Fun Badminton Games for PE
Badminton is one of the most accessible net–wall games to teach in PE lessons. There is plenty of scope for creative activities, which are perfect for helping children develop hand–eye coordination, teamwork, and resilience.
In this blog, we’ll share fun badminton games for PE that you can use in your lessons right away. Whether you’re just starting to explore badminton lesson plans or want fresh ideas, these activities are for you.
1. Balloon Badminton
Equipment: Balloons, rackets (or hands if no rackets available).
How to Play:
- Pupils work in pairs or small teams to keep the balloon in the air for as long as possible.
- Great for introducing striking skills, spatial awareness, and cooperation.
2. Noughts and Crosses
Equipment: Cones, shuttles, racquets
How to Play:
- Children should be in pairs and set up a noughts and crosses grid; you could use cones or hoops.
- When a child gets a shuttlecock into one of the grids, they should place a coloured cone, which represents them in that grid space e.g. one player is blue one is red.
- Progression 1: Standing close to the grid begin by underarm throwing the shuttlecock into the noughts and crosses grid.
- Progression 2: Standing from the same spot, underarm hitting the shuttle
- Progression 3: Stand in a diagonal position to hit to the grid (this is more like an underarm forehand serve)
- Progression 4: From the same diagonal position, but now also over a bench or net
3. Dead Fish
Equipment: Cones, shuttles, racquets
How to Play:
- Divide players into two teams of 3 or 4.
- One team lies down on their side of the court. The players should lie on their backs, eyes open.
- While sitting, the opposing team takes turns hitting the shuttle. Their objective is to hit one of the dead fish on the other side of the net.
- Each team starts with ten points. Points are scored for the following.
One point for every serve that lands in court.
Two points or every serve that lands on a ‘fish’.
Lose one point for every serve that hits the net or goes out.
These badminton games for PE are easily adapted and great for developing the key fundamental movement skills.
For ready–to–use more badminton resources, check out our free resources, perfect for teachers looking to bring this exciting sport into their curriculum.