KS2 · Physical education · Year 4
The forehand and backhand
Net and wall games: tactics to overcome an opponent through pickleball
Learn it. Recall it. Make it stick.
IllumED Slides
IllumED · 1/10
Your learning goal
I can use both the forehand and backhand shot and apply tactics to decide which shot is best to use in a rally.
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The forehand and backhand: slides adapted from the imported teaching text; recall questions created from its keywords, learning points and common mistakes. Self-check practice, with no automatic grading or XP. Answers stay on this page and are cleared when you leave.
What you’ll learn
I can use both the forehand and backhand shot and apply tactics to decide which shot is best to use in a rally.
Key learning points
- Move: returning to the middle of the court quickly after each shot means we are ready to return the ball again.
- Move: aim for space on the court increases our chance of scoring points against an opponent.
- Think: reflecting on our performance improves our decision making as to when to play a forehand or a backhand shot.
- Feel: managing our emotions when we lose and being respectful of the rules demonstrates excellent self discipline.
- Connect: striving to be respectful when we win or lose shows that we understand the importance of fairness.
Words to know
- rally
- a continuous number of shots played without stopping
- court
- an area marked out for playing games such as paddle tennis
- points
- a unit of scoring used to measure success in a game
Common mistakes
Pupils may struggle when switching from a cooperative rally to a competitive rally. Pupils may struggle to use their backhand and rely too much on their forehand.
A cooperative rally involves pupils trying to help one another to play longer rallies. A competitive game involves hitting the ball into space away from their opponent. Encourage pupils to use their forehand and backhand in rallies.
For parents, carers and teachers
- Pupils should reflect on placement of the ball. For example, if an opponent is on the left side of the court, where should the next shot be played? Check pupils are using both forehand and backhand. Use alternatives such as hand, hand paddles, other rackets if pickleball paddles are not available.