Badminton Clear Peer Coaching Checklist
In groups of three, one student hits clears, another feeds high serves, and the third observes with a four-point technique checklist and gives one correction. Students work on clear technique and on peer observation and feedback.
How to play
- Explain the four checklist points: body sideways, non-racket arm pointing at the shuttle, contact high and in front, and weight moving from back leg to front leg (3 min).
- Form groups of three with the roles of hitter, feeder, and observer; the observer gets the checklist and a pencil.
- The feeder serves high and deep to the hitter, who returns with a clear; play sets of 8 shots.
- The observer marks each point as done or not and, after the set, gives one specific compliment and only one correction.
- The hitter does another set of 8 trying to apply the correction; then rotate roles until everyone has done all three (14 min).
- Wrap-up: each student marks on their checklist which point improved between the first and second set (3 min).
Rules
- The observer only speaks after each set, never during the shots.
- Corrections are phrased positively: 'try hitting further in front' instead of 'you are doing it wrong'.
- The feeder always serves from the same spot.
- Safety: the observer stands to the side, off the court, never behind the hitter.
Variations
Easier
Cut the checklist to two points and have the feeder toss the shuttle by hand.
Standard
Four-point checklist, sets of 8, and one correction per set.
Harder
The observer also counts how many clears go past the doubles long service line.
Adaptations
- For students with limited mobility, the hitter plays without moving and the feeder adjusts the serve to their position.
- For students with reading difficulties, the checklist includes a picture of each technique point.
- Shy students may write their correction on the checklist instead of saying it.
Learning goals
- Perform the clear using the key technique points.
- Observe a classmate's technique with a checklist.
- Give and receive feedback respectfully.
Equipment for a class of 25
- rackets: 25
- shuttlecocks: 30
- observation checklists: 25
- pencils: 9
Teacher tip
Circulate and listen to how students give corrections, because that is where the most learning happens. A common mistake is the observer trying to fix everything: remind them only one thing per set.
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