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Lesson 5 - Shoulder Pass & Game Use

Progressive Skills & Tactics

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Year 3

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Netball

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45 min

Big Question

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

Netball

1 per pair (15 balls)

Place balls around court perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Size 3 footballs, rugby balls for grip practice

Coloured Cones

22 cones

4 cones for each small game area, extras for distance markers

Alternative: Markers, hoops, or chalk circles

Coloured Bibs

15 bibs (2 colours)

One colour for attackers, one for defenders in games

Alternative: Different coloured tops, arm bands

Measuring Tapes

For demonstrating distances and one metre rule

Alternative: Metre rulers, pre-measured rope

Key Vocabulary

Shoulder Pass

A one-handed pass thrown from above shoulder height for longer distances

Distance

How far the ball needs to travel to reach your teammate

Space

An empty area on the court where a player can move to receive the ball

Interception

When a defender catches or touches the ball to stop an attacking pass

One Metre Rule

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

Consistent shoulder pass technique

Quick decision making between pass types

Effective movement without the ball

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