Padel: Map Where Points Are Lost to Pick a Game Plan

While two pairs play, another pair sketches on a court diagram where and how each point is lost. With that data, the observed pair chooses a game plan for the next match and checks whether it helps.

How to play

1. Explaining the sheet: a court diagram with zones (net, transition, back) and three symbols: unforced error, point won by opponents, point won by us (4 min).
2. Observed match 1: 8 minutes of play; each observer marks the zone and type of every point for their assigned pair (9 min).
3. Pair analysis: observers and players read the map, find the zone with the most errors and choose a specific plan, such as "don't move up without a lob first" (5 min).
4. Match 2 with the plan: repeat the observation on a fresh sheet (9 min).
5. Comparison: each pair compares both maps and explains whether their plan worked (8 min).

Rules

• Observers record; they don't coach during the match: comments go in the analysis.
• Discuss the maps respectfully: talk about decisions, not people.
• Observers stay off the court, behind the sideline cones.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: can be lead observer or play with two bounces.
• Low vision: a large-print sheet, or voice notes on a phone transcribed later with the partner.
• Injured students: analyze two pairs and present the conclusions.

Learning goals

• Collect game data systematically.
• Identify where and why points are lost.
• Design and test a data-based game plan.

Equipment for a class of 25

• padel paddles: 30
• padel balls: 20
• cones: 24
• badminton net: 3
• observation sheets: 15
• pencils: 15

Teacher tip

Print the sheet at half-letter size and clip it to a stiff folder so they can write standing up. Common mistake: only tracking your own errors; remind them points the opponents win with a good shot count too.

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