Unit Plan 27 (Grade 2 PE): Striking Games with Balloons & Beach Balls

Focus: Develop striking skills in a cooperative net-style setting by helping students tap balloons and beach balls with control, move into position, and work respectfully with partners and groups.

Grade Level: 2

Subject Area: Physical Education (Object Control • Cooperative Game Play • Movement Concepts)

Total Unit Duration: 1 core session + 2 optional sessions (1–3 weeks), 50–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students continue building striking skills by using them in simple, cooperative net-style games. Instead of trying to hit for power, students learn how to tap a balloon or beach ball with control, move under the object, and send it upward or over a low line to keep the rally going. This unit begins with partner balloon taps using hands and paddles so students can practice striking softly and tracking the object with their eyes. Students then apply those skills in Balloon Volleyball or Beach Ball Tap-Over, where they work with classmates to keep the object in play across a low rope or line. The unit helps students understand that good striking in net-style games depends on body control, moving in the right direction, adjusting to different levels, and cooperating with others.

Essential Questions

• How can I strike a balloon or beach ball with better control?
• What helps me move into the best place before I strike?
• How do high, medium, and low levels change the way I play a net-style game?
• How can I work respectfully with a partner or group to keep the rally going?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Strike a lightweight object with hands and paddles using improving control.
2. Combine movement and striking in a simple net-style game by tracking, moving, and tapping the object back into play.
3. Apply pathways, levels, and direction while moving to a balloon or beach ball.
4. Work cooperatively with partners and groups by taking turns, sharing equipment, and using kind words during play.

Standards Alignment — 2nd Grade (SHAPE America-based custom)

• PE:S1.2e – Object Control: Striking Strike a lightweight object (balloon, foam ball) with hands and long-handled implements (paddle, foam bat) with developing control.
  • Example: Students strike a balloon upward with a paddle, trying to keep it in the air for several hits.
• PE:S1.2f – Combining Skills in Simple Games Combine locomotor and object-control skills in simple game situations and challenges.
  • Example: Students run to pick up a ball, dribble it with their feet, and then kick it into a marked goal zone.
• PE:S2.2b – Pathways, Levels, Direction Apply movement concepts such as levels (high/medium/low), pathways (straight/curved/zigzag), and directions (forward/backward/sideways) while performing skills.
  • Example: Students travel through cone courses using assigned pathways and levels, such as low-level zigzag pathways.
• PE:S4.2b – Cooperation & Respect Work cooperatively with partners and groups, taking turns, sharing equipment, and using kind words.
  • Example: Students rotate through stations, share balls, and say “good job” to teammates.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can tap a balloon or beach ball with my hand or paddle using control.
• I can move to the object before I strike it.
• I can use high, medium, and low body positions to help me play.
• I can work with a partner or team and use kind words during the game.