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Lesson 2 - Protective Dribbling

Skills & Tactics Overview

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Year 3

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Basketball

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our body to protect the ball and keep possession from defenders?

Learning Objectives

To develop protective dribbling skills against opposition
To apply turning and shielding techniques whilst maintaining ball control
To understand and follow basketball rules during game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate protective dribbling using body position and arm placement
Students will show improved ball control when under pressure from defenders
Students will apply basketball rules consistently during small-sided games

Equipment & Resources Required

Basketball

1 per student (30)

Pre-positioned around area perimeter for easy collection

Alternative: Size 3 footballs, large playground balls for easier handling

Team bibs

15 (for differentiation and games)

Two colours available for team identification

Alternative: Different coloured pinnies, house team shirts

Coloured Cones

8-12

Keep handy for traffic light variations and area marking

Alternative: Coloured bean bags, hoops for visual signals

Dish Cones

16 for area boundaries

Mark 20m x 20m area and smaller 10m x 10m zones

Alternative: Existing playground markings, chalk lines

Key Vocabulary

Protective dribbling

Using your body as a barrier between the defender and the ball whilst dribbling

V-dribble

Dribbling the ball from hand to hand in a V-shape to change direction

Double dribble

Stopping your dribble and then starting to dribble again, which is against the rules

Travelling

Moving with the ball without dribbling it, which is against basketball rules

Barrier

Using your body to block the defender's access to the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and stationary dribbling
Understanding of personal space and movement
Introduction to basketball rules from previous lesson

Current Skills

Protective dribbling technique using body position
V-dribble for changing direction
Applying pressure as a defender whilst following rules

Next Steps

Passing under pressure from defenders
Moving into space to receive passes
Introduction to simple basketball tactics

Milestone Indicators

Student can shield ball using non-dribbling arm consistently

Student demonstrates low body position when protecting ball

Student applies correct technique without teacher prompting

Key Teaching Points

Protective dribbling requires turning the back to create a body barrier between defender and ball
Low body position with bent knees provides better stability and control during pressure situations
Non-dribbling arm extends out to create additional space and protection from defenders
V-dribble technique changes direction effectively when space is available to move
Decision-making between protective dribbling and V-dribble depends on defender's position and available space
Basketball rules of double dribble and travelling must be maintained even under defensive pressure
Fair play and respect for opponents are essential even in competitive situations

Common Misconceptions

Thinking protective dribbling means running away - it's about creating space using body position
Believing harder dribbling means better control - soft hands and fingertip control are more effective
Assuming defenders should be aggressive - controlled pressure teaches better technique
Thinking V-dribble can be used when closely marked - it requires space to be effective
Believing only talented students can master protective dribbling - it's a skill all can develop with practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries marked, frequent positive feedback, movement breaks, leadership roles to maintain engagement

dyspraxia

Larger, softer basketballs, reduced complexity in multi-step skills, extra practice time, break down techniques into smaller components

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual timetable of activities, quiet zones available, consistent language and signals, prepare for activity changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured basketballs, provide clear verbal descriptions of techniques, pair with sighted buddy for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for commands, written instruction cards, buddy system for rule explanations

physical disability

Seated basketball version using wheelchair or chair, larger balls for easier handling, adapted distances for throwing, modified protective positions

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, using descriptive language during reflection, listening skills during rule explanations and discussions

Maths

Counting touches and scores, timing 30-second intervals, measuring distances for area setup, angles of body position for optimal protection

Science

Forces and friction when dribbling, balance and centre of gravity for stability, reaction time and coordination during games

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing emotions under pressure, fair play and honesty, celebrating others' successes and showing resilience when losing possession

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter for visibility, position centrally for demonstrations, stay mobile during games

Observation Focus

Watch for correct protective body position, monitor defensive pressure levels, check rule application

Intervention Points

Step in if physical contact becomes excessive, support struggling students with individual guidance, manage group dynamics

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for key teaching points, involve students in demonstrations, show both correct and incorrect techniques for comparison

Verbal Cues

•'Get low, make a barrier!'
•'Turn your back to the defender!'
•'Soft hands on the ball!'
•'Eyes up, not down!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 30m with additional 10m x 10m zones marked out for group games

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for dribbling basketballs

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check basketballs are correctly inflated - not too hard
•Ensure team bands fit properly and won't restrict movement
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball collisions during dribbling activities
•Slips from poor footwork or wet surfaces
•Physical contact during defensive activities
•Overexertion from continuous activity

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and adequate spacing between students
•Emphasise controlled contact - no grabbing or pushing
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Regular hydration breaks in warm weather
•Modify activities for students with specific needs

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups during games
•Monitor physical contact levels during Ball Steal activity
•Watch for signs of frustration or overcompetitive behaviour
•Ensure inclusive participation and appropriate challenges

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, contact office if required