Lesson 2 - Passing into the D and Shooting
Defensive Tactics Progression
•Year 5
•Hockey
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How can we use accurate passing and quick decision-making to create and convert scoring opportunities in the D?
Learning Objectives
- To develop accurate passing skills to deliver the ball into the D effectively
- To improve shooting technique and decision-making when receiving the ball in the D
- To understand and apply teamwork strategies for creating scoring opportunities
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate controlled passing into the D using push pass technique
- Students will show quick decision-making when receiving the ball in scoring positions
- Students will work effectively as a team to create and convert scoring chances
Equipment & Resources Required
Check sticks are appropriate height (waist level) for each student
Alternative: Foam sticks for beginners, different stick lengths available
Ensure balls are regulation weight and bounce appropriately
Alternative: Tennis balls for modified games, foam balls for beginners
Position goals securely with adequate run-off space behind
Alternative: Cone goals, wall targets if goals not available
Use bright colours for clear visibility, check for damage
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines for area marking
Ensure clear colour distinction between teams
Alternative: Coloured bands, team markers
Key Vocabulary
The semi-circular area in front of the goal where shots can be taken to score
A controlled passing technique where the stick pushes the ball rather than hitting it
A defensive technique where the stick blocks the ball's path
The initial control of the ball when receiving a pass
A restart given to the non-offending team after a rule infringement
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic push pass technique from previous lessons
- Understanding of the D area and its importance in hockey
- Block tackle defensive technique
- Basic shooting stance and swing
Current Skills
- Accurate passing into restricted areas
- Quick decision-making in the D
- Team coordination for scoring opportunities
- Defensive positioning in the D
Next Steps
- Advanced passing variations (reverse stick, aerial passes)
- Complex team tactics and set plays
- Advanced shooting techniques from different angles
- Transition play from defence to attack
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Push pass technique requires smooth action, not hitting
- Quick decision-making in the D: shoot first, then pass, then dribble
- Two players must be in D before any shot can be taken
- Accurate passing creates better scoring opportunities than individual dribbling
- Communication and teamwork are essential for successful D area play
- Safety first - no contact and stick control at all times
- Game rules must be consistently applied to maintain fair play
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking power is more important than accuracy in passing - emphasise controlled passing
- Believing individual skills are better than teamwork - highlight team success stories
- Assuming you can shoot from anywhere - reinforce D area rules and positioning
- Thinking defending means tackling immediately - teach patience and positioning
- Believing faster always means better - emphasise control and decision-making quality
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, positive reinforcement for good focus
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment, simplified movements initially, extra practice time for skill development
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual timetable of activities, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for common commands
physical disability
- Adapted sticks or seated position, modified pitch size, peer support for movement
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Calculating angles for accurate passing, measuring distances for optimal positioning, counting successful passes and goals
Science
Understanding forces and motion in ball movement, friction between stick and ball, momentum in running and stopping
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of area and boundaries, directions and movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, handling competitive pressure, resilience when facing challenges, leadership skills
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move constantly to observe all groups, position at corner points for maximum visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for accurate passing technique, quick decision-making in D area, and adherence to safety rules
Intervention Points
Step in when safety rules are broken, technique needs correction, or students need encouragement
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for technique demonstrations, position where all can see, repeat key points
Verbal Cues
- •'Push, don't hit the ball!'
- •'Look up for shooting opportunities!'
- •'Two in the D before shooting!'
- •'Quick decisions in the D!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m area per group, with additional run-off space behind goals
Surface Check
Flat, even surface free from holes, debris or wet patches that could cause slips
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check hockey sticks for cracks, splinters or loose grips
- •Ensure balls are regulation weight and not damaged
- •Verify goals are stable and securely positioned
- •Check cones have no sharp edges or cracks
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Stick contact with other students
- •Ball strikes to head or body
- •Collisions during game play
- •Slips and falls on playing surface
Risk Mitigation
- •Enforce strict no-contact rule throughout
- •Maintain stick below waist height at all times
- •Adequate spacing between activities and groups
- •Clear boundaries marked and understood by all students
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups
- •Actively monitor stick safety during competitive play
- •Watch for fatigue affecting concentration and safety
- •Ensure immediate response to any rule infringements
Emergency Procedures
Stop all play immediately, assess injury level, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if serious injury