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Lesson 1 - Passing Under Pressure

Strategic Passing & Tournament Prep

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Year 4

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Netball

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Big Question

How can we send a netball accurately when defenders are trying to intercept our passes?

Learning Objectives

To send a netball accurately using four different passing techniques
To pass a netball under defensive pressure within the 3-second rule
To demonstrate effective attacking and defending strategies in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully execute bounce, chest, shoulder and overhead passes with improving accuracy
Students will make quick passing decisions under pressure while following netball rules
Students will work cooperatively in attack and defence showing tactical awareness

Equipment & Resources Required

Netball

15 (1 per 2 students)

Distributed around activity areas for quick access

Alternative: Size 4 footballs, basketballs

Coloured Bibs

15 (mixed colours)

Available for team identification and defender activity

Alternative: Coloured bands, team shirts

Cones

Mark boundaries and activity areas clearly

Alternative: Markers, spots

Mats

Central reference points for circle activities

Alternative: Small cones, hoops

Key Vocabulary

Bounce pass

A pass where the ball hits the ground once before reaching the receiver

Chest pass

A direct pass from chest level to the receiver's chest

Shoulder pass

A one-handed pass thrown from shoulder height, similar to a shot

Overhead pass

A two-handed pass thrown from above and behind the head

Pivot

Rotating on one foot (landing foot) while keeping the other foot free to move

3-second rule

In netball, you must pass or shoot within 3 seconds of receiving the ball

Intercept

To catch or deflect a pass intended for the opposition

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and catching skills
Understanding of personal space and following instructions
Simple throwing and catching with a partner

Current Skills

Four netball passing techniques (bounce, chest, shoulder, overhead)
Passing under defensive pressure within time limits
Basic attacking and defending principles
Pivoting technique and footwork

Next Steps

Advanced netball tactics and team formations
Shooting techniques and court positioning
Game-specific roles and responsibilities

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate passing over 5+ metres

Quick decision-making under pressure

Effective use of pivoting in game situations

Understanding of when to use different pass types

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise stepping into passes for power and accuracy
Reinforce the 3-second rule consistently throughout activities
Highlight the importance of communication in team situations
Ensure students understand when to use each pass type tactically
Focus on pivoting technique as foundation for advanced netball skills
Celebrate both individual skill development and team cooperation
Connect passing skills to real netball game situations

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking they can move with the ball like in football - emphasise static position and pivoting only
Believing harder throws are always better - stress accuracy and appropriate power for distance
Assuming all passes should be chest passes - teach situational pass selection
Thinking pivoting means moving both feet - clarify landing foot must stay planted
Expecting immediate success with complex skills - emphasise progressive learning and practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, regular movement breaks, clear boundaries and expectations, positive reinforcement for focus

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time for technique, larger equipment to aid success, step-by-step technique breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson activities, established routines for transitions, quiet zone available if needed, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use bright coloured netballs, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, establish buddy system for guidance, use tactile markers for positions

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, establish hand signals for game rules, ensure student can see teacher's face during instructions

physical disability

Seated versions of passing activities, modified throwing distances, adapted equipment such as larger or lighter balls, peer support for mobility

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through netball terminology, following complex instructions, verbal communication during team activities

Maths

Counting passes accurately, measuring distances for passing challenges, calculating success rates and statistics

Science

Understanding forces and trajectories in different pass types, biomechanics of throwing actions, energy transfer in ball movement

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of directions and angles for passing, map reading skills through court positioning

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation skills, resilience when facing challenges, communication and leadership development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during demonstrations, perimeter circulation during activities for optimal student observation

Observation Focus

Watch for correct passing technique, legal footwork during pivoting, effective communication and fair play

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for safety concerns, provide technique correction during practice phases, mediate disputes during games

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Use exaggerated movements for technique clarity, show both correct and incorrect examples, use students as demonstration partners when appropriate

Verbal Cues

•'Elbows out for power!'
•'Step into your pass!'
•'Pivot foot stays down!'
•'Choose your pass wisely!'
•'Communicate with your team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 30m, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris, adequate grip for pivoting movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check netballs are properly inflated and not damaged
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Bibs securely fastened but easily removable

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impact injuries from powerful throws
•Collisions between students during defending activities
•Slips and falls during pivoting and quick movements
•Overexertion during distance challenges

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between all activities
•Adequate spacing between pairs and groups maintained
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Regular hydration breaks during intense activities
•Clear rules about appropriate ball throwing power

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all activity areas
•Monitor high-activity game situations closely
•Check technique to prevent injury during pivoting
•Ensure fair play and appropriate physical contact

Emergency Procedures

STOP signal, assess situation, appropriate first aid response, clear evacuation routes maintained