This unit introduces Reception students to the fundamental concepts of attack and defence through playful, imaginative games centred around sharks and fishes. The focus extends beyond physical skills to encompass crucial social learning about fairness, turn-taking, and following rules in group activities. Through carefully scaffolded experiences, students develop both tactical awareness and essential life skills that form the foundation for all future competitive activities.

Lessons in This Unit

6 lessons in this unit

Lesson 1

Taking Turns in Games
30 min

Big Question:

Why is taking turns important when we play games together?

Key Objectives:

  • To understand the importance of taking turns in games
  • To develop spatial awareness while moving around others

Lesson 2

Keeping the Score in Games
45 min

Big Question:

How can we keep track of points to make our games fair and fun?

Key Objectives:

  • To understand why we need to keep score during games
  • To develop counting skills through active play

Lesson 3

Understanding Rules and Fair Play
45 min

Big Question:

Why do we need rules to make games fair and fun for everyone?

Key Objectives:

  • Understand why games have rules and the importance of following them
  • Experience the consequences of breaking game rules

Lesson 4

Avoiding a Defender
30 min

Big Question:

How can we move like clever fish to escape the sharks?

Key Objectives:

  • Explore different ways of avoiding a defender (shark)
  • Understand simple evasive skills and movement principles

Lesson 5

Tagging to Prevent Scoring
45 min

Big Question:

How can defenders work together like sharks to stop attackers from escaping?

Key Objectives:

  • Explore different ways of preventing an attacker from scoring a point through tagging
  • Understand simple defensive principles and teamwork in games

Lesson 6

Sharks and Fishes Game
45 min

Big Question:

How can we work together as a team to attack and defend in games?

Key Objectives:

  • Apply understanding of attacking (fish) and defending (sharks) in competitive games
  • Demonstrate teamwork and cooperation when attacking and defending