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Lesson 3 - Man-to-Man Marking

Tactical Skills & Team Integration

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Year 4

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Basketball

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Big Question

How can we use our body position and movement to prevent opponents from scoring in basketball?

Learning Objectives

To identify and mark an opponent using man-to-man defensive principles
To explore different marking techniques against ball handlers in various situations
To apply defensive positioning strategies in competitive game scenarios

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate effective man-to-man marking techniques
Students will show improved defensive positioning and movement
Students will apply marking skills successfully in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Basketball

1 per 3 students (10 total)

Pre-positioned around court perimeter for quick access

Alternative: Size 5 balls for easier handling, rubber balls for outdoor use

Markers

40-50

Set up in circles for starter activity, various positions for skill development

Alternative: Cones, chalk marks, tape markers

Bibs

Half class set (15)

Two colours for team identification during games

Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts, bandanas

Whistles

1-2

For teacher and potential student referees

Alternative: Voice commands, hand signals

Stopwatch

For timing quarters and skill development activities

Alternative: Phone timer, classroom clock with second hand

Key Vocabulary

Man-to-man marking

A defensive strategy where each defender is assigned to guard a specific opponent throughout the play

Ball handler

The player currently in possession of the basketball

Defensive posture

A low, balanced stance that allows quick movement in any direction

Jump ball

A method of starting play where two players jump to tip the ball to teammates

Pressure

Making it difficult for opponents to pass, shoot, or dribble by staying close

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic basketball ball handling skills
Understanding of offensive and defensive roles
Ability to move safely in shared playing space

Current Skills

Man-to-man marking fundamentals
Defensive positioning principles
Transition between marking different ball handler situations

Next Steps

Zone defence concepts
Help defence and switching
Advanced defensive communication strategies

Milestone Indicators

Consistent arm's length distance from opponent

Maintains position between player and basket

Successfully disrupts opponent's actions without fouling

Key Teaching Points

Always maintain an arm's length distance from the opponent you are marking
Position yourself between the ball handler and the basket they are attacking
Keep one hand low to disrupt dribbling and one hand high to block passes and shots
Maintain a low defensive posture with knees bent for quick movement and balance
Apply pressure without making contact - defence through positioning not physical contact
Stay with your assigned player throughout the quarter, don't switch assignments
Force ball handlers towards the sideline and away from the centre of the court

Common Misconceptions

That good defence requires touching or grabbing the opponent - correct with emphasis on positioning and pressure
That defenders should jump at every pass or shot attempt - teach patience and staying grounded for balance
That faster players can't be marked effectively - show how good positioning overcomes speed advantages
That defence is less important than offence - emphasise how defence creates scoring opportunities
That man-to-man marking means following the ball - clarify the difference between marking a player and ball watching

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, regular positive feedback, specific role assignments to maintain focus

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, additional practice time, visual markers for positioning assistance, peer support system

autism spectrum

Clear structure and routine for each activity, visual schedule of lesson progression, quiet area available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and markers, provide verbal descriptions of positioning, assign sighted partner for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and hand gestures, written instructions on cards, ensure face-to-face communication for instruction

physical disability

Adapted marking positions suitable for mobility aids, modified court size, alternative ways to apply pressure without movement

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Understanding spatial relationships and distance measurement, timing activities and quarter durations, counting and scoring systems

Science

Forces and motion in defensive positioning, balance and stability concepts, reaction times and movement efficiency

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of direction and movement patterns, court layout and orientation

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience in competitive situations, respect for opponents and officials, managing emotions during competition

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position at corner of activity area for maximum visibility of all students, rotate between groups during skill development

Observation Focus

Watch for correct defensive positioning, appropriate pressure application, and maintenance of no-contact rule

Intervention Points

Step in if students are making repeated contact, showing frustration, or not understanding marking assignments

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show defensive positioning, involve students in demonstrations, and provide immediate correction of technique

Verbal Cues

•'Stay an arm's length away!'
•'Between your player and the basket!'
•'One hand high, one hand low!'
•'Don't jump - stay balanced!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 15m per court, clear of obstacles and walls

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate footwear worn

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Basketballs properly inflated and checked for damage
•Markers/cones have rounded edges and are clearly visible
•Bibs clean and in good repair

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between players during close marking
•Slips and falls during quick directional changes
•Contact during defensive activities
•Fatigue from high-intensity marking activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear no-contact rule established and enforced
•Adequate spacing between groups during skill development
•Progressive building of intensity throughout lesson
•Regular water breaks and intensity monitoring

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all courts during games
•Monitor high-activity areas particularly during game application
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration affecting safety

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, ensure clear access for emergency services if required