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Lesson 2 - Passing & Footwork

Foundations & High 5 Skills

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Year 4

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Netball

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Big Question

How can we use smart passing and movement to keep possession whilst following netball's footwork rules?

Learning Objectives

To develop accurate passing and intelligent movement patterns
To understand and apply netball footwork and held ball rules consistently
To create and use space effectively in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled passing and catching with increasing accuracy
Students will apply footwork rules correctly during movement and gameplay
Students will identify successful teamwork strategies and explain netball rules

Equipment & Resources Required

Netball

7.5 (1 per group of 4 students)

Check balls are properly inflated - should bounce to waist height when dropped from shoulder height

Alternative: Size 4 footballs, playground balls (slightly deflated for easier catching)

Cones

8-10 for identifying teams

Use bright colours for clear visibility, ensure cones are stable and won't tip easily

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, chalk lines on playground

High 5 Netball Rules Document

1 for teacher reference

Have rules easily accessible for quick reference during lesson

Alternative: Simplified rule cards, visual rule posters

Key Vocabulary

Footwork

The netball rule that prevents you from lifting your landing foot and placing it back down

Landing foot

The first foot that touches the ground when you catch the ball or stop moving

Pivot

Turning around on your landing foot while keeping that foot in contact with the ground

Held ball

A rule violation when a player holds the ball for more than 3 seconds without releasing it

Chest pass

A pass thrown from chest height using both hands, aimed at teammate's chest

Space

An empty area on the court where a player can move to receive a pass or create opportunities

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills from Year 3
Understanding of personal space and spatial awareness
Simple passing games and turn-taking

Current Skills

Netball-specific passing techniques (chest pass)
Footwork rule application and pivoting
Strategic movement into space
Game understanding and rule application

Next Steps

Introduction to positional play and court areas
More complex passing techniques (shoulder pass, bounce pass)
Defensive skills and interception techniques
Small-sided netball games with full rules

Milestone Indicators

Consistent application of footwork rule during movement

Accurate passing under pressure

Effective communication during team activities

Understanding of space creation and utilisation

Key Teaching Points

Footwork rule is fundamental - landing foot must stay planted until ball is released
Chest pass technique: start at chest, step forward, push with both hands, aim for partner's chest
Movement into space is key to successful netball - always be looking for gaps
Communication is essential - call 'here' when ready to receive the ball
Honesty in rule application builds character and improves game understanding
Pivoting opens up passing opportunities - master this skill for tactical advantage
Progressive challenge keeps all students engaged and developing skills

Common Misconceptions

Students think they can pick up and replace the landing foot as long as they're quick
Belief that throwing harder makes passes more accurate (technique is more important)
Assumption that only fast players can be effective in netball (positioning and intelligence matter more)
Thinking that rules don't matter in practice games (consistent application builds habits)
Misconception that pivoting means taking steps around (it's rotating on one planted foot)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with regular movement, clear boundaries marked, frequent positive feedback, simple rule reminders

dyspraxia

Larger, softer balls for easier catching, reduced complexity in movement patterns, extra practice time for skill development, breaking skills into smaller steps

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of lesson progression, quiet zones available for breaks, predictable activity transitions

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls, verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for movement, clear verbal cues for all instructions

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear hand signals, written rule cards available, use of visual cues for starts and stops

physical disability

Seated netball variations, modified equipment sizes, adapted distances for throwing, wheelchair accessible game modifications

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Clear communication during games, following and giving instructions, explaining rules to others

Maths

Counting passes, measuring distances for group setup, timing activities, understanding angles during pivoting

Science

Forces in throwing and catching, balance and centre of gravity during pivoting, reaction times in gameplay

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, honesty in rule application, resilience when facing challenges, respect for opponents and teammates

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Circulate between groups during practice, central position during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct footwork application, passing accuracy, and positive team interaction

Intervention Points

Step in if rules consistently broken, safety concerns arise, or groups need additional support

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clarity, involve students in demonstrations when appropriate, repeat key points multiple times

Verbal Cues

•'One, two!' for landing reinforcement
•'Step and push!' for chest pass reminder
•'Find the space!' for movement encouragement
•'Stick that landing foot!' for pivot correction

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 20m area, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris, suitable for running and stopping

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check netballs are properly inflated and not damaged
•Ensure cones are stable and clearly visible
•Verify no sharp edges on any equipment

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during movement activities
•Ball impact injuries to face or body
•Trips and falls during pivoting or rapid direction changes
•Finger injuries during catching

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all activities
•Adequate spacing between groups during practice
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Emphasis on controlled movement rather than speed
•Proper catching technique taught to protect fingers

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Monitor high-activity areas during games
•Watch for signs of fatigue affecting safety
•Ensure non-contact defensive play during 3v1

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school procedures as needed