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Lesson 7 - Blocking with the Ball

Tactical Awareness Skills

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Year 4

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Dodgeball

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50 min

Big Question

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

Dodgeball

Distributed evenly around playing area perimeter

Alternative: Foam balls, playground balls for younger students

Cones

Mark court boundaries and neutral zones clearly

Alternative: Markers, spots for court boundaries

Team bibs

6 sets

Different colours for teams and king/queen identification

Alternative: Coloured bibs, team identifiers

Key Vocabulary

Blocking

Using one ball to deflect or stop another ball from hitting you

Grip

How tightly and securely you hold the ball with your hands

Deflection

Pushing an incoming ball away from its target path

Ready position

Balanced stance with knees bent, ready to move in any direction

King/Queen

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

Consistent two-handed grip maintained during blocking

Successful deflection of incoming balls without dropping blocker ball

Strategic movement to protect teammates and key players

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