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Lesson 1 - Dribbling Control and Rules

Skill Integration Mastery

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Year 5

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Basketball

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45 min

Big Question

How can we maintain control of the basketball while following the game rules?

Learning Objectives

To be able to dribble the ball with control whilst abiding by double dribble and travelling rules
To understand and apply basketball rules consistently during game situations
To develop spatial awareness and decision-making when dribbling under pressure

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled dribbling using correct technique at waist height
Students will explain and follow double dribble and travelling rules during activities
Students will make tactical decisions about when to dribble, pass, or move into space

Equipment & Resources Required

Basketball

1 per student (30)

Check inflation levels - should bounce to waist height when dropped

Alternative: Large playground balls, netballs if basketballs unavailable

Cones

Various colours useful for different team identification

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or chalk lines

Team bibs

30 (various colours)

Minimum 4 different colours needed for group activities

Alternative: Coloured pinnards, different coloured t-shirts

Key Vocabulary

Dribbling

Bouncing the ball continuously with one hand while moving

Double Dribble

Illegal move where a player dribbles, stops, then dribbles again

Travelling

Moving with the ball without dribbling - against the rules

Soft Hands

Using fingertips and gentle touch to control the ball

Court Vision

Keeping head up to see teammates, opponents, and spaces

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills from previous units
Understanding of personal and general space
Experience with simple passing and catching activities

Current Skills

Controlled dribbling using correct hand positioning
Understanding and application of basketball rules
Decision-making under pressure in game situations

Next Steps

Advanced dribbling moves and change of direction
Shooting techniques and accuracy
Team tactics and positional play in basketball

Milestone Indicators

Consistent waist-height dribbling with soft hands

Automatic rule compliance without conscious thought

Quick decision-making between dribbling and passing options

Key Teaching Points

Dribble with fingertips using soft hands, never slap the ball with palms
Maintain waist-height bouncing with ball slightly in front and to the side
Keep head up for court vision - essential for avoiding collisions and finding teammates
Double dribble rule: cannot dribble, catch, then dribble again
Travelling rule: cannot move with ball unless dribbling continuously
Decision-making: read the situation before choosing to dribble or pass
Fair play and honesty in self-officiating builds character and game understanding

Common Misconceptions

Students think harder dribbling equals better control - emphasise gentle touch
Belief that speed is more important than technique - stress control first
Confusion about when dribbling officially 'stops' for double dribble rule
Thinking they must dribble with dominant hand only - encourage both hands
Assumption that looking at ball improves control - emphasise peripheral vision
Misconception that basketball rules don't apply in practice games

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear breaks, immediate feedback, leadership roles to maintain engagement, movement breaks between instructions

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, slower pace introduction, extra practice time for skill development, partner support

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available, predictable transitions with warnings

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal descriptions of demonstrations, tactile boundary markers, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, hand signals for game commands, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Seated dribbling variations, larger softer balls, reduced court sizes, modified rules allowing multiple bounces or catches

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, using basketball vocabulary correctly, explaining rules and tactics to others

Maths

Counting dribbles and passes, measuring court dimensions, calculating game scores, timing activities with stopwatches

Science

Understanding forces in bouncing balls, gravity effects on ball trajectory, friction between ball and surface

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, honesty in self-officiating, dealing with competitive pressure, respect for rules and opponents

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during demonstrations, perimeter patrol during activities, corner positioning for game observation

Observation Focus

Watch for correct dribbling technique, rule compliance, spatial awareness, and positive interaction

Intervention Points

Step in when students struggle with basic technique, rule understanding unclear, or unsafe play develops

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate technique slowly first, then at game speed. Use student demonstrators to show variety and build confidence. Emphasise key coaching points visually.

Verbal Cues

•'Soft hands, like you're patting a puppy!'
•'Waist high, waist high!'
•'Head up, eyes scanning!'
•'Find the space, then fill it!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 20m indoor or outdoor hard surface area, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Non-slip surface essential for dribbling activities, check for wet patches or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check basketballs are properly inflated - should bounce to waist height when dropped
•Inspect balls for damage or excessive wear that might cause unpredictable bounces
•Ensure cones are in good condition with no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during movement activities
•Slips and falls on hard surfaces
•Ball strikes from poor passing or loss of control
•Overexertion during extended dribbling activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained throughout lesson
•Adequate spacing enforced between students during individual practice
•Progressive skill building prevents overambitious attempts
•Regular hydration breaks in extended activities
•Emphasis on control over speed in all activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups during game activities
•Monitor high-activity areas during traffic lights and group challenges
•Watch for signs of fatigue affecting coordination and decision-making

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately on 'FREEZE' command, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, clear area if needed