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Lesson 5 - Jab Tackle and Game Application

Controlled Competition Techniques

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Year 3

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Hockey

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Big Question

How can we use the jab tackle effectively to win possession while maintaining fair play?

Learning Objectives

To perform a jab tackle with correct technique and timing
To demonstrate understanding of the advantage rule in hockey
To evaluate peers' tackling technique using appropriate technical language

Key Outcomes

Students will execute jab tackles with left foot forward and controlled stick movement
Students will apply the advantage rule correctly during game situations
Students will assess and feedback on tackling performance using hockey vocabulary

Equipment & Resources Required

Hockey sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks for damage before lesson, ensure appropriate length

Alternative: Shorter sticks for smaller students, foam sticks for beginners

Hockey balls

1 per student + 35 spares

Keep spare balls around court perimeter for quick replacement

Alternative: Softer foam balls, larger balls for visibility

Dish Cones

50 cones

Use bright colours for clear visibility, stable base cones

Alternative: Spot markers, chalk lines for indoor courts

Small Goal

6 goals

Secure goals to prevent tipping, appropriate height for Year 3

Alternative: Cone goals, bench goals, wall targets

Coloured Bibs

10 bibs (2 colours)

Clean bibs available, different sizes for comfort

Alternative: Coloured bands, team shirts

Game Balls

6 sponge balls

Use for Cannonball Run activity, safe for throwing

Alternative: Soft foam balls, bean bags

Key Vocabulary

Jab tackle

A defensive skill using a quick forward thrust of the stick to dislodge the ball from an opponent

Advantage rule

Allowing play to continue when the fouling team doesn't benefit from their mistake

Shielding

Using your body position to protect the ball from opponents while maintaining control

Dislodge

To knock or move the ball away from an opponent's control

Technical language

Specific hockey vocabulary used to describe skills and techniques accurately

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic dribbling with hockey stick
Understanding of one-sided stick use
Basic defensive positioning concepts

Current Skills

Jab tackle technique and timing
Game application of tackling
Peer assessment using technical language

Next Steps

Block tackle introduction
Advanced defensive positioning
Small-sided game tactics

Milestone Indicators

Consistent left foot forward positioning

Successful tackle attempts in game situations

Use of technical vocabulary in peer feedback

Key Teaching Points

Jab tackle requires left foot forward for balance and maximum reach
Timing is crucial - only tackle when ball is clear of opponent's stick
Advantage rule continues play when foot contact doesn't benefit the fouling team
Technical language helps students analyse and improve performance
Peer assessment develops both observation skills and communication
Game application builds confidence with skills under pressure
Positive team discussions enhance learning and cooperation

Common Misconceptions

Students may think any foot contact stops play - emphasise accidental vs deliberate distinction
Some believe tackling means taking the ball away completely - focus on dislodging and regaining possession
Technical language is only for teachers - encourage students to use hockey vocabulary in peer feedback
Being tackled successfully means failure - reframe as learning opportunity and skill development
Fastest player always wins the ball - emphasise decision-making and timing over pure speed

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, frequent positive feedback and goal celebration

dyspraxia

Extra demonstration time, peer support, modified timing expectations, celebration of effort over outcome

autism spectrum

Clear routines for station changes, visual schedule of activities, quiet reflection space available

visual impairment

Bright coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for game management, written instruction cards

physical disability

Modified stick length, seated tackling practice, adapted court sizes and rules

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, clear communication in peer feedback, following complex instructions

Maths

Counting points in Battleships, timing activities, measuring distances for tackle range

Science

Forces in tackling motion, body mechanics of balance and movement, reaction times

PSHE

Resilience when tackled, supporting teammates through encouragement, fair play and honesty in self-assessment

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Circulate during activities, central position during demonstrations, court-side during games for safety monitoring

Observation Focus

Jab tackle technique (left foot forward, quick jab motion), decision-making about tackle timing, use of technical language in feedback

Intervention Points

Step in if tackling becomes unsafe, support students struggling with peer assessment, encourage use of technical vocabulary

Demonstration Notes

Exaggerate left foot position for visibility, show timing clearly with volunteer, model technical language use, demonstrate advantage rule scenarios

Verbal Cues

•'Left foot forward!'
•'Quick jab, not a push!'
•'Wait for the right moment!'
•'Use your hockey words!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for main activities, clear courts for small games

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles, check for loose cones or equipment

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check hockey sticks for damage before lesson
•Ensure sponge balls are soft and suitable for throwing
•Verify goals are stable and appropriate height

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick contact during tackling practice
•Collisions during competitive activities
•Trips from balls or equipment

Risk Mitigation

•Clear instructions about safe tackling timing
•Adequate spacing during all activities
•Progressive skill building before full contact
•Continuous supervision of technique

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during circuits
•Monitor tackling technique closely
•Watch for fatigue during competitive games

Emergency Procedures

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