Lesson 7 - Blocking with the Ball
Tactical Awareness Skills
•Year 4
•Dodgeball
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How can we use equipment strategically to protect ourselves and our teammates?
Learning Objectives
- To develop the skill of blocking using a ball as a defensive tool
- To understand and apply blocking rules effectively in game situations
- To work collaboratively to protect team members during play
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate controlled blocking technique with two-handed grip
- Students will apply blocking rules correctly during competitive games
- Students will show strategic thinking to protect their team's king or queen
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed evenly around playing area perimeter
Alternative: Foam balls, playground balls for younger students
Mark court boundaries and neutral zones clearly
Alternative: Markers, spots for court boundaries
Different colours for teams and king/queen identification
Alternative: Coloured bibs, team identifiers
Key Vocabulary
Using one ball to deflect or stop another ball from hitting you
How tightly and securely you hold the ball with your hands
Pushing an incoming ball away from its target path
Balanced stance with knees bent, ready to move in any direction
Special player whose elimination ends the game for the whole team
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling with two hands
- Understanding of dodgeball throwing and catching
- Awareness of spatial positioning and movement
Current Skills
- Defensive blocking technique with controlled grip
- Application of blocking rules in game situations
- Strategic positioning for team protection
Next Steps
- Advanced blocking combinations and techniques
- Integrated offensive and defensive strategies
- Leadership roles in competitive dodgeball games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Two-handed grip on blocking ball is essential for control and safety
- Visual tracking of incoming ball improves reaction time and success rate
- Strong grip must be maintained even when contact is made with incoming ball
- Ready position with bent knees allows quick direction changes for team protection
- Communication between teammates is crucial for effective defensive strategies
- Blocking is a defensive skill that requires practice and confidence to master
- Team protection adds strategic element beyond individual blocking technique
Common Misconceptions
- Blocking is the same as catching - clarify that blocking deflects while catching secures
- Any contact with ball while blocking means elimination - explain hand contact exception
- Blocking requires aggressive movement - emphasise controlled, precise movements
- Only strong students can block effectively - demonstrate technique over strength
- Blocking is purely defensive - show how it enables offensive opportunities
- Kings/Queens should hide - encourage them to use blocking skills actively
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with movement breaks, clear visual boundaries, regular positive feedback for attention
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified rules initially, extra practice time, step-by-step visual guides
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available, predictable routines with advance warning of changes
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls with bells inside, verbal descriptions of ball location, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Visual hand signals for game rules, demonstration of all techniques, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Seated blocking version available, larger lighter balls, modified throwing distances, wheelchair accessible courts
Cross-Curricular Links
Science
Forces and motion in ball deflection, reaction times, body mechanics during movement
Geography
Spatial awareness, position and direction, mapping movement patterns around court
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, protecting others, handling competitive pressure, communication skills
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at corner of main court for visibility of all activities, rotate between groups during practice
Observation Focus
Watch for grip consistency, reaction timing, team communication, and adherence to blocking rules
Intervention Points
Step in if throwing becomes too aggressive, if students aren't following safety rules, or if blocking technique needs correction
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Always show blocking motion slowly first, then at game speed; use positive student examples whenever possible
Verbal Cues
- •'Two hands, tight grip!'
- •'Watch the ball coming!'
- •'Push it away!'
- •'Protect your teammate!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 20m per court, clear of obstacles with 2m safety perimeter
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate footwear for grip
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check dodgeballs are appropriate weight and condition
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or damage
- •Verify team bands are secure but not too tight
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impact injuries from hard throws
- •Collisions between students during movement
- •Slips and falls during direction changes
- •Overexertion during competitive games
Risk Mitigation
- •Start with gentle throws and progress gradually
- •Clear court boundaries and neutral zones established
- •Adequate spacing between courts and groups
- •Regular breaks and heart rate monitoring
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all courts
- •Monitor throwing intensity and adjust as needed
- •Watch for fatigue and overexcitement
- •Ensure eliminated players move to safe areas
Emergency Procedures
Stop play immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, complete incident reporting if required