Lesson 4 - Shooting & Scoring
Lacrosse Skills & Tactics
•Year 4
•Lacrosse
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we combine accuracy, power and timing to score goals effectively in lacrosse?
Learning Objectives
- To develop accurate shooting technique over short distances
- To apply correct stick positioning and body mechanics for power and accuracy
- To demonstrate goal scoring skills in game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will consistently shoot with correct stick technique from close range
- Students will demonstrate understanding of shooting angles and positioning
- Students will apply shooting skills effectively during mini-game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Check all sticks for damage before lesson, ensure appropriate size for Year 4
Alternative: Hockey sticks or tennis rackets for adapted version
Distribute around goal areas, have extras available for continuous practice
Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls for safety
Set up goals 1.5m wide, clearly mark goal face with cones if no nets available
Alternative: Netball posts, witches hats, or marked areas
Place in corners of playing areas, ensure 2 different colours per area
Alternative: Coloured cones, mats, or chalk circles
Arrange in clock face formation around each goal area
Alternative: Bibs with numbers, floor markers
Distinguish teams clearly for mini-games, ensure visibility
Alternative: Coloured bands, team markers
Key Vocabulary
The protected area around the goal that only goalkeepers can enter
The bottom end of the lacrosse stick that should face the target when shooting
Continuing the shooting motion after releasing the ball for accuracy and power
The position relative to the goal that gives the best chance of scoring
The front opening of the goal where shots must pass through to score
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic stick holding and ball control from previous lessons
- Understanding of lacrosse rules and crease boundaries
- Experience with passing and catching skills
Current Skills
- Shooting technique with correct stick positioning
- Understanding shooting angles and goal approach
- Applying shooting skills under pressure in games
Next Steps
- Advanced shooting techniques from longer distances
- Shooting whilst moving at speed
- Defensive positioning and goal keeping skills
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Butt end of stick always faces the target when shooting
- Step forward with opposite foot for power and balance
- Safety rule: never shoot when someone is directly between you and goal
- Follow through completely with stick head pointing at target
- Accuracy more important than power for successful goal scoring
- Game rules: no stick contact, shoot outside crease, goals through front only
- Good sportsmanship and teamwork essential in competitive situations
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking hockey-style shooting technique will work for lacrosse
- Believing power is more important than accuracy for scoring
- Not understanding why certain shooting positions are unsafe
- Assuming you can score from behind the goal
- Thinking stick contact is allowed like in some other sports
- Believing technique doesn't matter in game situations
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries and rules, positive reinforcement for focus and effort
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for coordination, simplified movement patterns, larger equipment for easier handling
autism spectrum
- Clear routines and expectations, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide clear verbal descriptions of positions, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations emphasised, written instruction cards available, hand signals for key concepts
physical disability
- Modified stick grip supports, seated shooting options, adjusted distances and targets as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Angles and geometry when discussing shooting positions, counting goals and timing games, measuring distances and areas
Science
Forces and motion in ball flight, biomechanics of efficient movement, understanding trajectory and accuracy
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning on field, understanding directions and mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, managing emotions in competitive situations, respect for rules and fair play
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between groups during activities, stand where all students can see demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for correct technique, safety compliance, and engagement levels
Intervention Points
Step in if safety rules ignored, provide individual technique support, resolve conflicts
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements for technique, involve students in safety demonstrations, provide positive examples
Verbal Cues
- •'Butt end to target!'
- •'Step and follow through!'
- •'Check it's safe before shooting!'
- •'Great technique, focus on accuracy!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m for games, clear run-off areas around goals
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from holes or hazards, suitable for running
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all lacrosse sticks for cracks or damage before use
- •Ensure balls are appropriate weight and not too hard
- •Verify goals are stable and securely positioned
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to face or body
- •Stick contact between players
- •Collisions around goal areas
- •Trips and falls during running
Risk Mitigation
- •Enforce no shooting when player between shooter and goal
- •No stick checking or contact allowed
- •Clear boundaries and running lanes established
- •Appropriate supervision ratios maintained
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all shooting activities
- •Monitor high-activity areas around goals closely
- •Ensure immediate response to any safety concerns
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess any injuries, apply first aid knowledge, seek additional help if needed