Lesson 6 - Tactical Application and Selection
Fair Play to Tournament Skills
•Year 5
•Dodgeball
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How can we work as a team to outsmart our opponents using different tactics?
Learning Objectives
- To select and apply a variety of tactics effectively in game situations
- To evaluate which tactics work best against different opponents
- To communicate tactical decisions clearly with teammates
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate tactical awareness by selecting appropriate strategies during games
- Students will work collaboratively to execute team tactics successfully
- Students will evaluate the effectiveness of different tactical approaches
Equipment & Resources Required
Check all balls are properly inflated and in good condition
Alternative: Foam balls, tennis balls for safety modifications
Mark clear boundaries and centre lines for multiple courts
Alternative: Spot markers, chalk lines
Available for reference during rule disputes
Alternative: Simplified rules poster
Key Vocabulary
Planned strategies used by a team to gain advantage over opponents
Using one action to take opponent's attention away from the real threat
Working together as a team with precise timing
Where players place themselves on court for maximum effectiveness
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Students can throw and catch dodgeballs with reasonable accuracy
- Students understand basic dodgeball rules
- Students have practiced basic dodging and throwing techniques
Current Skills
- Applying specific tactical approaches in competitive situations
- Communicating tactical decisions with teammates
- Evaluating effectiveness of different strategies
Next Steps
- Developing advanced tactical combinations
- Leading tactical discussions and planning
- Adapting tactics quickly during competitive play
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Tactics are team strategies that require communication and cooperation
- Different tactical approaches work better against different opponents
- Successful tactics combine individual skills with team coordination
- Adaptation is key - change tactics when current approach isn't working
- Communication systems help teams coordinate without alerting opponents
- Reflection on tactical success helps improve future performance
- Good sportsmanship includes recognising opponents' effective tactics
Common Misconceptions
- One tactic will work in every situation - teach adaptation and flexibility
- Tactics are too complicated for young people - show how simple communication makes tactics accessible
- Individual skill is more important than teamwork - emphasise that tactics multiply individual effectiveness
- Losing means tactics didn't work - help students understand that good tactics can still lose to better execution
- Tactics are only for advanced players - demonstrate how basic tactical awareness improves everyone's game
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent position changes, clear boundaries, regular tactical feedback, shorter game intervals with breaks
dyspraxia
- Simplified throwing techniques, larger targets, extra practice time, focus on tactical understanding over physical execution
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure for each tactic, visual schedule showing game progression, quiet reflection time, predictable team groupings
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls, verbal descriptions of tactics, buddy system for positioning guidance, audio signals for game changes
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstration of all tactics, clear hand signals for communication, written tactic cards, vibrant visual cues
physical disability
- Seated throwing positions, modified court size, softer balls, adapted tactical roles focusing on strategy rather than mobility
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Tactical vocabulary development, clear communication skills, discussion and reflection abilities
Science
Forces and motion in ball throwing, physics of trajectory and impact, teamwork as system coordination
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, mapping court strategies, understanding angles and directions
PSHE
Leadership development, effective communication, resilience when tactics fail, respect for opponents
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central location allowing supervision of all courts, rotate between teams during tactical practice
Observation Focus
Watch for tactical execution, team communication, safe play, and positive leadership
Intervention Points
Step in when tactics become unsafe, when teams need communication support, or when rules are not followed
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements when showing tactics, involve students in demonstrations, repeat key tactical points frequently
Verbal Cues
- •'Remember to communicate your tactic!'
- •'Keep throws below shoulder height!'
- •'What's your team's signal for changing tactics?'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large indoor hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 30m with clear boundaries
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, free from obstacles, appropriate for dynamic movement and diving
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all dodgeballs are properly inflated and in good condition
- •Ensure cones are stable and have no sharp edges
- •Verify no students are wearing jewellery or unsuitable clothing
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to face or head area
- •Collisions between students during active play
- •Slips and falls during quick direction changes
- •Overexertion during competitive activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Enforce below-shoulder throwing rule strictly
- •Maintain adequate spacing between multiple courts
- •Use official dodgeballs appropriate for age group
- •Monitor competitive intensity and provide breaks
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all courts simultaneously
- •Focus on throwing techniques and target areas
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
Emergency Procedures
Stop all play immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required