Lesson 5 - Receive and Turn into Space
Lacrosse Skills & Tactics
•Year 4
•Lacrosse
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use space effectively to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities in lacrosse?
Learning Objectives
- To receive the ball and turn effectively into available space
- To change direction and speed whilst running with the ball under control
- To apply receiving and turning skills in small-sided game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will consistently receive the ball and identify available space before turning
- Students will demonstrate controlled changes of direction and speed whilst carrying the ball
- Students will make appropriate decisions about when to shoot, pass, or run with the ball in game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Check stick heads are secure and no loose strings
Alternative: Hockey sticks or tennis rackets for modified version
Use softer balls for younger or less experienced students
Alternative: Tennis balls or soft lacrosse balls for safety
Use different colours for different stations and lines
Alternative: Markers, bibs, or natural landmarks
Ensure goals are stable and appropriate height
Alternative: Cones 2 metres apart, wall targets, or painted markings
Clear colour distinction for team identification
Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts or arm bands
Key Vocabulary
To catch and control the ball using the lacrosse stick
To change direction towards an area free from opponents after receiving the ball
The semi-circular area around the goal where only the goalkeeper can enter
Understanding where you are in relation to teammates, opponents, and available space
A movement to evade or get past a defender whilst maintaining ball control
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic stick handling and ball control
- Understanding of lacrosse playing area and goals
- Experience with passing and catching in stationary positions
Current Skills
- Receiving the ball whilst moving
- Turning into space with the ball
- Changing direction and speed during play
- Making tactical decisions in game situations
Next Steps
- Receiving under defensive pressure
- Advanced turning techniques (pivot turns, roll dodges)
- Creating space through off-the-ball movement
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Spatial awareness is crucial - teach students to check space before receiving the ball
- Soft hands technique for receiving prevents ball bouncing off the stick
- The sequence is always: Look (for space) - Receive (with control) - Turn (into space)
- In games, emphasise the three options: shoot, pass, or run with the ball
- Safety is paramount - no stick contact and controlled movement at all times
- Progressive skill building from static to dynamic to game application
- Positive reinforcement builds confidence for skill development under pressure
Common Misconceptions
- Students think they must always pass back to where the ball came from - teach them to turn into space instead
- Belief that faster movement always means better performance - emphasise control over speed
- Misconception that physical contact with sticks is part of lacrosse - reinforce non-contact rules
- Thinking spatial awareness is only about looking around - teach that it includes anticipation and planning ahead
- Assumption that receiving is just catching - emphasise the importance of body positioning and preparation for the turn
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide regular movement breaks, clear and simple instructions, immediate positive feedback for good focus
dyspraxia
- Use larger, softer equipment, break down skills into smaller steps, provide additional practice time, focus on gross motor movements before fine motor control
autism spectrum
- Provide clear, structured routines for each activity, visual timetable of lesson progression, quiet space available if needed, advance notice of transitions
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of spatial layout, buddy system for guidance, tactile markers for boundaries
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals alongside verbal instructions, written instruction cards available, clear visual demonstrations, ensure face-to-face communication
physical disability
- Adapt stick length and weight as needed, allow seated participation where appropriate, modify distances and targets, focus on achievable personal goals
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Number recognition and grouping during warm-up, measuring distances between stations, calculating scores and comparing team performance
Science
Understanding forces in ball movement, balance and momentum during turning movements, effects of exercise on heart rate and breathing
Geography
Spatial awareness and directional language, mapping movement patterns around the field, understanding of position and location
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when learning new skills, communication and leadership development, respect for rules and others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position at edge of activity area with clear sight lines to all students, move actively between stations and games
Observation Focus
Watch for spatial awareness development, receiving technique quality, and safe stick handling throughout
Intervention Points
Step in immediately for unsafe stick use, provide technique guidance when students struggle, facilitate discussions during reflection
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements for technique demonstration, involve confident students in demonstrations, repeat key teaching points frequently
Verbal Cues
- •'Head on a swivel - check your space!'
- •'Soft hands to receive!'
- •'Turn into the space you've found!'
- •'Three options - shoot, pass, or run!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 40m x 30m area for full lesson, smaller spaces possible with reduced numbers
Surface Check
Flat, even surface free from holes, debris, or hazardous materials
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all lacrosse stick heads are securely attached
- •Inspect for loose strings or damaged mesh
- •Ensure balls are in good condition without cracks
- •Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Stick contact between players
- •Ball strikes to head or body
- •Collisions during dynamic movement
- •Slips and falls on unsuitable surfaces
Risk Mitigation
- •Strict no-stick-contact rule enforced throughout
- •Use of softer lacrosse balls for younger players
- •Clear boundaries and adequate spacing between activities
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic situations
- •Constant emphasis on spatial awareness and safe movement
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups during station work
- •Circulate actively during practice phases
- •Monitor stick handling technique continuously
- •Watch for fatigue affecting safe participation
Emergency Procedures
Stop signal established (whistle + raised hand), first aid kit accessible, clear access routes for emergency services, incident reporting procedures known