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Lesson 2 - Kicking Direction & Selection

Striking Game Tactics

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Year 2

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Striking & Fielding

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45 min

Big Question

How can I use different parts of my foot to send the ball where I want it to go?

Learning Objectives

Make tactical decisions about which direction to send the ball using different parts of the foot
Use inside and outside of foot kicking techniques to send the ball accurately
Experience and understand the role of backstop in fielding games

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate kicking using inside and outside of foot
Students will make strategic decisions about ball placement based on fielder positions
Students will successfully perform the backstop role with quick, accurate fielding

Equipment & Resources Required

Softballs

1 per student (30)

Distributed around practice areas

Alternative: Size 3 footballs, foam balls for less confident students

Cones

4 sets (16 total)

Mark square boundaries and collection points

Alternative: Markers, bean bags

Bibs

8-12

Distinguish batting and fielding teams

Alternative: Coloured cones for team identification

Key Vocabulary

Inside of foot

The inner side of your foot used for accurate, controlled kicks

Outside of foot

The outer edge of your foot used to send the ball in the opposite direction

Backstop

A fielder who stands behind the batter to collect missed balls

Dominant foot

The foot you prefer to kick with and feel most confident using

Base foot

The non-kicking foot that provides balance and stability

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball rolling and catching skills
Understanding of simple game rules
Basic spatial awareness in games

Current Skills

Kicking with inside and outside of foot
Making tactical decisions about ball placement
Backstop positioning and fielding

Next Steps

Advanced striking techniques in team games
Complex tactical decision making
Coordinated team fielding strategies

Milestone Indicators

Consistent use of appropriate foot surface for intended direction

Quick decision making about ball placement

Confident backstop performance

Key Teaching Points

Inside of foot provides control and accuracy for tactical placement
Outside of foot creates unpredictable direction change to beat fielders
Backstop positioning is crucial for effective fielding support
Tactical decision making requires observation of fielder positions
Base foot positioning determines kicking accuracy and balance
Communication between teammates improves overall game performance
Practice with both feet develops versatility and tactical options

Common Misconceptions

Using toe instead of foot surface reduces accuracy and control
Always kicking hard doesn't guarantee better results than placement
Backstop role is passive - actually requires active anticipation and movement
Same technique works in all situations - tactical variety is key
Individual skill matters more than team tactics - both are essential

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback, movement breaks

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for techniques, simplified movement patterns, larger equipment options

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of field positions, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for instructions, written position cards

physical disability

Modify kicking techniques for seated play, use larger/softer balls, adapt distances as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting runs scored, measuring distances between stumps, angles of ball direction, timing activities

Science

Forces and motion in ball kicking, friction between foot and ball, gravity in ball drop technique

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness, mapping player positions, understanding of right/left orientation

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, taking on different roles, resilience when learning new skills, fair play

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at edge of playing area for maximum visibility, move around to support different groups

Observation Focus

Watch for correct foot technique, tactical decision making, and safe participation

Intervention Points

Step in when students struggle with technique, need tactical guidance, or safety concerns arise

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate techniques slowly first, then at game speed. Use clear verbal cues with visual demonstrations.

Verbal Cues

•'Inside foot for control!'
•'Look where the fielders are!'
•'Outside foot changes direction!'
•'Quick collection, backstop!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m outdoor area, or large indoor hall with high ceiling

Surface Check

Even, dry surface free from holes, debris, or hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all balls are properly inflated and undamaged
•Ensure stumps/markers are stable and safe
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions during running
•Slips and falls on playing surface
•Overexertion during vigourous activity

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear boundaries and safe zones
•Teach proper ball handling and kicking techniques
•Ensure adequate spacing during all activities
•Use controlled ball speeds appropriate for age group
•Position backstops safely behind stumps

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Monitor high-activity areas closely
•Check on students showing signs of fatigue
•Ensure safe equipment handling throughout

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, seek additional support if needed