Lesson 5 - Jab Tackle and Game Application
From Control to Team Play
•Year 4
•Hockey
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Check sticks are appropriate height for each student
Alternative: Lightweight plastic unihoc sticks for safety
Distribute around activity areas
Alternative: Tennis balls for beginners
Various colours for different activities
Alternative: Spot markers or corner flags
For team identification in games
Alternative: Coloured bands or t-shirts
Position at ends of playing areas
Alternative: Cone goals or target areas
For Cannonball Run activity
Alternative: Soft foam balls
For timing game intervals
Alternative: Smartphone timer
Key Vocabulary
A quick forward thrust of the stick to dislodge the ball from an opponent
Allowing play to continue when a foul benefits the fouled team
To knock or move the ball away from an opponent's stick
Using body position to protect the ball from opponents
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
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