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Big Question

How can we use accurate passing and receiving to keep possession and score points as a team?

Learning Objectives

  • To develop accurate passing and receiving skills using hands
  • To understand when and where to pass to maintain possession
  • To apply passing skills in game situations to score points

Key Outcomes

  • Students will pass the ball accurately to a partner using correct hand technique
  • Students will receive the ball with control and body positioning
  • Students will make tactical decisions about when and where to pass in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls
1 per group of 5 students

Size 4 balls ideal for Year 2 hands, inflated to medium pressure

Alternative: Bean bags, foam balls for students needing softer equipment

Markers
5 per group (25-30 total)

Spread around playing area to mark standing positions

Alternative: Hoops, small cones, poly spots

Cones
12-16 cones

Create 3-4 scoring zones in different areas of space

Alternative: Hoops, rope to mark areas

Coloured Bibs
5-10 bibs

For identifying defenders in advanced activities

Alternative: Coloured bands, team markers

Key Vocabulary

Chest Pass

A pass where the ball is pushed from chest level using both hands

Target

Making your hands ready to receive a pass by creating a clear aim point

Possession

Keeping control of the ball within your team

Space

An empty area on the playing field where players can move

Accuracy

Passing the ball exactly where you intended

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic ball handling and catching skills
  • Understanding of personal space and moving safely
  • Basic knowledge of passing a ball forwards

Current Skills

  • Accurate passing using chest pass technique
  • Receiving with body as target
  • Moving to space after passing
  • Looking before passing to assess options

Next Steps

  • Passing under defensive pressure
  • Different types of passes (bounce, overhead)
  • Advanced game tactics and teamwork

Milestone Indicators

1
Consistent accuracy in passing over 3 metres
2
Quick decision-making about where to pass
3
Effective communication during games

Key Teaching Points

  • Chest pass technique: step, push, thumbs down
  • Look before passing to assess options and avoid defenders
  • Communication before passing - call teammate's name
  • Move to space immediately after passing
  • Create targets with hands when receiving
  • Tactical awareness of when and where to pass to score
  • Teamwork and positive encouragement throughout

Common Misconceptions

  • Throwing the ball hard makes it more accurate - teach controlled pushing motion
  • You must always pass to the nearest person - explain tactical passing for scoring
  • Moving after passing is optional - emphasise it's essential for creating space
  • Defenders are bad - explain they make the game more challenging and fun
  • Dropping the ball means you're not good - normalize learning process and improvement

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, specific roles in team games
dyspraxia
  • Larger equipment, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, step-by-step technique breakdown
autism spectrum
  • Clear visual schedule, consistent routines, quiet zones available, predictable game structures
visual impairment
  • Use brightly coloured balls and markers, verbal cues for all instructions, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
  • Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for game instructions, written instruction cards
physical disability
  • Seated passing variations, larger balls, reduced distances, modified catching techniques

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting accurate passes, measuring distances between markers, angles of passing, time management during games

Science

Forces in pushing the ball, trajectory and direction, how muscles work during throwing and catching

Geography

Understanding direction and space, mapping movement patterns, positional awareness and orientation

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, communication skills, resilience when facing challenges, respect for rules and others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during activities, position at corners for maximum visibility of all students

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique, safe spacing, positive communication, and tactical understanding

Intervention Points

Step in when technique breaks down, unsafe play occurs, or students need tactical guidance

Demonstration Notes

Use mirror demonstration for techniques, exaggerate movements for clarity, model positive communication

Verbal Cues
  • 'Step, push, thumbs!' for passing technique
  • 'Look first!' before passing
  • 'Make a target!' for receiving

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m clear space, suitable for multiple groups of 5

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles, adequate drainage if outdoors

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Check balls are appropriate size and pressure for Year 2
  • Ensure markers are flat to prevent tripping
  • Verify cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Collisions between students moving to markers
  • Balls thrown too hard causing injury
  • Tripping over markers or equipment
  • Students running into scoring zone boundaries
Risk Mitigation
  • Clear group boundaries established
  • Emphasis on controlled passing, not throwing
  • Regular reminders about spatial awareness
  • Teacher positioning for maximum supervision

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position to observe all groups simultaneously
  • Move between groups during activities
  • Monitor for signs of fatigue or frustration
Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear procedures for injury management