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Lesson 4 - Dribbling to Score Points

Foundation Feet Skills Through Progressive Team Play

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Year 2

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Ball Skills

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use dribbling skills to keep possession and score points while staying away from defenders?

Learning Objectives

Develop dribbling using feet to maintain possession and score points
Understand the importance of ball control when moving in space
Apply dribbling skills in game situations with defenders

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled dribbling with both feet
Students will successfully score points by dribbling into target zones
Students will show understanding of when and where to dribble

Equipment & Resources Required

Softballs

1 per student (30)

Balls distributed around perimeter before lesson starts

Alternative: Size 3 footballs preferred, tennis balls for students with coordination difficulties

Cones

Used to mark out 4-6 scoring zones of different sizes

Alternative: Chalk, markers, or hoops for zone marking

Bibs

For identifying defenders in progression activities

Alternative: Coloured bands or different coloured balls

Key Vocabulary

Dribbling

Moving the ball forward using small touches with your feet while maintaining control

Possession

Keeping control of the ball so the other team cannot take it

Control

Keeping the ball exactly where you want it to be

Space

An area on the pitch where there are no defenders

Defenders

Players trying to win the ball back from the attacking team

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball control with feet from previous lessons
Understanding of personal space and movement
Experience with simple ball games

Current Skills

Controlled dribbling with feet
Dribbling to maintain possession
Dribbling to score points in target zones
Understanding tactical awareness in games

Next Steps

Dribbling past moving defenders
Combination play with passing and dribbling
More complex game situations with multiple defenders

Milestone Indicators

Consistent ball control while moving

Ability to change direction while dribbling

Understanding of when to dribble vs when to pass

Key Teaching Points

Keep ball close to feet using small, controlled touches
Use both feet to dribble and change direction effectively
Look up regularly to see space and avoid other players
Change pace when needed - slow for control, quick for space
Protect ball with body when defenders approach
Plan route to zones rather than dribbling randomly
Encourage teammates and play fairly throughout games

Common Misconceptions

Thinking bigger touches will make you faster - actually reduces control
Believing only strong foot is needed - both feet give more options
Looking down at ball constantly - prevents seeing space and teammates
Panicking when defenders approach - staying calm maintains control
Going to nearest zone always - strategic thinking gets more points

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short bursts of activity with clear breaks, immediate feedback, movement built into instructions

dyspraxia

Larger balls initially, reduced space complexity, extra practice time, step-by-step movement breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available, consistent routines and language

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and cones, provide verbal descriptions of zone locations, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear hand signals, written instructions on board, ensure student can see teacher

physical disability

Adapted balls (larger/lighter), seated dribbling options, modified zone sizes, wheelchair accessible zones

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting points scored, measuring distances between zones, understanding shapes of zones

Science

Forces needed to control ball, friction between ball and surface, energy and movement

Geography

Directions and pathways, mapping routes between zones, spatial relationships

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, fair play and honesty

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at edge of area for clear visibility, move to different viewpoints during activities

Observation Focus

Watch for ball control, spatial awareness, and safety in congested areas

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with ball control, unsafe play, or not following rules

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements. Show common mistakes and corrections. Involve confident students in demonstrations.

Verbal Cues

•'Small touches!'
•'Head up, look around!'
•'Use your other foot!'
•'Find the space!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 15m, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Ensure playing surface is dry, even, and free from debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check footballs are correctly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure cones are stable and highly visible
•Verify bibs are clean and appropriate size

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students when dribbling
•Trips and falls when changing direction quickly
•Ball strikes to face or body
•Overexertion during extended activity

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained
•Adequate spacing between students emphasised throughout
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Regular breaks and hydration reminders
•Clear rules about fair play and gentle tagging

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Monitor high-traffic areas around popular zones
•Watch for students showing signs of fatigue
•Ensure tag rules are followed safely

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately with whistle/voice, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support as needed