Lesson 2 - Passing & Footwork
Foundations & High 5 Skills
•Year 4
•Netball
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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
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)
Use bright colours for clear visibility, ensure cones are stable and won't tip easily
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, chalk lines on playground
Have rules easily accessible for quick reference during lesson
Alternative: Simplified rule cards, visual rule posters
Key Vocabulary
The netball rule that prevents you from lifting your landing foot and placing it back down
The first foot that touches the ground when you catch the ball or stop moving
Turning around on your landing foot while keeping that foot in contact with the ground
A rule violation when a player holds the ball for more than 3 seconds without releasing it
A pass thrown from chest height using both hands, aimed at teammate's chest
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
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