Grade 6 Physical And Health Education Softball – Figure 8 Pitching Notes
Physical & Health Education — Softball
Subtopic: Figure 8 Pitching (Age: 11)
Figure 8 pitching is a safe, simple way to learn smooth underarm pitching. The arm moves in a path like the number 8. This helps you control speed, accuracy and rhythm when throwing the ball. These notes are written for Kenyan school PE lessons — you can practise on the school field with a soft ball or a tennis ball.
Learning objectives
- Understand and show the basic Figure 8 arm motion for underarm pitching.
- Can throw with better control and consistent release point.
- Use safe footwork and keep balance when pitching.
Equipment & safety
- Softball or tennis ball (for beginners use a softer ball).
- Closed sports shoes, comfortable clothes. No sandals.
- Clear playing area: no stones, holes or other players nearby.
- Always warm up for 8–10 minutes (jog, arm circles, stretches).
- Practice with a teacher or coach watching for safety and guidance.
Simple visual: figure-8 arm path
Arm moves smoothly in a path like 8 — across body, under, then out
Step-by-step: Figure 8 pitching (simple)
- Grip: Hold the ball gently with your fingers across the seams (or surface). Not too tight.
- Stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, non-throwing foot slightly forward, knees slightly bent.
- Start position: Ball in your glove or hand near waist height, eyes on target (fielder or coach).
- Figure 8 motion: Take the throwing arm across your body, down below the waist and then forward in a smooth loop — the path should look like the number 8. Keep movements slow and controlled at first.
- Step and release: Step forward with the foot opposite your throwing arm as you finish the lower loop and swing your arm forward. Release the ball just in front of your hip for an underarm pitch.
- Follow through: Let your arm continue the motion after release, and return to balance on both feet.
Practice drills (10–15 minutes each)
- Air figure 8s: No ball. Stand and trace the figure-8 with your throwing arm slowly 10 times to learn the motion.
- Behind-the-back figure 8: Hold the ball behind your back and move it in the figure-8 slowly to feel the path and wrist action.
- Short target throws: Pair up 6 metres apart. Throw underarm using figure-8 motion aiming at partner's glove. Count how many good throws in 30 seconds.
- Walk-and-throw: Take a step, perform the figure-8, and throw to a target 10–15 metres away. Repeat 8–10 times each side (if you try both arms).
- Accuracy game: Set 3 targets (cones or shoes). Try to hit each target three times using figure-8 throws. Make it a friendly class competition.
Common mistakes & corrections
- Too fast too soon: Slow down and focus on shape of the 8. Speed comes later.
- Releasing too early or too late: Practice release in front of the hip; use coach feedback.
- Poor balance: Keep eyes on target and land softly on front foot; bend knees slightly.
- Throwing from the shoulder: Remember the arm travels under and forward — do not throw overarm for this pitch.
Assessment (simple for class)
Use this quick checklist during lessons:
- Can do 10 slow figure-8 arm motions with good shape — Yes / Developing / No
- Can throw the ball to a target 8–12 metres with a clear release point — Yes / Developing / No
- Demonstrates safe footwork and balance — Yes / Developing / No
Teacher/Coach tips
- Use positive feedback — praise small improvements.
- Start with soft balls for beginners and move to official softball only when control is good.
- Record a short video of a pupil’s motion so they can see and correct their shape.
- Link pitching practice to fielding: accurate pitching allows better practice for batters and fielders.
Remember:
Practice regularly, keep movements smooth, and always put safety first. Happy practising on the school field — start slow and enjoy learning the figure-8!