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Lesson 7 - Blocking and Ball Protection

Confidence Through Skill Progression

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Year 3

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Dodgeball

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use a ball as a shield to protect ourselves in dodgeball?

Learning Objectives

To learn and demonstrate effective blocking techniques using a ball
To understand and apply blocking rules in game situations
To develop defensive awareness and teamwork skills

Key Outcomes

Students will block balls effectively using correct technique
Students will apply blocking skills in game contexts
Students will work cooperatively to protect team members

Equipment & Resources Required

Dodgeball

1 per student (30)

Distributed evenly around teaching area

Alternative: Foam balls, playground balls, bean bags for practice

Cones

Mark court boundaries and zones clearly

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines, rope boundaries

Team bibs

6 sets

Different colours for team identification

Alternative: Coloured bibs, wristbands, team markers

Game Balls

6 (for differentiation)

Available for students needing support

Alternative: Beach balls, larger foam balls

Key Vocabulary

Blocking

Using your ball to stop another ball from hitting your body

Ready position

Standing with knees bent, ball held in both hands, ready to move

Grip

How tightly you hold the ball with your hands

Deflection

When your blocking ball pushes away the attacking ball

Protection

Keeping yourself or teammates safe from being hit

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic catching and throwing techniques
Understanding of dodgeball basic rules
Experience with spatial awareness activities

Current Skills

Blocking technique with two-handed grip
Defensive positioning and anticipation
Team protection strategies

Next Steps

Advanced blocking under pressure
Counter-attacking after successful blocks
Tournament-style dodgeball games

Milestone Indicators

Maintains grip when ball is hit

Positions body behind blocking ball

Demonstrates awareness of multiple threats

Key Teaching Points

Always use two hands for maximum control when blocking
Keep eyes focused on the incoming ball at all times
Maintain a strong, secure grip throughout the blocking action
Use ready position with knees bent and weight on balls of feet
Push actively with your blocking ball rather than passive holding
Work as a team to protect important players like Kings and Queens
Remember the rules: hand hits are safe, but dropping the ball means you're out

Common Misconceptions

Thinking any contact with the blocking ball makes you safe (must maintain grip)
Believing blocking is passive holding (requires active pushing motion)
Assuming you can block with one hand effectively (two hands essential)
Thinking you should look away when ball approaches (eyes must track the ball)
Believing blocking is only individual skill (team protection strategies are crucial)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with movement breaks, clear boundary markers, immediate feedback and praise, leadership roles for engagement

dyspraxia

Larger, textured balls for better grip, extra practice time for technique, simplified rules initially, celebrate small improvements

autism spectrum

Clear, consistent rules displayed visually, predictable activity structure, quiet retreat space available, advance warning of game changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, use sound cues for ball approaches, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, written rule cards, hand signals for instructions, ensure student can see teacher clearly

physical disability

Lighter balls for easier handling, seated blocking practice possible, modified court size, adjust throwing distances as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, using specific vocabulary correctly, explaining rules and techniques to others

Maths

Counting successful blocks, measuring distances between players, calculating time intervals, understanding angles of deflection

Science

Forces and motion when balls collide, reaction times and reflexes, understanding trajectory and bounce physics

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding directions and movement patterns, mapping court layouts

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration, resilience when learning new skills, fair play and respect for rules, supporting others' learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all groups, position between groups during Kings and Queens game

Observation Focus

Watch for correct two-handed grip, appropriate throwing force, rule compliance, and positive teamwork

Intervention Points

Step in if throwing becomes too aggressive, if students aren't following blocking rules, or if teamwork breaks down

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion demonstrations for technique, exaggerate grip and watching actions, show both successful and unsuccessful examples clearly

Verbal Cues

•'Two hands, strong grip!'
•'Watch the ball coming!'
•'Push their ball away!'
•'Protect your teammate!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m clear space, soft boundaries preferred

Surface Check

Non-slip surface free from obstacles, appropriate for dynamic movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check balls are properly inflated and not damaged
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Team bands should not be too tight

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impacts to head or face
•Collisions during backward movement
•Tripping over equipment
•Overexertion in competitive games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear no-head-shots rule established and enforced
•Controlled throwing pace during practice
•Clear boundaries and safe spacing
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all throwing practice
•Monitor throwing power and target areas
•Watch for proper grip maintenance
•Ensure fair play and rule adherence

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately for any injury, assess severity, apply appropriate first aid, seek additional support if needed