Unit Plan 25 (Grade 3 PE): Lacrosse Scoop & Toss

Focus: Build beginning implement control, improve scooping from the ground, and strengthen partner passing through simple lacrosse-style lead-up activities.

Grade Level: 3

Subject Area: Physical Education (Lacrosse Lead-Up • Scoop & Toss • Implement Control & Partner Play)

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

I. Introduction

Students explore lacrosse-style lead-up activities as a way to build control with an implement, improve hand-eye coordination, and learn how to work with a partner while moving safely in shared space. In this unit, students begin with scoop-and-hold drills using scoops/cups and soft balls so they can practice getting low, lifting the ball from the floor, and holding it under control before moving. They then apply those skills in Scoop & Pass Grids and Scoop-Relay Races, where they practice picking the ball up from the ground, carrying it briefly with control, and passing it to a partner or teammate using the right amount of force. Throughout the unit, students focus on safe implement use, staying in their own space, controlled scooping and tossing, and encouraging teammates during partner and group activities.

Essential Questions

• How can I scoop a ball from the ground with better control?
• What helps me carry and pass a ball safely with a scoop or cup?
• Why is space awareness important when everyone is using an implement?
• How can teamwork and encouragement help partner lacrosse activities go better?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Use a scoop or cup to pick up and control a soft ball with improving accuracy and stability.
2. Use personal and general space effectively while practicing scoop-and-pass activities.
3. Adjust effort and force for short scoops, controlled carries, and partner tosses.
4. Cooperate with classmates by taking turns, encouraging partners, and helping activities run smoothly.

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:S2.3c – Effort & Force to Match the Task Adjust speed, effort, and force (fast/slow, hard/soft) for successful performance in skills and games.
  • Example: Students throw softly to a nearby partner and with more force to a distant target in a throwing game.
• 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.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can scoop a ball from the floor with more control.
• I can hold and carry the ball safely in my scoop or cup.
• I can pass to a partner with the right amount of force.
• I can stay in my space and work safely with an implement.
• I can encourage my partner and help my group.