Lesson 2 - Indian Dribble and Push Pass
Skills To Strategy
•Year 5
•Hockey
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How can we use the Indian dribble and push pass to maintain possession and create attacking opportunities in hockey?
Learning Objectives
- To develop proficiency in the Indian dribble technique for changing direction
- To execute accurate push passes with correct technique and timing
- To demonstrate effective receiving skills by cushioning ball impact
Key Outcomes
- Students will perform the Indian dribble with control and fluidity
- Students will execute push passes with accuracy over 5-metre distances
- Students will receive balls using correct cushioning technique consistently
Equipment & Resources Required
Check stick length - should reach hip bone when standing upright
Alternative: Unihoc sticks for beginners or indoor use
Store in equipment bags around perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Tennis balls for skill development, foam balls for safety
Set up gates 2-3 metres apart around activity area
Alternative: Dome markers, witches hats
Required for game situations and team identification
Alternative: Coloured bands, team identifiers
Key Vocabulary
A hockey technique where the ball is pushed alternately left and right while moving forward, using both sides of the stick
A controlled passing technique where the stick stays in contact with the ball throughout the movement
Absorbing the impact of a received ball by softening the hands and angling the stick
Using the back of the hockey stick blade (toe pointing down) for ball control
The left side of a right-handed player, typically weaker for receiving and controlling
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball and stick control from Unit 1 Lesson 1
- Understanding of using flat side of stick only
- Basic dribbling in straight lines
Current Skills
- Indian dribble technique for direction changes
- Push pass execution and receiving
- Game application under pressure
Next Steps
- Advanced passing techniques (hit and sweep)
- Tactical understanding of space and positioning
- Combining skills in small-sided games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Indian dribble requires 180-degree stick rotation with left hand control
- Push pass maintains stick-ball contact throughout the movement
- Receiving requires soft hands and bent knees to cushion ball impact
- Tactical understanding: target backhand side for defensive advantage
- Technical language essential for effective peer assessment
- Safety priority: stick control and spatial awareness at all times
- Progressive skill development builds confidence before game application
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking Indian dribble is just hitting ball left and right without proper stick rotation
- Believing push pass is same as hitting - missing the continuous contact element
- Assuming receiving is passive - not understanding active cushioning required
- Thinking speed is more important than control in skill development
- Believing that game success doesn't require technical accuracy
- Misunderstanding that peer assessment should only focus on what's wrong
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, movement opportunities throughout, specific role responsibilities
dyspraxia
- Larger balls for easier control, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, step-by-step skill breakdown
autism spectrum
- Clear routines and signals, visual schedule of lesson structure, quiet zone available if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls and cones, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, tap shoulder for attention
physical disability
- Adapt stick length and weight, seated versions of skills, modified distances and targets
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, peer assessment communication, tactical discussion language
Maths
Measuring 5-metre distances, calculating success rates in passing, angles of ball movement and stick rotation
Science
Forces and motion in ball control, friction between stick and ball, Newton's laws in cushioning impact
Geography
Directional language (left/right), spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns around area
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter for visibility, position diagonally opposite during demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for correct stick use, ball control development, and safe spacing between students
Intervention Points
Step in when technique breaks down completely, safety issues arise, or students become frustrated
Demonstration Notes
Use large, exaggerated movements for visibility, break complex skills into clear steps, involve students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Stick stays low!'
- •'Push, don't hit!'
- •'Soft hands for receiving!'
- •'Find the space!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Even grass or artificial surface, free from holes or debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check hockey sticks for damage before use
- •Ensure balls are appropriate hardness for Year 5
- •Inspect cones have no sharp edges or cracks
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Stick contact between students
- •Ball strikes to body or head
- •Collisions during movement activities
- •Trips over equipment
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear 'stick down' signals established
- •Adequate spacing maintained during all activities
- •Progressive skill building prevents overwhelming students
- •Clear boundaries and traffic patterns
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during stick work
- •Monitor high-activity areas during games
- •Intervene quickly if unsafe stick use observed
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately with whistle, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if required