Lesson 3 - Defending and Marking
Tactical Play & Competitions
•Year 5
•Handball
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How can we work as a defensive team to regain possession and prevent the opposition from scoring?
Learning Objectives
- To understand that roles change instantly from attacker to defender when possession is lost
- To apply effective man-to-man marking techniques to prevent passes and scoring opportunities
- To demonstrate defensive pressure by forcing attackers to hold the ball for longer than 3 seconds
Key Outcomes
- Students will consistently apply man-to-man marking in game situations
- Students will understand and enforce the 3-second rule when defending
- Students will demonstrate instant transition from attack to defence
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed around playing area perimeter for quick access
Alternative: Size 1 footballs, foam balls for safety
Positioned at each end of 30x20m area
Alternative: Large cones, corner flags, marked areas on wall
Mark goal areas, boundaries, and activity zones
Alternative: Markers, spots, rope boundaries
Clearly distinguish teams and roles during activities
Alternative: Team bands, different coloured t-shirts
Key Vocabulary
A defensive strategy where each defender is responsible for marking one specific attacker throughout the game
Positioning yourself between your opponent and the goal they are attacking
A handball rule stating players cannot hold the ball for more than 3 seconds without passing, shooting, or dribbling
Close marking and positioning that makes it difficult for attackers to pass, shoot, or move freely
The moment when a team changes from attacking to defending or defending to attacking
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic handball passing and catching techniques
- Understanding of possession and non-possession phases
- Basic spatial awareness in game situations
Current Skills
- Man-to-man marking technique
- Defensive positioning and goal-side marking
- Instant transition from attack to defence
- Applying defensive pressure using the 3-second rule
Next Steps
- Zone defending and team defensive systems
- Advanced interception techniques
- Communication and leadership in defensive situations
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Man-to-man marking means each defender has one specific attacker to shadow throughout the game
- Goal-side positioning - always position yourself between your attacker and the goal they want to score in
- Apply pressure to force the 3-second rule - get close to the ball carrier and count aloud to put them under time pressure
- Instant transition from attack to defence when possession changes - there's no time to hesitate
- Defensive teamwork requires clear communication about who marks who before the game starts
- Effective marking distance is within arm's reach but without making physical contact
- Use body position to block passing lanes while maintaining pressure on the ball carrier
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking you can mark all attackers at once - each defender must focus on their assigned player only
- Believing that marking means you can push or hold the attacker - no contact is allowed in marking
- Assuming defensive work is less important than attacking - good defence wins games and creates attacking opportunities
- Thinking the 3-second rule only applies when you're counting - it's always in effect when players hold the ball
- Believing that you only defend when your team doesn't have the ball - defend immediately when possession is lost
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use positive reinforcement frequently, allow movement breaks as needed
dyspraxia
- Simplify movement patterns, provide extra demonstration time, use larger equipment, break down skills into smaller steps, allow more practice time
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedules for activities, allow processing time for instructions, offer quiet zones if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured bibs and balls, provide verbal descriptions of positioning, use sound cues for timing, assign sighted peer partners
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals for timing and instructions, demonstrate all movements clearly, provide written instruction cards, use hand signals for communication
physical disability
- Modify marking distance and movement requirements, allow seated or supported marking positions, use appropriate alternative equipment, focus on tactical understanding
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting 3-second rule violations, measuring distances for marking, calculating points scored through defensive actions
Science
Understanding body positioning and centre of gravity for effective marking, forces and motion in defensive movements
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning concepts, understanding of space and territory in defensive contexts
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation in defensive systems, resilience when under attacking pressure, respect for opponents and rules
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position centrally to observe all groups, move between activities to provide individual feedback and ensure safety
Observation Focus
Watch for correct marking distance, goal-side positioning, transition speed, and team organisation
Intervention Points
Step in if students are making contact, not applying defensive pressure, or showing poor sportsmanship
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Use clear, exaggerated movements to show defensive positions, involve students in demonstrations to maintain engagement
Verbal Cues
- •'Get goal-side!'
- •'Shadow your player!'
- •'Count the seconds!'
- •'Pressure the ball!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m, clear of obstacles and hazards
Surface Check
Dry, even surface suitable for dynamic movement and direction changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check handballs are appropriate size and properly inflated
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges and are highly visible
- •Verify goals are stable and properly positioned
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during dynamic marking activities
- •Contact between defenders and attackers
- •Falls during direction changes and defensive movements
- •Overexertion during intense defensive pressure
Risk Mitigation
- •Establish clear 'no contact' rule for all defensive activities
- •Ensure adequate spacing between different groups and activities
- •Teach proper defensive positioning to maintain safe distance
- •Monitor intensity levels and provide regular rest periods
- •Emphasise controlled movements rather than reckless challenges
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all groups simultaneously during activities
- •Move between groups during practice to monitor technique and safety
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration that might lead to unsafe play
- •Ensure rules are being followed consistently across all groups
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, alert emergency services if required