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Lesson 1 - Stick Handling and Ball Control

Fundamentals & Skill Integration

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Year 5

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Lacrosse

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Big Question

How can I use a lacrosse stick as an extension of my hands to control and carry a ball effectively?

Learning Objectives

To demonstrate correct stick grip and carrying technique
To perform scooping skills with accuracy and control
To apply cradling technique while moving in different directions

Key Outcomes

Students will hold a lacrosse stick correctly and maintain proper grip throughout activities
Students will scoop a stationary and moving ball using the step-squat-scoop technique
Students will cradle a ball while moving, changing direction and maintaining control

Equipment & Resources Required

Lacrosse sticks

1 per student (30)

Check sticks for damage before lesson, ensure appropriate size for Year 5

Alternative: Youth lacrosse sticks, hockey sticks for adapted version

Lacrosse Balls

1 per student + 20 spares

Have extras available in central location for Rob the Nest game

Alternative: Tennis balls, soft practice balls for beginners

Coloured Bibs

10 (2 different colours)

For team identification during games

Alternative: Team bands, coloured cones to hold

Cones

20 small cones

For marking boundaries and creating figure-8 courses

Alternative: Markers, hoops as targets

Hoops

6 large hoops

For Rob the Nest collection points

Alternative: Marked circles with chalk, bucket targets

Key Vocabulary

Cradling

Rhythmic rocking motion with the stick to keep the ball secure in the net while moving

Scooping

Technique to pick up a ball from the ground using the lacrosse stick

Dominant hand

The hand that controls the top of the stick and provides power and direction

Stick head

The netted end of the lacrosse stick used to catch, carry and throw the ball

Ground ball

A loose ball on the ground that needs to be picked up

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic hand-eye coordination skills
Understanding of dominant and non-dominant hands
Experience with ball games and equipment handling

Current Skills

Correct lacrosse stick grip and positioning
Step-squat-scoop technique for ball collection
Cradling technique for ball carrying

Next Steps

Passing and catching with partners
Defensive stick positioning
Game application with ground ball situations

Milestone Indicators

Maintains correct grip without reminders

Scoops balls successfully 8 out of 10 attempts

Cradles while moving without dropping ball

Key Teaching Points

Dominant hand always at top of stick for power and control
Step-squat-scoop sequence must be performed low to ground
Cradling motion should be gentle and rhythmic, not violent
Safety first - controlled movements even during competitive games
Technique over speed - build accuracy before increasing pace
Positive peer feedback builds confidence and improves learning
Self-assessment helps students understand their own progress

Common Misconceptions

Students think scooping means jabbing at the ball - demonstrate smooth through motion
Belief that cradling requires vigourous shaking - show gentle rocking technique
Assumption that speed is more important than technique - emphasise control first
Thinking both hands should be close together on stick - demonstrate wide grip benefits
Misconception that ground balls are 'mistakes' - explain they're normal in lacrosse games

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with clear transitions, regular movement breaks, clear boundaries and expectations, positive reinforcement systems

dyspraxia

Larger, softer balls for confidence building, extra practice time for technique development, breaking skills into smaller steps

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available if overwhelmed, consistent verbal cues and demonstrations

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, assign sighted buddy for guidance during activities

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for key techniques, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Shorter lacrosse sticks or adapted grips, seated versions of activities where appropriate, modified distances and targets

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances for equipment setup, timing activities, counting successful attempts and calculating improvement percentages

Science

Understanding forces and motion in ball movement, biomechanics of body position during scooping, physics of ball trajectory during rolling

Geography

Spatial awareness and mapping movement patterns, understanding direction changes and positioning relative to targets and boundaries

PSHE

Building confidence through skill development, resilience when learning challenging techniques, teamwork and communication during partner activities

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around area perimeter to observe all students, position centrally for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Monitor stick grip, scooping technique, ball control during movement, and safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in when students struggle with basic grip, show unsafe stick handling, or become frustrated with technique

Demonstration Notes

Use slow, exaggerated movements for technique demonstration, repeat key points multiple times, involve students in demonstrations where appropriate

Verbal Cues

•'Step, squat, scoop!' for technique reminders
•'Cradle like rocking a baby' for gentle motion
•'Hands wide apart' for grip correction
•'Low and through the ball' for scooping

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 30m with clear boundaries

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from holes or debris, suitable for running movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check lacrosse sticks for cracks or sharp edges before lesson
•Ensure stick heads are securely attached
•Use appropriate ball type - lacrosse balls or softer alternatives for beginners
•Check hoops and cones have no sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick collision during movement activities
•Ball strikes to face or body
•Slips and falls during direction changes
•Collisions during competitive games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and spacing established for all activities
•Emphasis on controlled movements and technique over speed
•No contact rules during cat and mouse games
•Supervised equipment distribution and collection

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all students during activities
•Monitor central collection areas during Rob the Nest
•Check individual technique during skill practice
•Ensure no student is isolated or struggling

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact school office if required