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Lesson 1 - Dribbling and Control

Possession Skills Progression

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Year 3

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Hockey

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use hockey sticks to control the ball and keep possession from opponents?

Learning Objectives

To introduce and develop basic hockey dribbling technique with correct stick grip
To understand when, where and why to dribble in invasion games
To maintain control and possession while changing direction and speed

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate correct stick grip with left hand at top and right hand lower
Students will dribble using flat side of stick while maintaining control
Students will show understanding of dribbling tactics in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Hockey sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks for damage, ensure appropriate height

Alternative: Shorter plastic sticks for younger students

Hockey balls

1 per student (30)

Distribute around area perimeter before lesson starts

Alternative: Softer foam balls, larger balls for easier control

Cones

24-30 cones

Mark out 6 practice areas, 4-5 cones per area

Alternative: Markers, quoits, or chalk marks

Bibs

6 different colours

One colour per practice group for easy identification

Alternative: Team bands, coloured cones for identification

Key Vocabulary

Dribbling

Moving the ball along the ground while maintaining control using the hockey stick

Flat side

The smooth side of the hockey stick blade used for ball control

Grip

How we hold the hockey stick - left hand at top, right hand lower

Possession

Having control of the ball with your team

Interception

When the defending team gains possession of the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball control with hands in previous invasion games
Understanding of personal space and spatial awareness
Basic movement patterns - running, stopping, changing direction

Current Skills

Correct hockey stick grip and stance
Basic dribbling technique using flat side of stick
Control and possession in static and moving situations

Next Steps

Passing the ball to teammates
Receiving passes while moving
Shooting at goal with accuracy

Milestone Indicators

Consistent correct grip throughout practice

Ball stays within stick's reach during dribbling

Can change direction without losing control

Key Teaching Points

Correct grip is fundamental - left hand at top, right hand lower on stick
Always use flat side of stick blade for ball control and dribbling
Keep ball close to body using small, controlled touches
Head up for spatial awareness and safety - avoid looking down at ball
Bend knees and stay balanced for better control and movement
Use body to protect ball when under pressure from defenders
Change direction by adjusting stick angle, not just running differently

Common Misconceptions

Thinking you need to hit the ball hard to dribble effectively - correct with emphasis on soft, controlled touches
Believing you can only dribble in straight lines - teach that changing direction is key to beating opponents
Assuming the rounded edge of stick can be used - consistently reinforce flat side only rule
Thinking dribbling is only about speed - emphasise control and decision making over pace
Believing you should always dribble when you have the ball - introduce concept of when dribbling is appropriate

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, movement breaks, fidget tools available during instruction

dyspraxia

Larger/softer balls for easier control, simplified movements focusing on one skill at a time, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Clear visual routine schedule, quiet zones available for breaks, consistent language and expectations

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and audible balls, provide verbal cues for direction, assign buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations and hand signals, provide written instruction cards, use visual start/stop signals

physical disability

Seated hockey version using hands if needed, modified lighter sticks, adjust area size for mobility aids

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting gate passes, measuring distances for activities, understanding angles for direction changes

Science

Forces and motion when moving ball, friction between stick and ball, body systems during exercise

Geography

Directional language - left, right, forward, backward, spatial awareness concepts

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when making mistakes, respect for others and equipment

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at corner of area for maximum visibility, move between groups during activities

Observation Focus

Watch for correct grip, ball control, safe spacing, and positive interactions

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe stick use, provide technique support during skill breakdown

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate with exaggerated movements for visibility, contrast correct vs incorrect technique, use students as positive examples

Verbal Cues

•'Flat side only!'
•'Soft touches, keep it close!'
•'Head up, find space!'
•'Knees bent, ready position!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m, clear of obstacles with non-slip surface

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from stones, leaves or other hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all hockey sticks for cracks, splinters or loose grips before use
•Ensure balls are appropriate size and not over-inflated
•Cones should have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick contact with other students during swinging motions
•Ball strikes to head, face or body
•Collisions during movement activities
•Slips and falls on outdoor surfaces

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained throughout lesson
•Adequate spacing between students during all activities (minimum 3 metres)
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic activities
•Emphasis on controlled movements and awareness of others

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all students at all times, particularly during game activities
•Move around groups during activities to monitor technique and safety
•Monitor fatigue levels and provide rest breaks as needed

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear evacuation route planned