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Lesson 5 - Jab Tackle and Game Application

From Control to Team Play

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Year 4

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Hockey

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Big Question

How can mastering the jab tackle give us an advantage in hockey games?

Learning Objectives

To perform a jab tackle with correct technique and timing
To apply advantage rule understanding in game situations
To evaluate peers' performance using technical hockey language

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate jab tackle technique
Students will show understanding of advantage rule application
Students will use correct technical vocabulary when assessing others

Equipment & Resources Required

Hockey sticks

1 per student (30)

Check sticks are appropriate height for each student

Alternative: Lightweight plastic unihoc sticks for safety

Hockey balls

1 per student (30)

Distribute around activity areas

Alternative: Tennis balls for beginners

Dish Cones

Various colours for different activities

Alternative: Spot markers or corner flags

Coloured Bibs

For team identification in games

Alternative: Coloured bands or t-shirts

Small Goal

Position at ends of playing areas

Alternative: Cone goals or target areas

Game Balls

For Cannonball Run activity

Alternative: Soft foam balls

Stopwatch

For timing game intervals

Alternative: Smartphone timer

Key Vocabulary

Jab tackle

A quick forward thrust of the stick to dislodge the ball from an opponent

Advantage

Allowing play to continue when a foul benefits the fouled team

Dislodge

To knock or move the ball away from an opponent's stick

Shielding

Using body position to protect the ball from opponents

Technical language

Specific hockey terms used to describe skills and techniques

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic stick handling and dribbling
Understanding of defensive positioning
Simple tackling attempts

Current Skills

Jab tackle technique
Advantage rule application
Peer evaluation skills

Next Steps

Advanced tackling variations
Complex game strategies
Leadership in peer coaching

Milestone Indicators

Consistent jab tackle success rate

Appropriate advantage decisions

Quality technical language use

Key Teaching Points

Jab tackle requires left foot forward and left hand leading the movement
Timing is crucial - only tackle when ball is clear of opponent's stick
Advantage rule distinguishes between accidental and deliberate foot contact
Technical language improves quality of peer assessment and feedback
Game application is where skills are truly tested and developed
Self-assessment accuracy develops through honest reflection
Safety awareness must be maintained throughout all hockey activities

Common Misconceptions

Using wrong foot position in jab tackle - teach left foot forward consistently
Thinking all foot contact stops play - explain advantage rule clearly
Believing harder tackles are better - emphasise technique over force
Assuming fast movement equals good control - teach controlled dribbling
Thinking assessment is about being critical - model positive, constructive feedback

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries and rules, regular positive feedback

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, step-by-step skill breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet spaces available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, use of hand signals

physical disability

Adapted equipment (larger/lighter balls), modified jab tackle technique, inclusive game formats

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, peer assessment communication, following complex instructions

Maths

Scoring systems in Battleships, timing intervals, spatial awareness in circuit rotations

Science

Forces in jab tackle movement, reaction time concepts, momentum in ball control

PSHE

Teamwork in games, honest self-assessment, providing constructive feedback to others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between circuit stations and game areas for optimal supervision

Observation Focus

Jab tackle technique, game application of skills, quality of peer assessment

Intervention Points

Step in if poor technique risks injury, support struggling students, manage competitive intensity

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, slow demonstrations for jab tackle, emphasise safety in all techniques, model positive peer assessment language

Verbal Cues

•'Left foot forward for jab tackle!'
•'Wait for the right moment!'
•'Use technical words to help your teammate!'
•'Show me controlled dribbling!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 30m x 40m for multiple activities

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris, adequate grip for hockey movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check hockey sticks for damage and appropriate length
•Ensure balls are suitable condition and correct type
•Verify goals are stable and safe
•Use lightweight sticks where possible for safety

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick contact injuries
•Collision during fast movement
•Ball strikes to body
•Overexertion in competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear stick handling safety rules enforced
•Adequate spacing between activity areas
•Progressive skill building before game application
•Use of lightweight equipment where appropriate
•Clear rules about stick contact and body positioning

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Monitor jab tackle practice for safety
•Watch game intensity and competitive behaviour
•Check equipment handling throughout lesson

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, seek medical attention if required