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Lesson 4 - Passing, Moving and Dribbling

Progressive Skill Integration

•

Year 3

•

Basketball

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45 min

Big Question

How can we combine passing, moving and dribbling to keep possession and score in basketball?

Learning Objectives

To develop accurate passing and receiving skills under pressure
To understand when to pass or dribble based on game situations
To apply the triple threat concept in game-like scenarios

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved passing accuracy in possession games
Students will show understanding of when to pass vs dribble in competitive situations
Students will work effectively as a team to maintain possession and score points

Equipment & Resources Required

Basketball

1 per 3 students (10)

Distributed around court perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Size 3 footballs, netballs

Cones

Mark endzone boundaries and court areas

Alternative: Markers, spots, bean bags

Coloured Bibs

15 (3 different colours)

Different colours for teams in 3v3 games

Alternative: Bands, coloured shirts

Whistles

For stopping and starting games quickly

Alternative: Voice commands, hand signals

Key Vocabulary

Triple Threat

A ready position where a player can shoot, pass, or dribble

Possession

When your team has control of the ball

Chest Pass

A two-handed pass from chest level with a pushing motion

Creating Space

Moving to an area where you can receive the ball without interference

Endzone

The scoring area at each end of the playing field

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and dribbling with control
Chest pass technique in static situations
Understanding of simple attacking and defending roles

Current Skills

Passing under pressure from defenders
Decision-making between passing and dribbling
Moving to create and find space
Triple threat position and concept

Next Steps

Advanced passing techniques (bounce pass, overhead pass)
Complex movement patterns and team tactics
Shooting techniques and game strategies

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate passing in game situations

Quick decision-making under pressure

Effective teamwork in possession games

Key Teaching Points

Triple threat position is the foundation for all basketball decisions
Decision-making between pass and dribble depends on game situation
Creating space through movement is essential for team success
Quick transitions between attack and defence develop game understanding
Teamwork and communication improve possession retention
Progressive pressure builds confidence and skill application
Reflection consolidates learning and improves retention

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking dribbling is always better than passing - teach when each is appropriate
Believing you must always pass to the closest teammate - teach about creating better options
Thinking defenders can't be beaten - show how movement and decision-making create advantages
Assuming triple threat means you must shoot - explain it's about keeping options open
Believing faster is always better - teach controlled, purposeful movement

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear movement boundaries, frequent positive feedback and role changes

dyspraxia

Larger balls for easier handling, reduced court size, additional practice time for skill development

autism spectrum

Provide clear routines and expectations, visual schedules, quiet spaces for breaks if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and cones, provide verbal descriptions of court layout, partner with sighted students

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written game rules displayed

physical disability

Seated passing versions, modified court sizes, adapted equipment like lighter balls

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills, vocabulary development, listening to instructions and feedback

Maths

Counting passes in possession games, measuring distances for court setup, calculating success rates

Science

Understanding forces in passing and dribbling, balance and stability in triple threat position

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when losing possession, respect for opponents and officials

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position centrally during demonstrations, move to corners during games for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct triple threat positioning, decision-making quality, and team cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in when safety is compromised, when students are struggling with concepts, or when games become unbalanced

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate from triple threat position, exaggerate movements for clarity, involve students in demonstrations when possible

Verbal Cues

•'Triple threat first!'
•'Look before you decide!'
•'Move to help your teammate!'
•'Great decision-making!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m clear space, preferably indoor court or MUGA

Surface Check

Non-slip surface free from water, debris, or obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check basketballs are properly inflated and not damaged
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify bibs are in good condition without tears

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during games
•Slips and falls on court surface
•Ball impact injuries to face or body
•Overexertion during high-intensity games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all activities
•Controlled defensive pressure - no contact allowed
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Regular water breaks and monitoring of exertion levels
•Clear sight lines maintained for teacher supervision

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe multiple games simultaneously
•Move around teaching area during activities
•Monitor energy levels and encourage appropriate rest

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students continue safely