Lesson 1 - Passing Under Pressure
Strategic Passing & Tournament Prep
•Year 4
•Netball
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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
Distributed around activity areas for quick access
Alternative: Size 4 footballs, basketballs
Available for team identification and defender activity
Alternative: Coloured bands, team shirts
Mark boundaries and activity areas clearly
Alternative: Markers, spots
Central reference points for circle activities
Alternative: Small cones, hoops
Key Vocabulary
A pass where the ball hits the ground once before reaching the receiver
A direct pass from chest level to the receiver's chest
A one-handed pass thrown from shoulder height, similar to a shot
A two-handed pass thrown from above and behind the head
Rotating on one foot (landing foot) while keeping the other foot free to move
In netball, you must pass or shoot within 3 seconds of receiving the ball
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
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