Bombard (Throwing)

bombard

Children practice throwing in a fast-paced game, working as a team to save the city from the runaway boulder!

bombard set up image
Set up

Set up a line of cones long enough to fit each child along it. This is the throwing line. 2 metres away, place a large ball - an exercise ball works well if available. ~10 metres away, set up a 'finish zone' with a witches hat or agility pole. Place a bucket of tennis balls behind the throwing line, multiple buckets may be needed if playing with a large group.

How to play
Step 1:
  • Children start lined up at throwing zone, facing the large ball
  • On the educator's instruction, each child retrieves a tennis ball and throws it at the large ball, trying to push it towards the finish zone
  • The aim of the game is for the children to work together to throw their balls at the big ball to move the big ball past the finish line
Step 2:
  • If you run out of tennis balls, reload by collecting the tennis balls as fast as you can.
Step 3:
  • Refill the buckets, and play again!
  • You can introduce:
    • Teams: for example, children v educator - "get the ball onto the other team's side!"
    • Time limits: "push the boulder into the river before time is up!"

 

Variations
Make it easier
  • Make distances between the throwing line, large ball, and the finish line shorter
  • Underarm throw if this suits your group
Make it harder
  • Children face off, each team tries to push the ball closer to the other team
  • Try your non-dominant throwing arm!
Activity information
Age: Foundation, Year 1, Year 2, Year 3, Year 4, Year 5, Year 6
Participants: 1 +
Equipment: Cones, Balls, Tennis balls, Exercise ball
Duration: 10 minutes
Skill focus
Explore these skills for teaching tips
Overarm Throw Underarm Throw Fundamental Movement Skills Cricket Skills Tee Ball Skills
Skill teaching

Explain and demonstrate the teaching cues for overarm throwing;

  1. Ready: Stand like a surfer (side-on)
  2. Aim: Make a muscle man (throwing arm bent up above shoulder), point non-throwing arm at target
  3. Fire: Step on the star (step with opposite foot onto star marker) and throw
Activity summary
Physical literacy tips
  • Ensure the children work together as one team if this suits your group