Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2
Sports Participation
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Sports Participation
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Physical Education Health Core
Class: SHS 2
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 9
Grade code: 3.1.2.LI.2
Strand code: 1
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 3.1.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 3.1.2.LI.2
Theme: Physical Activity and Health
Subtheme: Sports Participation
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This lesson introduces the fundamental skills of Pickleball, a fun and engaging racket sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. In Ghana, where we value community and healthy living, learning a new sport like Pickleball provides a fantastic opportunity for physical fitness, social interaction, and recreation. It is a sport that can be easily set up on a small court, making it accessible for our school compounds and communities. By mastering the basic forehand and backhand strokes, learners will gain the confidence to participate in a new sport, improve their hand-eye coordination, and enjoy the lifelong benefits of physical activity.
A. Introduction to Pickleball
Pickleball is a paddle sport played with a perforated plastic ball on a court similar to a badminton court. The net is low, like in tennis. The game can be played as singles (one player against another) or doubles (two against two). The goal is to hit the ball over the net so that the opponent cannot return it. Today, we will focus on the two most important shots: the forehand and the backhand. B. The Forehand Stroke
The forehand stroke is typically the most powerful and natural stroke for a player. It is hit on the same side of the body as the hand holding the paddle (i.e., a right-handed player hits a forehand on their right side).
Step-by-Step Breakdown: Grip (The Handshake): Hold the paddle as if you are shaking hands with it. Your index finger can be slightly extended for better control. The grip should be firm but not too tight. Imagine holding a small bird – firm enough so it doesn't fly away, but gentle enough not to hurt it. Stance (Ready Position): Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your weight balanced on the balls of your feet. Hold the paddle up in front of your body with your non-paddle hand supporting it. This is your "ready position." The Swing (Low-to-High Motion): Preparation: As the ball approaches your forehand side, pivot your body sideways. Your non-paddle shoulder should point towards the net. Take the paddle back to about waist level. Contact: Step forward with your opposite foot (a right-handed player steps with their left foot). Swing the paddle forward in a smooth, upward motion (low-to-high). Aim to make contact with the ball in front of your body, around knee to waist height. Keep your wrist firm at the point of contact to ensure a solid hit. Follow-Through (The Finish): After hitting the ball, continue your swing in the direction you want the ball to go. The paddle should finish high, pointing towards the sky, often over your opposite shoulder. A good follow-through ensures power and control.