Bonus-Point Team Handball
Modified games where each goal is worth a different amount depending on how it is scored: jump shots, fast breaks, and pivot passes beat a regular goal. Students practice a variety of shots and decide which attack gives the most valuable goal.
How to play
- Two cross-court fields about 20 x 15 yards with small goals and a 5-yard goal area marked with cones. Four teams of six (five court players and a goalie) and one rotating scorekeeper.
- Scoring: set shot 1 point; jump shot 2; fast-break goal before the whole defense is back 2; goal after a pass from the pivot or from the wing 2.
- The scoring team calls out the type of goal; the scorekeeper confirms it and writes it down.
- Games last 5 minutes. After each game, switch opponents and change goalies within each team.
- Play four games and finish with a 2-minute debrief: which type of goal earned the most points, and why?
Rules
- Usual school rules on steps, double dribble, and the goal area; free throws are taken from where the foul happened.
- When in doubt about the type of goal, it counts 1 point: play fair.
- Safety: never charge into a shooter in the air.
Variations
Easier
Only two types of goal: regular is 1 point, jump shot or fast break is 2.
Standard
Four goal types with different points and a scorekeeper to confirm.
Harder
A team must score at least one goal of each type in order to win the game.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student acts as scorekeeper and referee or plays in a protected sideline zone.
- Hearing impairment: the scorekeeper holds up fingers to show each goal's points.
- Fitness level: the teacher balances teams, and subs are free on every restart.
Learning goals
- Use different types of shots in a game.
- Decide which attacking situation offers the biggest advantage.
- Accept the scorekeeper's calls with good sportsmanship.
Equipment for a class of 25
- team handballs: 3
- pinnies: 12
- small goals: 4
- cones: 24
Teacher tip
Some students force a jump shot with no space; remind them a 1-point goal beats a missed 2-pointer. Move between both fields to keep play clean.
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