Unit Plan 27 (Grade 4 PE): Multi-Target & Castle Games

Focus: Develop throwing accuracy, improve defensive positioning, and strengthen team strategy by helping students decide when to attack targets and when to protect them.

Grade Level: 4

Subject Area: Physical Education (Target Games • Offense & Defense • Team Strategy)

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

I. Introduction

Students explore target games as activities that combine throwing skill, movement, teamwork, and decision-making. In this unit, students begin with overhand and underhand throws at wall or cone targets placed at different distances so they can practice changing force, aim, and release point. They then apply those skills in Castle Ball and Pin Knockdown games, where teams must decide who should attack targets, who should defend them, and how to rotate responsibilities as the game changes. Throughout the unit, students focus on accurate throwing, smart defensive movement, and learning that successful target games depend on communication and strategy, not just power.

Essential Questions

• How can I throw with better accuracy at different distances?
• When should I throw softly, and when should I throw with more force?
• What does strong defensive positioning look like in a target game?
• How can a team decide who should defend and who should attack?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Throw overhand and underhand with improving accuracy toward different targets and at different distances.
2. Combine skills in sequence, such as field → move → throw → recover to defense.
3. Adjust effort, force, and timing so throws match the distance and target size.
4. Apply defensive strategies such as protecting space, guarding targets, and moving into useful positions.
5. Work cooperatively with teammates by rotating roles, supporting others, and helping the team stay organized.

Standards Alignment — 4th Grade (SHAPE America-based custom)

• PE:S1.4c – Throwing & Catching with Accuracy Throw (overhand and underhand) and catch objects with accuracy and consistency while both partners or players are moving.
  • Example: Students complete passing patterns in small-sided games, leading a moving teammate with an accurate throw.
• PE:S1.4f – Combining Skills in Game Sequences Combine multiple skills (dribble, pass, catch, shoot, strike, run, dodge) in game-like sequences with basic fluidity.
  • Example: In handball lead-up games, students catch a pass, take a few steps to open space, and then pass or shoot toward a goal.
• PE:S2.4c – Adjusting Effort, Force, and Timing Adjust speed, force, and timing of movements and skills to match the demands of the task (distance, target size, defender pressure).
  • Example: Students throw softly to a nearby teammate and more forcefully to a distant target, or time their jump to catch a thrown ball at its peak.
• PE:S2.4e – Defensive Strategies & Position Play Demonstrate basic defensive ideas such as maintaining proper position (between opponent and goal), marking a player, and attempting legal interceptions.
  • Example: A student stays between an opponent and the goal in handball or soccer, trying to block shots or intercept passes without fouling.
• PE:S4.4b – Cooperation, Leadership, and Team Roles Work cooperatively with classmates, accept and share roles (captain, scorekeeper, equipment manager), and demonstrate inclusive leadership.
  • Example: During small-sided games, students rotate roles fairly, encourage quieter peers to participate, and help organize teams.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can throw overhand and underhand with better aim.
• I can change how hard I throw based on how far away the target is.
• I can help defend by standing in a good spot and reacting quickly.
• I can switch between attacking and defending when my team needs it.
• I can work with my team and rotate roles fairly.