Lesson 2 - Shooting Techniques & Tactics
Tactics & Positional Play
•Year 4
•Netball
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How can we work as a team to create and convert shooting opportunities in netball?
Learning Objectives
- Develop basic shooting technique using correct body position and ball release
- Apply positional understanding in attacking team play
- Demonstrate effective teamwork to create scoring opportunities
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved shooting accuracy using taught technique
- Students will show understanding of High 5 netball positions and movement areas
- Students will work effectively in teams to move the ball into shooting positions
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed at activity stations around the area
Alternative: Size 4 balls, playground balls for younger students
Positioned at corners and sides of activity area
Alternative: Basketball hoops, target hoops on poles
Used for target practice and ground targets
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, cones in circles
Mark target spots at various heights
Alternative: Large target boards, fence panels
Mark court areas and activity boundaries
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, chalk marks
Distinguish between positions and teams
Alternative: Coloured bands, team markers
Visual reference for position areas
Alternative: Hand-drawn diagrams, laminated sheets
Key Vocabulary
Position that can move in the centre third and goal third, allowed to shoot
Position restricted to goal third only, primary shooting role
Position that can move in all thirds except goal circles, links play
Defensive position covering centre third and defensive goal third
Defensive position restricted to goal third, primary defender
Method of propelling ball towards goal using correct body mechanics
Designated zones where specific positions are allowed to play
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling skills and catching techniques
- Understanding of simple court markings and boundaries
- Experience with team games and following rules
Current Skills
- Shooting technique with correct preparation and release
- Understanding High 5 netball positions and allowed areas
- Tactical awareness in attacking and defending phases
Next Steps
- Advanced shooting under defensive pressure
- Complex team attacking patterns and strategies
- Official 7-a-side netball positions and rules
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Shooting technique must prioritise form over accuracy in early stages
- Positional understanding is fundamental to effective team play
- Communication and teamwork are as important as individual skills
- Progressive challenges build confidence and competence
- Safety awareness must be maintained throughout all activities
- Positive reinforcement encourages risk-taking and skill development
- Game application consolidates learning in authentic contexts
Common Misconceptions
- Believing power comes only from arms rather than whole body coordination
- Thinking successful shots matter more than correct technique development
- Assuming all positions can shoot from anywhere on the court
- Expecting immediate accuracy without consistent practice and patience
- Focusing on individual performance rather than team success in games
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, hands-on learning opportunities, specific roles and responsibilities
dyspraxia
- Larger balls and targets, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time for coordination development
autism spectrum
- Clear routines and expectations, visual schedule of activities, quiet spaces available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written station cards with pictures
physical disability
- Adapted shooting positions (seated/supported), modified targets at appropriate heights, alternative ball sizes
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring shooting distances, calculating success rates, angles and trajectories of shots
Science
Forces and motion in ball flight, arc and gravity effects, body mechanics in shooting
Geography
Spatial awareness and court positioning, directional language, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competitive pressure, supporting others' learning
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move continuously between activity stations during carousel, central position during demonstrations
Observation Focus
Monitor shooting technique development, assess tactical understanding, watch for safety concerns
Intervention Points
Step in immediately for safety issues, provide technique correction during practice, manage game flow
Demonstration Notes
Use slow-motion technique breakdown, exaggerate key positions, involve students in demonstrations where appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Ball above head, not in front!'
- •'Straight shooting arm like a soldier!'
- •'Smooth release with wrist flick!'
- •'Work together to get the ball to your shooters!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m hard court area with netball post access
Surface Check
Dry, even hard court surface free from debris and obstacles
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check netball posts are secure and at correct height
- •Ensure netballs are properly inflated and in good condition
- •Verify hoops have no sharp edges or damage
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impacts during shooting practice
- •Collisions during game play
- •Falls due to quick directional changes
- •Finger injuries from incorrect ball handling
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear shooting directions established at all stations
- •Adequate spacing maintained between active shooters
- •Controlled game play with clear positional boundaries
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during carousel activities
- •Close monitoring during game application phase
- •Regular safety reminders throughout lesson
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, seek additional support if required