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Lesson 4 - Passing Under Pressure

Skill Application & Game Progression

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Year 4

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Basketball

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Big Question

How can we maintain possession of the ball when opponents are trying to take it away from us?

Learning Objectives

To pass the ball accurately on the move using different techniques
To maintain possession through quick passing and movement
To demonstrate effective communication during team play

Key Outcomes

Students will pass the ball with good technique while moving
Students will work together to keep possession under pressure
Students will show improved agility, balance, coordination and precision

Equipment & Resources Required

Basketball

1 per student (30)

Check inflation levels before lesson

Alternative: Large playground balls, netballs

Coloured Bibs

15 (5 colours)

Sort into team sets before lesson

Alternative: Coloured bands, team pennants

Dish Cones

Use for area boundaries and end zones

Alternative: Spot markers, dome cones

Tablets

Ensure sufficient storage and battery

Alternative: Digital camera with video function

Key Vocabulary

Overhead Pass

A two-handed pass made from above the head to clear tall opponents

Shoulder Pass

A one-handed pass from shoulder height for longer distances

Possession

Keeping control of the ball within your team

Triple Threat Position

Ready position where you can shoot, pass or dribble

Double Dribble

Illegal move - dribbling with both hands or stopping and restarting dribble

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills
Stationary passing techniques
Understanding of personal space

Current Skills

Dynamic passing on the move
Possession play under pressure
Advanced communication skills

Next Steps

Shooting techniques from different positions
Defensive strategies and positioning
Advanced game tactics and set plays

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate passing whilst moving

Effective decision-making under pressure

Clear verbal and non-verbal communication

Key Teaching Points

Overhead pass: ball above head, step forward, sharp wrist flick down
Shoulder pass: ball at shoulder, opposite foot forward, drive through target
Quick decision making: release ball within 3 seconds of receiving
Communication: call for ball, direct teammates, encourage constantly
Movement after passing: don't stand still, create new passing options
Possession focus: keep ball within team through quick passing and movement
Rule application: understand dribbling rules, travelling, and game boundaries

Common Misconceptions

Thinking overhead passes are just chest passes held higher - emphasise above head position
Believing power is most important in passing - stress accuracy and timing over force
Assuming static positioning is acceptable - emphasise constant movement after passing
Thinking individual skills matter more than teamwork - highlight collective possession
Misunderstanding that defending means grabbing - teach proper defensive pressure without fouling

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with regular breaks, clear visual boundaries, frequent position changes, immediate feedback

dyspraxia

Larger, softer balls initially, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, partner support system

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available, predictable routines, advance warning of changes

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls, clear verbal instructions, buddy system with sighted partner, tactile boundary markers

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards, vibrating signals for timing

physical disability

Seated passing variations, modified equipment sizes, adapted court sizes, alternative scoring methods

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills, following and giving instructions, vocabulary development, describing techniques

Maths

Counting consecutive passes, measuring distances for passes, calculating success percentages, timing activities

Science

Understanding forces in passing, trajectory and angles, reaction times, body systems during exercise

Geography

Spatial awareness, directions and positioning, mapping movement patterns around court areas

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competitive pressure, celebrating others' success, resilience when losing possession

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of activities for optimal viewing, position centrally for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Technical skill development, safety awareness, inclusion of all students, communication levels

Intervention Points

Step in if unsafe play occurs, support struggling students, extend confident learners

Demonstration Notes

Use students to model good practice where possible, exaggerate key teaching points for clarity, ensure all can see demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Quick passes!'
•'Move to space!'
•'Communicate with your team!'
•'Eyes up, see your options!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m, clear of obstacles with defined boundaries

Surface Check

Dry, even surface suitable for running and ball bouncing

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check basketballs are properly inflated
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify filming equipment is secure and positioned safely

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during dynamic games
•Slips and falls on court surface
•Ball strikes to head or body
•Overexertion during high-intensity activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established with adequate space between activities
•Progressive skill building from stationary to dynamic
•Controlled contact rules explained and enforced
•Regular rest periods and rotation systems
•Appropriate ball pressure for age group

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Circulate actively during game phases
•Monitor high-intensity periods for fatigue
•Ensure rule adherence to prevent dangerous play

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, apply appropriate first aid, seek additional support if required