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Lesson 4 - Shooting & Scoring

Lacrosse Skills & Tactics

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Year 4

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Lacrosse

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Big Question

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

Lacrosse sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks for damage before lesson, ensure appropriate size for Year 4

Alternative: Hockey sticks or tennis rackets for adapted version

Lacrosse Balls

2 per goal (12 total)

Distribute around goal areas, have extras available for continuous practice

Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls for safety

Goals

6 goals or 12 cones

Set up goals 1.5m wide, clearly mark goal face with cones if no nets available

Alternative: Netball posts, witches hats, or marked areas

Hoops

16 (4 per corner)

Place in corners of playing areas, ensure 2 different colours per area

Alternative: Coloured cones, mats, or chalk circles

Team bibs

8 per group

Arrange in clock face formation around each goal area

Alternative: Bibs with numbers, floor markers

Bibs

15 (2 colours)

Distinguish teams clearly for mini-games, ensure visibility

Alternative: Coloured bands, team markers

Key Vocabulary

Crease

The protected area around the goal that only goalkeepers can enter

Butt end

The bottom end of the lacrosse stick that should face the target when shooting

Follow through

Continuing the shooting motion after releasing the ball for accuracy and power

Shooting angle

The position relative to the goal that gives the best chance of scoring

Goal face

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

Consistent use of correct stick positioning

Accurate shots from various angles within shooting range

Confident goal attempts during competitive play

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