Table Tennis Game Basic 5 Physical & Health Education Lesson Note

Key Words

1. Tennis
2. History
3. Skills
4. Forehand
5. Backhand
6. Serve
7. Volley
8. Groundstroke
9. Footwork
10. Grip

Behavioural Objectives

• By the end of the lesson, students should be able to explain the brief history of tennis
• Students should be able to demonstrate and practice basic skills in tennis, including forehand, backhand, and serving

Embedded Core Skills

• Coordination
• Motor skills development
• Communication
• Following instructions

Learning Materials

• Tennis rackets
• Tennis balls
• Cones or markers
• Reference Books: Lagos State Scheme of Work and Physical and Health Education Book 3

Content

• Introduction to the brief history of tennis
• Explanation and demonstration of basic tennis skills
• Practice sessions for students to try out each skill
• Emphasis on proper technique and safety in tennis

Brief History of Tennis

1. Origin

Tennis originated in France in the 12th century.

2. Real Tennis

A form of tennis called “real tennis” and was played indoors by royalty and nobility.

3. Lawn Tennis

In the 19th century, lawn tennis was developed, which is the form of tennis played today.

4. Major Tournaments

The first Wimbledon tennis tournament was held in 1877 in London.

5. Olympic Sport

Tennis became an Olympic sport in 1896.

6. Professional Tennis

In the 20th century, tennis became a professional sport with tournaments around the world.

7. Famous Players

Players like Serena Williams and Roger Federer have become legends in the sport.

Understanding the history helps us appreciate the game of tennis even more!

Historical Timeline

12th Century – Origins

• France: Tennis originated as a handball game called “jeu de paume” (game of the palm)
• Indoor Play: Early versions were played in monastery courtyards and later in indoor courts
• Royal Sport: Became popular among French royalty and nobility

16th-17th Century – Evolution

• Real Tennis: Developed into “real tennis” or “royal tennis”
• Court Tennis: Played on enclosed courts with complex rules
• European Spread: The game spread to England and other European countries

19th Century – Modern Development

• 1870s: Major Walter Clopton Wingfield patented a version of lawn tennis
• Outdoor Tennis: Game adapted for outdoor grass courts
• Equipment: Introduction of rubber balls and modern rackets
• Rules Standardization: Basic rules and court dimensions established

Major Milestones

• 1877: First Wimbledon Championship held at the All England Club
• 1881: First U.S. National Championships (now US Open)
• 1891: First French Championships (now French Open)
• 1905: First Australian Championships (now Australian Open)

20th Century – Professional Era

• 1896: Tennis included in first modern Olympics
• 1968: Beginning of the “Open Era” – professionals allowed in major tournaments
• 1973: Formation of the ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals)
• 1973: Formation of the WTA (Women’s Tennis Association)

Famous Tennis Legends

• Early Legends: Bill Tilden, Suzanne Lenglen, Don Budge
• Modern Era: Rod Laver, Billie Jean King, John McEnroe, Chris Evert
• Recent Champions: Serena Williams, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic

Classwork – Fill in the blanks

1. Tennis originated in _______ in the 12th century. a) France b) England c) Italy d) Spain
2. The original form of tennis was called “_______”. a) real tennis b) fake tennis c) court tennis d) indoor tennis
3. Lawn tennis was developed in the _______ century. a) 17th b) 18th c) 19th d) 20th
4. The first Wimbledon tennis tournament was held in _______. a) Paris b) London c) New York d) Sydney
5. Tennis became an Olympic sport in _______. a) 1800 b) 1867 c) 1896 d) 1923
6. In the 20th century, tennis became a _______ sport. a) fun b) professional c) indoor d) virtual
7. Players like _______ have become legends in tennis. a) LeBron James b) Serena Williams c) Tom Brady d) Lionel Messi
8. The original form of tennis was played _______. a) indoors b) outdoors c) in the ocean d) on the moon
9. Wimbledon is a famous tennis tournament held in _______. a) France b) England c) Italy d) Australia
10. Tennis was first played as a professional sport in the _______ century. a) 18th b) 19th c) 20th d) 21st

Basic Tennis Skills and Techniques

Essential Tennis Strokes

1. Forehand

• Grip: Eastern or semi-western grip
• Stance: Sideways to the net
• Swing: Low to high motion
• Follow Through: Across the body

2. Backhand

• One-handed: Classic technique with eastern backhand grip
• Two-handed: More power and control for beginners
• Preparation: Early racket preparation is key

3. Serve

• Grip: Continental grip
• Toss: Consistent ball toss in front and slightly right
• Motion: Fluid upward and forward motion
• Follow Through: Across the body after contact

4. Volley

• Position: Close to the net
• Technique: Short, punching motion
• Footwork: Quick steps and good balance

5. Groundstrokes

• Consistency: Focus on getting the ball over the net and in court
• Footwork: Move to the ball early
• Balance: Stay balanced throughout the stroke

Practice Activities

Beginner Drills

1. Wall Practice: Hit balls against a wall to develop consistency
2. Drop and Hit: Drop ball and hit after one bounce
3. Toss and Catch: Practice ball toss for serving
4. Grip Practice: Learn proper grip positions

Intermediate Drills

1. Cross-court Rallies: Hit diagonally across the court
2. Approach Shots: Move forward and hit while moving
3. Serve Practice: Practice serving to different areas
4. Net Play: Practice volleys and overheads

Safety in Tennis

Important Safety Tips

• Proper Warm-up: Always warm up before playing
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially on hot days
• Sun Protection: Use sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing
• Court Awareness: Be aware of other players and court boundaries
• Equipment Check: Ensure rackets and balls are in good condition

Injury Prevention

• Proper Technique: Learn correct form to avoid injury
• Gradual Progression: Don’t try advanced techniques too quickly
• Rest: Take breaks when tired
• Listen to Your Body: Stop if you feel pain or discomfort

Benefits of Playing Tennis

Physical Benefits

• Cardiovascular Fitness: Great aerobic exercise
• Hand-Eye Coordination: Improves reaction time and coordination
• Flexibility: Develops flexibility and range of motion
• Strength: Builds muscle strength, especially in arms and legs

Mental Benefits

• Concentration: Requires focus and mental discipline
• Strategy: Develops tactical thinking and problem-solving
• Confidence: Builds self-confidence through skill development
• Stress Relief: Physical activity helps reduce stress

Social Benefits

• Friendship: Meet new people and make friends
• Sportsmanship: Learn fair play and respect for opponents
• Communication: Develop communication skills
• Teamwork: In doubles play, learn to work with a partner

Summary

Tennis has evolved from a 12th-century French handball game into one of the world’s most popular sports. From its origins in monastery courtyards to the grand stages of Wimbledon and the Olympics, tennis has captured the hearts of millions. Understanding this rich history helps us appreciate not just the sport itself, but also the dedication and skill required to excel at it. Whether playing for fun or competition, tennis offers numerous physical, mental, and social benefits that make it an excellent sport for people of all ages.