Lesson 3 - Playing in Thirds & Attacking
Tactics & Positional Play
•Year 4
•Netball
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How can we use the court thirds effectively to build a strong attacking play towards the goal?
Learning Objectives
- To understand and define the roles of Goal Attack and Centre in building attacking play
- To demonstrate effective passing and movement within appropriate court thirds
- To apply knowledge of court positions and areas during game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will confidently work together to build attacking plays using court thirds
- Students will demonstrate understanding of where GA and Centre can play on court
- Students will explain the importance of thirds in netball positioning and play
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around court perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Size 4 footballs, basketballs for younger students
Ensure all lines are clearly visible, add cone markers if needed
Alternative: Cones to mark thirds and goal circles
Position at regulation height (3.05m) or appropriate height for Year 4
Alternative: Basketball hoops, large target hoops on stands
Different colours for different positions or teams
Alternative: Team bands, coloured shirts
Use to mark river boundaries and practice areas
Alternative: Markers, chalk for lines
Key Vocabulary
The three equal sections of a netball court that determine where different positions can play
A playing position that can move in the attacking third and centre third to help build play and score goals
The only position allowed in all three thirds of the court, responsible for linking defence and attack
To catch or deflect the ball when the opposing team is trying to pass
Working the ball through the court thirds towards the goal using passing and movement
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic passing and catching skills
- Understanding of netball court layout
- Knowledge of some netball positions
Current Skills
- Court positioning within thirds
- Building attacking play with GA and Centre
- Understanding defensive interception
Next Steps
- Advanced shooting techniques
- Complex team strategies
- Full 7-a-side game understanding
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Goal Attack can play in attacking third and centre third only
- Centre is the only position that can play in all three thirds
- Building an attack means working the ball forward through the thirds
- Quick, accurate passing helps maintain possession and create opportunities
- Communication between teammates is essential for effective play
- Court positioning rules exist to create balanced, tactical gameplay
- Defensive positioning is about anticipation, not just chasing the ball
Common Misconceptions
- Goal Attack can play anywhere on court like Centre
- It's always better to pass backwards to maintain possession
- Defenders should always chase the ball rather than position strategically
- Thirds are just arbitrary divisions with no tactical importance
- Only the person with the ball needs to move and make decisions
- Netball is just about getting the ball to the shooter as quickly as possible
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries, use positive reinforcement frequently
dyspraxia
- Use larger equipment, reduce complexity of movement patterns, provide extra practice time, visual cues for positioning
autism spectrum
- Provide clear visual schedule, quiet zones available, consistent routines, advance warning of changes
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and bibs, provide verbal descriptions of court layout, buddy system for movement
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals and demonstrations, written position cards, clear visual boundaries
physical disability
- Modify court size, use larger/lighter balls, allow seated play options, adjust game rules as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting thirds, fractions of the court, measuring distances between players, calculating time for activities
Science
Forces in passing, trajectory of ball flight, body systems during exercise, physics of ball bounce
Geography
Spatial awareness, directions on court, mapping movement patterns, understanding of areas and boundaries
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills, resilience when facing challenges, respect for rules and others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central court position allowing oversight of all groups, move between activities to provide individual feedback
Observation Focus
Watch for correct positioning, accurate passing, effective communication, and safe play
Intervention Points
Step in when rules are forgotten, technique needs correction, or unsafe play occurs
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility. Model both correct and incorrect examples for contrast. Include students in demonstrations when appropriate.
Verbal Cues
- •'Quick pass!'
- •'Find space!'
- •'Where can you play?'
- •'Work together!'
- •'Build the play!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Half or full netball court (minimum 20m x 15m), clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate footwear worn
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Netballs inflated to correct pressure
- •Goal posts stable and at appropriate height
- •Bibs in good condition without sharp edges
- •Cones positioned safely away from main activity areas
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during movement activities
- •Ball impacts during passing drills
- •Trips and falls on court surface
- •Overexertion during continuous game play
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for all activities
- •Controlled contact rules for defensive play
- •Regular rest periods during intense activities
- •Proper warm-up and cool-down procedures
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all activity areas
- •Monitor game intensity and rotate players regularly
- •Watch for fatigue and inappropriate contact
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, follow school procedures