Lesson 5 - Shoulder Pass & Game Use
Progressive Skills & Tactics
•Year 3
•Netball
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How can we make our passes travel further to reach teammates in better positions?
Learning Objectives
- To throw over longer distances using the shoulder pass technique
- To recognise when to use different passes based on distance and game situations
- To apply shoulder pass effectively in game scenarios to build attacking play
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved throwing distance using shoulder pass
- Students will make tactical decisions about pass selection based on distance
- Students will use shoulder pass effectively in small-sided games
Equipment & Resources Required
Place balls around court perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Size 3 footballs, rugby balls for grip practice
4 cones for each small game area, extras for distance markers
Alternative: Markers, hoops, or chalk circles
One colour for attackers, one for defenders in games
Alternative: Different coloured tops, arm bands
For demonstrating distances and one metre rule
Alternative: Metre rulers, pre-measured rope
Key Vocabulary
A one-handed pass thrown from above shoulder height for longer distances
How far the ball needs to travel to reach your teammate
An empty area on the court where a player can move to receive the ball
When a defender catches or touches the ball to stop an attacking pass
Defenders must stay at least one metre away from the player with the ball
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic chest pass technique
- Understanding of netball basic rules
- Experience with ball handling and catching
Current Skills
- Shoulder pass technique for distance
- Tactical decision making for pass selection
- Movement patterns to create and use space
Next Steps
- Advanced shoulder pass accuracy under pressure
- Defensive positioning and interception techniques
- Full game application with all pass types
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Shoulder pass uses opposite foot forward to throwing arm for balance and power
- Ball position above shoulder height is crucial for distance and trajectory
- Weight transfer from back foot to front foot generates power for distance
- Decision making between chest and shoulder pass depends on distance and game situation
- Movement off the ball creates space and passing opportunities
- One metre rule must be maintained when defending
- Netball rules prohibit running with the ball and require accurate passing
Common Misconceptions
- Same foot forward as throwing arm - correct by emphasising opposite foot placement
- Ball held too low reducing distance - ensure ball starts above shoulder height
- Using two hands for shoulder pass - demonstrate one-handed technique clearly
- Throwing harder instead of improving technique - emphasise smooth technique over power
- Always using the same pass regardless of distance - practice decision making scenarios
- Standing still when receiving - encourage active movement to create space
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries marked, additional movement breaks, simplified instructions
dyspraxia
- Larger balls for easier catching, reduced throwing distances, extra practice time, step-by-step technique breakdown
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual timetable of lesson sections, quiet zones available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls with bells inside, verbal descriptions of all movements, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, use of hand signals for game instructions, written rule cards available
physical disability
- Seated throwing variations, modified distances, lightweight balls, adapted equipment as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances for pass effectiveness, counting passes in games, estimating throwing distances, angles of passes
Science
Forces and motion in throwing actions, understanding trajectory and distance, biomechanics of weight transfer
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of direction and movement, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competition, supporting others' learning, building confidence
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move continuously between groups to provide individual feedback, position at corners for maximum visibility during games
Observation Focus
Watch for correct foot positioning in shoulder pass, decision making in pass selection, movement patterns off the ball
Intervention Points
Step in if technique deteriorates significantly, if students struggle with rule understanding, or if competitive element becomes too intense
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for visibility, demonstrate both correct and incorrect technique for comparison, involve students in demonstrations where appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Opposite foot forward!'
- •'Ball above shoulder!'
- •'Weight from back to front!'
- •'Think about distance!'
- •'Move into space!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m hall or outdoor netball court, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate for running and stopping
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check netballs are properly inflated and in good condition
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify measuring equipment is safe and accurate
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impacts to head or body
- •Collisions between moving students
- •Slips and falls during dynamic activities
- •Overexertion during throwing activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for all activities
- •Adequate spacing between groups maintained
- •Progressive skill building to prevent overexertion
- •Emphasis on controlled movements and safe catching
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups
- •Monitor throwing power and technique
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration
- •Ensure rule compliance especially no-contact rule
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if serious