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Lesson 4 - Kicking with Both Feet

Accuracy Skills & Target Practice

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Reception

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Target Games

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45 min

Big Question

Why is it important to be able to kick accurately with both feet?

Learning Objectives

To develop kicking accuracy with both feet
To understand why using both feet improves ball control
To apply kicking skills in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will kick a ball with increasing accuracy using both feet
Students will demonstrate understanding of the benefits of using both feet
Students will show improved control when kicking towards targets

Equipment & Resources Required

Medium-Sized Balls

15-20

Start in centre circle, distribute as needed

Alternative: Balloon balls, sponge balls for safety

Cones

Various formations for different activities

Alternative: Bean bags, hoops as markers

Hoops

For catching and target practice

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles

Balls

Rewards for gauntlet game

Alternative: Small soft toys, foam blocks

Shuttles

Set up midway between teams

Alternative: Plastic bottles, cones

Key Vocabulary

Accuracy

Hitting or reaching exactly where you aim

Standing foot

The foot that stays on the ground when you kick

Kicking foot

The foot that strikes the ball

Target

Something you aim at when kicking

Control

Having power over where the ball goes

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic running and stopping movements
Understanding of following simple instructions
Awareness of personal space

Current Skills

Kicking with preferred foot
Developing non-preferred foot control
Understanding accuracy vs power

Next Steps

Kicking moving balls
Kicking for different purposes (passing, shooting)
Advanced target games

Milestone Indicators

Consistent contact with ball using both feet

Ball travels in intended direction

Can switch between feet as needed

Key Teaching Points

Standing foot placement beside ball is crucial for accuracy
Inside of foot provides better control than toe kicking
Both feet practice develops overall coordination and confidence
Gentle kicks are more accurate than powerful ones
Looking at target while kicking improves aim
Encouragement helps build confidence with weaker foot
Games should emphasise accuracy over power

Common Misconceptions

Harder kicks are always better - teach that accuracy matters more than power
Only one foot needs to be good - explain benefits of both feet development
Toe kicking is easier - demonstrate why inside foot gives better control
Perfect accuracy expected immediately - emphasise gradual improvement
Only successful attempts count - celebrate good technique even if unsuccessful

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Larger equipment, simplified instructions, extra practice time, break skills into smaller steps

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule, quiet zone available, consistent routines, prepare for activity changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of targets, pair with sighted buddy

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and demonstrations, written instruction cards, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Adapt to seated kicking or rolling, use larger balls, reduce distances, provide stability support

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting successful kicks, measuring distances, understanding angles and directions

Science

Forces and motion when kicking balls, understanding friction and surfaces

Geography

Spatial awareness, understanding left and right, directions and positioning

PSHE

Teamwork, perseverance, celebrating others' success, managing disappointment

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand where all students are visible, move around during activities to provide individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for proper foot placement, accuracy development, both feet usage, and safe play

Intervention Points

Step in if techniques are unsafe, play becomes too rough, or students show frustration

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate both feet, exaggerate key teaching points, use students as positive examples when appropriate

Verbal Cues

•'Standing foot beside the ball!'
•'Use the inside of your foot!'
•'Eyes on your target!'
•'Try your other foot now!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or playground area, minimum 15m x 15m for class of 30

Surface Check

Even, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Balls properly inflated and age-appropriate weight
•Cones with rounded edges, no sharp points
•Hoops checked for cracks or damage
•Bean bags securely filled and sealed

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during games
•Balls hitting students in face or body
•Trips and falls during running activities
•Overexertion during physical activity

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing between pairs and teams established
•Emphasis on gentle kicks rather than power
•Controlled games with clear rules
•Regular checks on student fatigue levels

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all students simultaneously
•Move around during activities to monitor closely
•Check understanding of safety rules regularly
•Be ready to intervene if play becomes too rough

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school medical support if needed