Table Tennis Game: Meaning and Brief History of Table Tennis in Nigeria, Basic Skills, Facilities and Equipment Used in Table Tennis, Advantages and Safety Measures of Playing Table Tennis Primary 5 (Basic 5) Second Term Week 3 Physical and Health Education

TABLE TENNIS GAME: MEANING AND BRIEF HISTORY OF TABLE TENNIS IN NIGERIA, BASIC SKILLS, FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT USED IN TABLE TENNIS, ADVANTAGES AND SAFETY MEASURES OF PLAYING TABLE TENNIS 

PHYSICAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION (PHE)

PRIMARY 5 – SECOND TERM – WEEK 3

THEME – GAMES AND SPORTS (TABLE TENNIS GAME) 

PREVIOUS LESSON – Hockey Game: Meaning and Brief History of Hockey in Nigeria, Basic Skills, Facilities and Equipment Used in Hockey, Advantages and Safety Measures of Playing Hockey Primary 5 (Basic 5) Second Term Week 2 Physical and Health Education

TOPIC – TABLE TENNIS GAME 

LEARNING AREA

1. Introduction

2. Meaning and Brief History of Table Tennis in Nigeria

3. Basic Skills, Facilities and Equipment Used in Table Tennis

4. Advantages and Safety Measures of Playing Table Tennis

5. Weekly Assessment; Test Questions and Answers/Assignment

6. Summary

LEARNING OBJECTIVES 

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. Explain the meaning of table tennis.

2. Give a brief history of table tennis in Nigeria.

3. Identify the basic skills used in table tennis.

4. Mention the facilities and equipment used in table tennis.

5. State the advantages of playing table tennis.

6. Mention the safety measures to observe while playing table tennis.

ENTRY BEHAVIOUR

Pupils have previously learned about football, basketball, volleyball, and hockey, which are sports that improve coordination, teamwork, agility, discipline, and physical fitness.

This lesson builds on that knowledge by introducing table tennis, an indoor racket game that requires quick reflexes, hand-eye coordination, concentration, balance, accuracy, and speed. Pupils will also learn the basic skills, facilities, equipment, advantages, and safety measures involved in playing table tennis.

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

The teacher will teach the lesson with the aid of:

1. Table tennis bat (racket)

2. Table tennis ball

3. Table tennis table

4. Net

5. Pictures of table tennis players

6. Whistle

7. Whiteboard and marker

METHOD OF TEACHING

Choose a suitable and appropriate methods for the lessons.

Note – Irrespective of choosing methods of teaching, always introduce an activities that will arouse pupil’s interest or lead them to the lessons. 

REFERENCE MATERIALS

1. Scheme of Work

2. 9 – Years Basic Education Curriculum

3. Course Book

4. All Relevant Material

5. Online Information

CONTENT OF THE LESSON

INTRODUCTION

Table tennis is one of the most popular indoor sports in the world. It is played on a special table using bats (rackets) and a lightweight ball. The game can be played by two players (singles) or four players (doubles).

In this lesson, pupils will learn the meaning of table tennis, the brief history of table tennis in Nigeria, the basic skills, the facilities and equipment used, the advantages of playing table tennis, and the safety measures to observe while playing the game.

LESSON 1 – MEANING OF TABLE TENNIS

Table tennis is an indoor racket game played by two players (singles) or four players (doubles) on a table divided by a net. Players use bats (rackets) to hit a lightweight ball across the net, aiming to score points by making the opponent miss or return the ball incorrectly.

BRIEF HISTORY OF TABLE TENNIS IN NIGERIA

Table tennis was introduced into Nigeria in the 1940s by British colonial administrators, missionaries, and expatriates. The game became popular in schools, clubs, and recreational centres across the country.

To promote and organise the sport, the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation was established in 1960. Since then, the federation has organised national competitions and produced many outstanding players who have represented Nigeria in African and international championships.

Today, table tennis is one of the most successful sports in Nigeria and is widely played in schools, clubs, and sports competitions.

BASIC SKILLS IN TABLE TENNIS

1. Holding the Bat (Grip) – Holding the bat (grip) is the correct way of holding the table tennis bat to control the ball and play effectively.

2. Serving – Serving is the skill of starting the game by hitting the ball over the net into the opponent’s side of the table according to the rules.

3. Forehand Stroke – A forehand stroke is hitting the ball with the front side of the bat using the stronger side of the body.

4. Backhand Stroke – A backhand stroke is hitting the ball with the back side of the bat across the front of the body.

5. Footwork – Footwork is the movement of the feet to maintain good balance and quickly reach the ball during play.

6. Ball Control – Ball control is the ability to keep the ball under control while hitting and returning it accurately.

7. Blocking – Blocking is the skill of stopping or returning a fast shot from an opponent with little force.

8. Smashing – Smashing is a powerful downward stroke used to hit the ball forcefully into the opponent’s side to win a point.

LESSON 2 – FACILITIES USED IN TABLE TENNIS GAME

Facilities are the places or structures where Table Tennis is played.

1. Table Tennis Playing Hall or Court – A table tennis playing hall or court is the indoor area where table tennis matches are played.

2. Table Tennis Table – A table tennis table is a flat rectangular table with a marked surface on which the game is played.

3. Spectator Stands – Spectator stands are seating areas where supporters and other spectators watch table tennis matches.

4. Players’ Waiting Area – The players’ waiting area is the place where players sit and rest before or after their matches.

5. Scoreboard – A scoreboard is a board or electronic display used to show the score and progress of the match.

6. Changing Rooms – Changing rooms are rooms where players change into their sports clothing before the match and change back afterwards.

7. Good Lighting System – A good lighting system provides enough light to enable players and officials to see the ball clearly during the game.

EQUIPMENT USED IN TABLE TENNIS

Equipment are the items needed to play Table Tennis.

1. Table Tennis Bat (Racket) – A table tennis bat (racket) is the equipment used by players to hit the ball during the game.

2. Table Tennis Ball – A table tennis ball is a small, lightweight ball used for playing table tennis.

3. Table Tennis Net – A table tennis net is a mesh stretched across the middle of the table, dividing it into two equal halves.

4. Table Tennis Table – A table tennis table is the specially designed table on which the game is played.

5. Sports Jersey – A sports jersey is the shirt worn by players to identify their team or themselves during the game.

6. Shorts or Sports Skirt – Shorts or sports skirts are comfortable sportswear worn by players to allow easy movement while playing.

7. Sports Shoes – Sports shoes are specially designed shoes that provide comfort, balance, and good grip during the game.

8. Score Sheet – A score sheet is a document used to record the scores and other important details of the match.

9. Stopwatch – A stopwatch is a timing device used by officials to measure the duration of matches or practice sessions.

10. Whistle – A whistle is a small instrument used by the referee or umpire to start, stop, and control the game.

LESSON 3 – ADVANTAGES OF PLAYING TABLE TENNIS

1. It improves hand-eye coordination.

2. It increases speed and quick reflexes.

3. It improves concentration.

4. It promotes physical fitness.

5. It develops balance and agility.

6. It encourages teamwork and sportsmanship.

7. It builds self-confidence.

8. It provides recreation and relaxation.

SAFETY MEASURES WHILE PLAYING TABLE TENNIS

1. Warm up before playing.

2. Wear appropriate sports clothing and shoes.

3. Use standard table tennis equipment.

4. Keep the playing area clean and dry.

5. Follow the rules of the game.

6. Avoid swinging the bat carelessly.

7. Drink enough water during breaks.

8. Report any injury immediately to the teacher or coach.

LESSON 4 (FREE PERIOD) – PRACTICAL DEMONSTRATION TABLE TENNIS

The teacher demonstrates the basic skills of table tennis while pupils observe and practise under supervision.

1. Holding the Bat (Grip)

• Hold the bat comfortably with the thumb and fingers.

• Ensure the grip is firm but not too tight.

• Practise holding the bat correctly before hitting the ball.

2. Ready Position

• Stand with the feet slightly apart.

• Bend the knees slightly.

• Hold the bat in front of the body.

• Keep the eyes focused on the ball.

3. Serving the Ball

• Place the ball on the open palm.

• Toss the ball slightly upward.

• Strike the ball with the bat so that it bounces on your side of the table, crosses the net, and lands on your opponent’s side.

4. Forehand Stroke

• Swing the bat forward from the stronger side of the body.

• Hit the ball smoothly with the front side of the bat.

• Follow through after striking the ball.

5. Backhand Stroke

• Hold the bat across the front of the body.

• Strike the ball using the back side of the bat.

• Return quickly to the ready position.

6. Ball Control

• Bounce the ball gently on the bat several times.

• Keep the ball under control without letting it fall.

7. Footwork

• Move quickly from side to side.

• Keep balanced while following the movement of the ball.

• Return to the ready position after every stroke.

8. Mini Rally Practice

• Pupils work in pairs.

• One pupil serves while the other returns the ball.

• They continue exchanging the ball gently over the net for as many successful returns as possible.

WEEKLY ASSESSMENT: TEST QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS/ASSIGNMENT 

A. Multiple Choice Questions

1. Table tennis is played with a ______.

A. football

B. hockey stick

C. volleyball

D. bat (racket) and ball

2. Table tennis was introduced into Nigeria in the ______.

A. 1940s

B. 1960s

C. 1980s

D. 1990s

3. The Nigeria Table Tennis Federation was established in ______.

A. 1950

B. 1960

C. 1972

D. 1985

4. Which of the following is a basic skill in table tennis?

A. Tackling

B. Heading

C. Bowling

D. Serving

5. Which equipment divides the table into two equal halves?

A. Bat

B. Ball

C. Net

D. Score sheet

B. Fill in the Blanks

6. Table tennis is played on a table tennis ______.

7. Players use a ______ to hit the ball.

8. The ______ is used by the referee or umpire to control the game.

9. A ______ records the scores during the match.

10. Table tennis improves hand-eye ______.

C. True or False

11. Table tennis is an outdoor game. ______

12. A forehand stroke is a basic skill in table tennis. ______

13. Sports shoes help players move safely during the game. ______

14. A table tennis ball is made of iron. ______

15. Warming up before playing table tennis helps prevent injuries. ______

D. Match Column A with Column B

Column A – Column B

16. Table tennis table, A. Protects the feet during play

17. Table tennis bat, B. Records scores and match details

18. Sports shoes, C. Hits the ball

19. Whistle, D. Used by the referee or umpire

20. Score sheet, E. Playing surface

ANSWER KEYS

1. D – Bat (Racket) and Ball

2. A – 1940s

3. B – 1960

4. D – Serving

5. C – Net

6. Table

7. Bat (Racket)

8. Whistle

9. Score sheet

10. Coordination

11. False

12. True

13. True

14. False

15. True

16. Table tennis table, E. Playing surface

17. Table tennis bat, C. Hits the ball

18. Sports shoes, A. Protects the feet during play

19. Whistle, D. Used by the referee or umpire

20. Score sheet, B. Records scores and match details

SUMMARY

In this lesson, pupils learned that table tennis is an indoor racket game played by two players (singles) or four players (doubles) on a table divided by a net. The aim of the game is to score points by hitting the ball over the net in such a way that the opponent cannot return it correctly.

They also learned that table tennis was introduced into Nigeria in the 1940s by British colonial administrators, missionaries, and expatriates. The Nigeria Table Tennis Federation was established in 1960 to organise and develop the game in Nigeria.

Pupils identified the basic skills in table tennis, including holding the bat (grip), serving, forehand stroke, backhand stroke, footwork, ball control, blocking, and smashing.

They also identified the facilities used in table tennis, such as the table tennis playing hall or court, table tennis table, spectator stands, players’ waiting area, scoreboard, changing rooms, and a good lighting system.

Furthermore, pupils learned the equipment used in table tennis, including the table tennis bat (racket), table tennis ball, table tennis net, table tennis table, sports jersey, shorts or sports skirt, sports shoes, score sheet, stopwatch, and whistle.

Finally, pupils learned the advantages of playing table tennis, such as improving hand-eye coordination, concentration, speed, balance, agility, physical fitness, self-confidence, and sportsmanship. They also learned the safety measures to observe while playing table tennis, including warming up before playing, wearing suitable sports clothing and shoes, using standard equipment, keeping the playing area safe, following the rules of the game, avoiding careless swinging of the bat, and reporting injuries immediately.

PRESENTATION

To deliver the lesson, the teacher adopts the following steps:

Step 1: Introduction – The teacher displays a table tennis bat (racket), table tennis ball, table tennis table, or pictures/videos of a table tennis match and asks pupils if they have ever seen or played the game.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils observe the materials and share their experiences about table tennis.

Step 2: Meaning of Table Tennis – The teacher explains the meaning of table tennis, the objective of the game, and the number of players involved in singles and doubles matches.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils explain the meaning of table tennis in their own words.

Step 3: Brief History of Table Tennis in Nigeria – The teacher explains that table tennis was introduced into Nigeria in the 1940s and that the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation was established in 1960 to organise and develop the game.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils state when table tennis was introduced into Nigeria and the year the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation was established.

Step 4: Basic Skills in Table Tennis – The teacher demonstrates the basic skills of table tennis, including holding the bat (grip), serving, forehand stroke, backhand stroke, footwork, ball control, blocking, and smashing.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils observe and practise the basic skills under the teacher’s supervision.

Step 5: Facilities and Equipment Used in Table Tennis – The teacher displays or points to the facilities and equipment used in table tennis and explains the function of each one.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils identify the facilities and equipment and explain their uses.

Step 6: Advantages and Safety Measures – The teacher discusses the benefits of playing table tennis and explains the safety rules to observe before, during, and after the game.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils mention the advantages of table tennis and list the safety measures.

Step 7: Group Activity – The teacher divides the class into four groups and assigns the following tasks:

• Group 1: List the basic skills in table tennis.

• Group 2: List the facilities used in table tennis.

• Group 3: List the equipment used in table tennis.

• Group 4: State the advantages and safety measures of playing table tennis.

Each group presents its work to the class.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils discuss in groups, write their answers, and present them to the class.

Step 8: Lesson Summary – The teacher reviews the meaning, brief history, basic skills, facilities, equipment, advantages, and safety measures of playing table tennis.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils answer oral questions and summarise the lesson.

Step 9: Evaluation – The teacher asks oral and written questions and observes pupils demonstrating simple table tennis skills such as holding the bat correctly, serving, and returning the ball safely.

Pupils’ Activities: Pupils answer the evaluation questions and participate actively in the practical demonstration.

CONCLUSION

To conclude the lesson for the week, the teacher revises the entire lesson and links it to the following week’s lesson.

NEXT LESSON

Maintenance: Meaning of Sports Facilities and Equipment, Reasons for Maintaining Sports Facilities and Equipment Primary 5 (Basic 5) Second Term Week 4 Physical and Health Education

LESSON EVALUATION 

Teacher asks pupils,

1. What is table tennis?

2. State the period table tennis was introduced into Nigeria.

3. In what year was the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation established?

4. Mention five basic skills used in table tennis.

5. Mention five facilities used in table tennis.

6. Mention five equipment used in table tennis.

7. State five advantages of playing table tennis.

8. Mention five safety measures to observe while playing table tennis.

9. Explain the functions of the following:

(a) Table tennis bat (racket)

(b) Table tennis net

(c) Score sheet

10. Demonstrate the correct way of holding the bat (grip), serving, or playing a forehand stroke while observing the safety rules.