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Lesson 4 - Passing and Receiving on the Move

Controlled Competition Techniques

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Year 3

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Hockey

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Big Question

How can I control the ball when it's moving and I'm moving?

Learning Objectives

To develop push passing technique with control and accuracy
To receive passes while moving using correct body positioning
To demonstrate agility, balance, coordination and precision in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will execute push passes using correct grip and body position
Students will successfully receive passes on the run maintaining ball control
Students will apply passing skills effectively in competitive game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Hockey sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks for damage, ensure appropriate length

Alternative: Wooden sticks if gum shields available

Hockey balls

15 balls

Distribute around practice areas

Alternative: Tennis balls for skill development

Cones

4 goals

Various colours for different stations

Alternative: Markers or chalk lines

Hoops

10 hoops

Used as targets and collection areas

Alternative: Marked circles with chalk

Key Vocabulary

Push Pass

A controlled pass using a pushing motion with the stick blade staying in contact with the ball

Slap Pass

A more powerful pass using a short backswing with the stick parallel to the ground

First Touch

The initial contact with the ball when receiving a pass

Stick Side

The flat surface of the hockey stick used for all ball contact

Lead

Moving into space to receive a pass from a teammate

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic stick grip and dribbling skills
Static push passing to stationary targets
Basic rules of hockey including stick use

Current Skills

Dynamic passing to moving targets
Receiving passes on the move
Using slap passes for distance

Next Steps

Tactical passing in small-sided games
Passing under defensive pressure
Creating passing opportunities in attack

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accuracy when passing on the move

Smooth first touch when receiving passes

Quick decision-making about pass selection

Key Teaching Points

Push pass: hands apart, blade stays in contact with ball, weight transfer forward
Slap pass: short backswing, stick parallel to ground, controlled follow-through
Receiving: stick ready early, soft hands, first touch keeps ball close
Game play: quick decision making, use appropriate pass for distance and situation
Safety: stick stays low, only flat side used, respect others' space
Teamwork: communication, support movement, encourage teammates
Assessment: honest self-reflection, connect performance to lesson objectives

Common Misconceptions

More power always means better pass - emphasise accuracy and control first
Stick can be used on both sides - reinforce flat side only rule consistently
First touch doesn't matter if you get the ball - stress importance of ball control
Winning is everything - balance competition with skill development and fair play
Mistakes are bad - promote growth mindset and learning from errors

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use positive reinforcement frequently

dyspraxia

Allow extra time for skill development, use larger equipment, reduce complexity of multi-step instructions

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, offer quiet zones for breaks, use visual schedules for activity transitions

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and cones, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and demonstrations, written instructions on cards, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Modify distances and speeds, allow seated participation where appropriate, use adapted equipment if available

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting passes in activities, measuring distances for game areas, calculating success rates in circuit challenges

Science

Understanding forces in ball striking, friction effects on different surfaces, body systems responding to exercise

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, mapping movement patterns, understanding directions and angles

PSHE

Teamwork skills, resilience when facing challenges, managing emotions in competitive situations, celebrating others' success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Circulate constantly, position to observe maximum number of students, stand where you can see all activity areas

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique application, safety compliance, engagement levels, and skill progression

Intervention Points

Step in when safety compromised, technique needs correction, or students need encouragement and motivation

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate at reduced speed first, exaggerate key teaching points, use students as positive examples when appropriate

Verbal Cues

•'Stick low, ball close!'
•'Soft hands for receiving!'
•'Look up, find space!'
•'Short backswing, stay low!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m area, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Even, dry surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all hockey sticks for cracks or sharp edges
•Ensure balls are in good condition and proper size
•Verify cones are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick contact between players
•Ball strikes to body/head
•Collisions during game play
•Slips and falls on turns

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise stick stays low and only flat side used
•Clear spacing rules during all activities
•Progressive introduction of contact elements
•Proper warm-up to prevent muscle injuries

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all activity areas simultaneously
•Pay special attention during transition periods
•Monitor fatigue levels and adjust intensity accordingly

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately on whistle, assess situation, apply appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required