Unit Plan 30 (Grade 3 PE): Four-Square & Wall Games
Build Grade 3 PE skills with four-square and wall games that improve hand striking, anticipation, teamwork, and fair playground etiquette through active play.
Focus: Develop striking with hands, improve anticipation and reaction, and reinforce playground game etiquette through simple four-square and wall-ball activities.
Grade Level: 3
Subject Area: Physical Education (Four-Square • Wall Games • Hand Striking & Playground Etiquette)
Total Unit Duration: 1 core session + 2 optional sessions (1–3 weeks), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students explore four-square and wall games as a way to practice striking with hands, anticipating where a ball will go, and learning how to play simple playground games fairly with classmates. In this unit, students begin with hand striking on the wall using two-hand taps and one-hand taps so they can practice sending a soft ball with control and getting ready for the next bounce or return. They then apply those skills in Four-Square and Wall Ball (safe version), where they learn to watch the ball, move into good space, take turns, and use class-agreed conflict-resolution tools when small disagreements happen. Throughout the unit, students focus on control, spacing, cooperation, and the idea that playground games are most fun when everyone knows how to play fairly and respectfully.
Essential Questions
- How can I strike a ball with my hands using more control?
- What helps me get ready for the next bounce or return?
- How can I use space safely during four-square and wall games?
- What should I do if a disagreement happens during play?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Strike a soft ball with hands using improving control and direction.
- Use personal and general space effectively during four-square and wall games.
- Cooperate with classmates by taking turns, encouraging others, and following playground game routines.
- Use simple conflict-resolution strategies so games can continue productively.
Standards Alignment — 3rd Grade (SHAPE America-based custom)
- PE:S1.3e – Striking with Implements Strike a lightweight object (balloon, foam ball, yarn ball) with hands or implements (paddles, short-handled rackets, foam bats) with developing accuracy and control.
- Example: Students strike a ball off a tee into a designated field area or tap a balloon over a low net to a partner.
- PE:S2.3a – Space Awareness & Positioning Use knowledge of personal and general space to find open areas, avoid collisions, and position appropriately during games.
- Example: In keep-away games, students move away from defenders to create open passing lanes.
- PE:S4.3b – Cooperation, Encouragement, and Teamwork Cooperate with partners and teams, share equipment, take turns, and encourage others.
- Example: Students rotate through stations smoothly, give positive feedback to teammates, and help reset equipment.
- PE:S4.3d – Conflict Resolution Strategies Use simple, agreed-upon strategies to resolve conflicts (e.g., rock-paper-scissors, re-play, teacher-supported discussion) so games can continue productively.
- Example: When two students disagree who was tagged first, they use rock-paper-scissors and accept the outcome.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can strike the ball with my hands using more control.
- I can move into safe space and get ready for the next play.
- I can take turns and help games run fairly.
- I can use a calm strategy to solve a disagreement.