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Lesson 2 - Dodging and Changing Direction

Ball Handling Basics

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Year 1

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Invasion Games

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55 min

Big Question

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

Coloured Bibs

1 per student (30)

Pre-distributed around area perimeter for quick collection

Alternative: Strips of fabric, coloured scarves

Medicine Balls

8-10 balls

Available for collection during main session

Alternative: Bean bags, soft play balls

Cones

4 large cones

Mark North, South, East, West positions

Alternative: Markers, gym mats as boundaries

Key Vocabulary

Dodging

Moving quickly to one side to avoid being caught or tagged

Direction change

Altering the path you are travelling in

Spatial awareness

Understanding where you are in relation to others and objects

Evasion

Using movement to avoid being caught

Balance

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

Changes direction without losing balance

Uses both feet for dodging movements

Maintains awareness of others when moving

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