Lesson 7 - Open Stick Tackle Techniques
Foundation Skills & Tactics
•Year 4
•Hockey
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
Sign up free to access 3 complete units per month, unlimited activity library, and your personal locker.
What's included
- Complete activity instructions & timing
- Teaching tips & differentiation strategies
- Assessment guidance & success criteria
- Downloadable lessons & units
How can we effectively defend without fouling to prevent the attacking team from scoring?
Learning Objectives
- To master the open stick (block) tackle technique with proper timing and positioning
- To apply defensive tactics effectively in small-sided games
- To evaluate tackle success and identify areas for improvement
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct open stick tackle technique with wide grip and balanced stance
- Students will successfully defend against attackers in 1v1 and 2v2 situations
- Students will reflect on their defensive performance and suggest improvements
Equipment & Resources Required
Check stick heads are secure and appropriate length for students
Alternative: Unihoc sticks, floor hockey sticks
Softer option for safety, easier to control than hockey balls
Alternative: Foam balls, hockey balls for advanced groups
Use for goal markers and area boundaries
Alternative: Markers, spot markers
Key Vocabulary
A defensive technique where the stick is placed as a barrier to block the attacker's path
Using the hockey stick to create a wall that prevents the ball from passing
A low, stable position with feet shoulder-width apart and knees bent
Holding the hockey stick with hands spread apart for better control
Standing between the attacker and the goal to prevent scoring opportunities
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic hockey stick grip and ball control
- Understanding of attacking vs defending roles
- Basic spatial awareness and movement
Current Skills
- Open stick (block) tackle technique
- Defensive positioning and timing
- 1v1 and 2v2 defensive play
Next Steps
- Advanced tackling techniques (jab tackle)
- Team defensive strategies
- Transition from defence to attack
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Wide grip on hockey stick provides better control and stability during tackles
- Timing is crucial - placing stick too early allows attacker to go around defender
- Maintain low, balanced stance throughout tackle attempt for stability
- Stay in line with attacker to force them into less dangerous areas
- Quick recovery after tackle attempts is essential for continued defensive play
- Communication with teammates improves defensive coordination
- Practice technique slowly before applying at match pace
Common Misconceptions
- Students often think tackling means diving in quickly - emphasise patience and timing
- Many believe a strong tackle requires force - focus on positioning and technique instead
- Some think they can't tackle if they're smaller - show how technique beats size
- Students may think failed tackles are always bad - explain learning value of attempts
- Common belief that defending is less important than attacking - emphasise defensive skills value
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break skills into smaller steps, provide frequent movement breaks, use clear boundaries and simple rules
dyspraxia
- Extra time for technique practice, break down movements into smaller components, provide physical support if needed
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured equipment, provide clear verbal descriptions of techniques, assign sighted partner for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations extensively, hand signals for key instructions, written technique cards available
physical disability
- Adapt tackle technique for seated positions, use larger lighter balls, modify playing areas as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances for goals and playing areas, timing activities and games, calculating success rates
Science
Understanding forces and momentum in tackle situations, studying balance and centre of gravity
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of area and boundaries
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, fair play and respect for opponents
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position during demonstrations, move between groups during practice to provide individual feedback
Observation Focus
Watch for correct grip, timing of tackle attempts, and safe play. Look for students who need additional support or challenge
Intervention Points
Step in if students become frustrated, if technique breaks down, or if safety concerns arise. Provide immediate feedback for dangerous play
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate tackle technique slowly first, then at match pace. Use students as examples when they show good technique. Repeat demonstrations as needed throughout lesson
Verbal Cues
- •'Wide grip for control!'
- •'Wait for the right moment!'
- •'Stay low and balanced!'
- •'Recover quickly after your tackle!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m for multiple small-sided games and safe movement
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from debris. Check for any holes or uneven areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all hockey sticks for secure heads and no splinters
- •Ensure tennis balls are in good condition
- •Verify cones have no sharp edges or cracks
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Stick collisions during tackling
- •Trips and falls during quick direction changes
- •Ball strikes to face or body
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise controlled pace throughout lesson
- •Maintain safe distances during practice
- •Clear boundaries to prevent collisions with other groups
- •Constant supervision during tackle practice
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups
- •Monitor tackle technique for safety
- •Watch for over-competitive behaviour
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required