Lesson 3 - Passing and Moving to Goal
Foundations & High 5 Skills
•Year 4
•Netball
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How can we work together as a team to move the ball effectively towards our goal whilst following netball rules?
Learning Objectives
- To develop accurate passing techniques using bounce, chest and shoulder passes
- To understand and apply the footwork rule in game situations
- To demonstrate effective movement into space to support team play
Key Outcomes
- Students will consistently apply the footwork rule during passing activities
- Students will select appropriate passing techniques based on distance and game situation
- Students will demonstrate tactical awareness by moving into space to receive passes
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around court perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Size 4 footballs, playground balls
5 cones scattered for warm-up, 3 in line at 3m, 4m, 6m intervals
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, chalk marks
Spread evenly around playing area at varying distances
Alternative: Buckets, chalk circles, rope circles
Keep ready for defender identification in games
Alternative: Bibs, different coloured tops
Key Vocabulary
Once you catch the ball, you cannot move your landing foot - you can only pivot on it
A pass where the ball bounces once on the ground before reaching your partner
A direct pass from chest height to your partner's chest
A one-handed pass thrown from shoulder height for longer distances
Running to an area away from defenders where you can receive a pass
When your team has the ball and is trying to score
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling skills
- Understanding of catching with two hands
- Awareness of working with a partner
Current Skills
- Three types of netball passes (bounce, chest, shoulder)
- Footwork rule application
- Moving into space without the ball
- Basic attacking strategies
Next Steps
- Defending techniques and interception
- Positional play in netball
- Advanced attacking patterns
- Shooting skills and goal circle work
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Footwork rule is fundamental - landing foot cannot move once ball is caught
- Pass selection depends on distance and situation - bounce (3m), chest (4m), shoulder (6m)
- Communication between partners is essential for successful attacking play
- Moving into space without the ball is as important as skilled passing
- Defenders should intercept passes, not block players - maintain fair play
- Technique should be prioritised over speed in all passing activities
- Safety through controlled passing and awareness of others' positions
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking you can move freely once you have the ball - clarify footwork rule with frequent demonstrations
- Believing all passes should be thrown with maximum power - emphasise control and accuracy
- Assuming the closest pass is always best - teach appropriate pass selection for different distances
- Thinking defenders should block players rather than intercept passes - clarify defensive rules
- Believing communication isn't necessary with a regular partner - stress ongoing communication importance
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries and structure, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement for focus
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified movement patterns, additional practice time, clear step-by-step instructions
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available if overwhelmed, consistent rules and expectations
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written rule cards available
physical disability
- Adapted passing from seated position, modified distances, larger or softer balls, wheelchair accessible court areas
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting passes accurately, measuring distances for different pass types, calculating scores and success rates
Science
Understanding forces in passing, trajectory and angles, reaction times in catching and defending
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of directions and movement patterns on court
PSHE
Teamwork and communication skills, resilience when facing challenges, respect for rules and opponents
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter for optimal viewing, position near less confident students during skill practice
Observation Focus
Watch for correct footwork rule application, passing technique accuracy, and safe defensive play
Intervention Points
Step in immediately for footwork violations, unsafe defensive contact, or poor technique patterns
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for visibility, demonstrate common mistakes as well as correct technique, involve confident students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Land and stick!' for footwork rule
- •'Step and push!' for passing technique
- •'Find space!' for movement activities
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Half netball court minimum (15m x 15m), clear of obstacles and hazards
Surface Check
Dry, even surface with good grip, free from debris or wet patches
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check netballs are correctly inflated and in good condition
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify hoops are stable and positioned safely
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impacts from poor catches or wild throws
- •Collisions during movement activities
- •Slips during quick direction changes
- •Contact during defensive activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for all activities
- •Adequate spacing maintained between pairs and groups
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
- •Emphasis on controlled passes rather than power
- •Strict rules about defensive contact levels
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all students
- •Monitor high-activity areas during movement games
- •Watch for fatigue affecting technique and safety
- •Ensure defensive activities remain non-contact
Emergency Procedures
Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear procedures for injury management