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Lesson 2 - Passing into the D and Shooting

Defensive Tactics Progression

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Year 5

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Hockey

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Big Question

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

Hockey sticks

1 per student (30)

Check sticks are appropriate height (waist level) for each student

Alternative: Foam sticks for beginners, different stick lengths available

Hockey balls

15-20 balls

Ensure balls are regulation weight and bounce appropriately

Alternative: Tennis balls for modified games, foam balls for beginners

Goals

4 goals (2 per pitch)

Position goals securely with adequate run-off space behind

Alternative: Cone goals, wall targets if goals not available

Cones

20-30 cones

Use bright colours for clear visibility, check for damage

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines for area marking

Bibs

15 bibs (3 different colours)

Ensure clear colour distinction between teams

Alternative: Coloured bands, team markers

Key Vocabulary

D area

The semi-circular area in front of the goal where shots can be taken to score

Push pass

A controlled passing technique where the stick pushes the ball rather than hitting it

Block tackle

A defensive technique where the stick blocks the ball's path

First touch

The initial control of the ball when receiving a pass

Free 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

Consistent accuracy in passing into the D (70%+ success rate)

Quick decision-making within 2-3 seconds of receiving ball

Effective team coordination with multiple pass sequences

Successful conversion of scoring opportunities (3+ goals per team per session)

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