Lesson 2 - Dodging and Changing Direction
Ball Handling Basics
•Year 1
•Invasion Games
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How can I use clever dodges and direction changes to keep myself safe and free during games?
Learning Objectives
- To develop confident and competent direction changes
- To move safely in limited spaces whilst aware of others
- To understand when and why to use dodging movements
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate controlled changes of direction
- Students will show spatial awareness when moving around others
- Students will explain what makes an effective dodge
Equipment & Resources Required
Pre-distributed around area perimeter for quick collection
Alternative: Strips of fabric, coloured scarves
Available for collection during main session
Alternative: Bean bags, soft play balls
Mark North, South, East, West positions
Alternative: Markers, gym mats as boundaries
Key Vocabulary
Moving quickly to one side to avoid being caught or tagged
Altering the path you are travelling in
Understanding where you are in relation to others and objects
Using movement to avoid being caught
Staying in control of your body whilst moving
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running and stopping
- Simple direction changes
- Understanding of personal space
Current Skills
- Confident direction changes
- Dodging off both feet
- Safe movement in crowds
Next Steps
- Combining dodges with other skills
- Using dodges in team games
- Advanced evasion techniques
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Emphasise deception in approach before changing direction
- Encourage use of both feet for dodging movements
- Maintain control and balance throughout direction changes
- Develop spatial awareness when moving around others
- Apply dodging skills under game pressure situations
- Link dodging technique to game success and safety
- Build confidence through progressive skill development
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking speed alone makes effective dodging - technique and deception are crucial
- Believing only one foot can be used for dodging - both feet provide options
- Assuming dodging is just for avoidance - it's also about creating opportunities
- Focusing only on individual success - team support enhances everyone's performance
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries marked, regular positive feedback and movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Slower introduction of skills, larger equipment for easier handling, extra practice time provided
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule displayed, quiet zones available if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured bibs, verbal cues for direction, buddy system for spatial guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations emphasised, hand signals for game rules, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Seated dodging versions, modified equipment, reduced movement distance requirements
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting dodges successfully completed, timing activities, understanding angles of movement and direction
Science
Understanding forces and motion during direction changes, balance and centre of gravity
Geography
Directional language - North, South, East, West, spatial navigation concepts
PSHE
Managing emotions during competitive activities, cooperation with partners, fair play and sportsmanship
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter for full area visibility, central position during demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for quality of direction changes, spatial awareness, safety of movement
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe movement patterns develop or if students need technique support
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Exaggerated shoulder drops for visibility, clear weight transfer, controlled movement
Verbal Cues
- •'Sharp direction change!'
- •'Use both feet!'
- •'Sell the fake!'
- •'Stay in control!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 20m clear space, preferably hall or playground
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, adequate grip for direction changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check bibs/bands have no sharp edges or loose parts
- •Ensure balls are appropriate weight and size for gentle tagging
- •Cones placed safely with rounded edges
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during direction changes
- •Slips during quick movement
- •Contact during tagging activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established and understood
- •Adequate spacing maintained between students
- •Progressive speed building from walking to running
- •Gentle contact rules enforced throughout
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all students
- •Monitor centre convergence area closely
- •Watch for fatigue affecting movement quality
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess any incidents, apply first aid as needed, incident reporting