Lesson 6 - Tackling Techniques
Tactical Awareness
•Year 5
•Hockey
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How do we choose the right tackling technique to win possession whilst maintaining fair play?
Learning Objectives
- To master open stick (block) tackle technique for defensive situations
- To develop jab tackle skills for quick ball recovery
- To understand when to apply different tackling techniques in game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct body position and timing for open stick tackles
- Students will execute effective jab tackles from both sides of their body
- Students will select appropriate tackling techniques based on game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Check all sticks for damage, ensure appropriate length for students
Alternative: Floor hockey sticks, adapted sticks for different heights
Softer balls reduce injury risk whilst learning
Alternative: Foam balls, hockey balls for advanced groups
Use bright colours for clear visibility of boundaries and goals
Alternative: Spot markers, bibs as goal markers
Key Vocabulary
A defensive technique where the stick is placed low to create a barrier, preventing the attacker from advancing
A quick, sharp movement to dispossess an opponent by jabbing the stick at the ball
Following an opponent's movement whilst maintaining defensive position
Choosing the exact moment to execute a tackle for maximum effectiveness
Having control of the ball and being able to play it effectively
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic stick handling and dribbling skills
- Understanding of attacking and defending roles
- Ability to control ball whilst moving
Current Skills
- Open stick (block) tackle technique
- Jab tackle from both sides
- Tactical decision making in defensive situations
Next Steps
- Advanced tackling in pressured game situations
- Combination defending with teammates
- Leading defensive strategies in full games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Timing is crucial - don't position too early for open stick tackles
- Jab tackle should be like a 'snake strike' - quick in and out movement
- Wide grip on stick provides better control during tackles
- Maintain balanced, crouched position for effective blocking
- Choose tackle type based on situation - jab for moving opponents, block for head-on approaches
- Safety first - sticks below waist height at all times
- Track opponents closely to create tackling opportunities
Common Misconceptions
- That harder tackles are more effective - emphasise technique over force
- That you should tackle immediately when near opponent - teach importance of timing
- That only one tackle type works - demonstrate appropriate use of both techniques
- That defending means staying in one position - teach active tracking and movement
- That losing the ball means failure - frame as learning opportunity and part of game
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short practice bursts with regular changes, clear boundaries and rules, immediate positive feedback for good technique
dyspraxia
- Break down movements into smaller steps, use larger equipment initially, extra practice time for coordination development
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of lesson phases, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of tackle positions, pair with sighted partner for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instruction, written technique reminders on display
physical disability
- Adapt grip positions for limited mobility, use seated versions where appropriate, modify tackle techniques for wheelchair users
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances for goal spacing, timing tackle attempts, counting successful tackles in games
Science
Forces and motion in ball movement, reaction times in defensive situations, biomechanics of stick positioning
Geography
Spatial awareness, direction and positioning on playing area, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Fair play and respect, working cooperatively with partners, managing competition emotions, resilience when losing possession
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move constantly between groups, positioning to see all students, intervene early if unsafe practice observed
Observation Focus
Watch for correct technique, safe stick handling, fair play, appropriate intensity level
Intervention Points
Step in immediately for unsafe stick use, over-aggressive tackling, or students struggling with basic technique
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for clear visibility, demonstrate common mistakes as well as correct technique, involve confident students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Stick low, stay balanced!'
- •'Time it right - wait for your moment!'
- •'Snake strike - quick in and out!'
- •'Fair play everyone - controlled tackles only!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m for full class, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from debris or hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •All hockey sticks checked for damage before lesson
- •Tennis balls used instead of hockey balls to reduce injury risk
- •Cones checked for sharp edges or damage
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Stick contact with other students
- •Collisions during tackling practice
- •Falls during quick direction changes
Risk Mitigation
- •Strict stick height rule enforced (below waist)
- •One-on-one tackling only during games
- •Adequate spacing between practice pairs
- •Progressive skill building from slow to game pace
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear sight of all practice pairs
- •Monitor stick height consistently
- •Watch for over-aggressive tackling
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school office if required