physical Education (Object Control • Movement Concepts • Active Participation)

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

I. Introduction

Students begin building stronger throwing skills by focusing on the underhand toss. In Grade 1 PE, this skill helps students learn how to swing low, release upward, and aim toward a target with growing control. Through a fun beanbag toss-and-catch warm-up and a playful Bucket Toss Challenge, students practice sending objects to near and far targets while noticing how force, direction, and aim change their results. The goal is to help students feel successful with a basic tossing pattern while staying active, safe, and excited to improve.

Essential Questions

• How can I use an underhand toss with better control?
• What helps me aim at a target?
• How do I change my toss for a close or far target?
• How can I stay active and safe while practicing tossing skills?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a basic underhand toss with improving accuracy and control.
2. Apply movement concepts such as force and direction when tossing to targets.
3. Participate actively in tossing games and challenges during class.
4. Follow teacher directions and safe routines while using beanbags and targets.

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:S3.1a Participate actively in moderate-to-vigorous physical activities during class.
  • Example: Students engage in running, jumping, and movement games for sustained periods.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can use an underhand toss to send a beanbag or ball toward a target.
• I can toss softly for a close target and stronger for a far target.
• I can try to aim where I want the object to go.
• I can stay active and follow directions during tossing activities.