Lesson 3 - Defending and Marking
Advanced Game Strategies
•Year 5
•Netball
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How can we transition from attack to defence to regain possession of the ball?
Learning Objectives
- To understand that player roles change instantly when possession is lost
- To apply effective marking techniques to prevent passes and create pressure
- To demonstrate defensive strategies that force errors and regain possession
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate instant transition from attack to defence when possession changes
- Students will apply effective marking techniques to prevent successful passes
- Students will show understanding of defensive responsibilities in game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around court perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Size 4 footballs, basketballs for practice
Position at opposite ends of court area
Alternative: Basketball hoops, target zones marked with cones
One colour for defenders, one for attackers
Alternative: Different coloured tops, arm bands
Mark court boundaries and activity areas
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines on hard surface
For monitoring 4-second rule and activity timing
Alternative: Phone timers, counting aloud
Key Vocabulary
The role players take when their team doesn't have possession of the ball
Staying close to an opponent to prevent them receiving or passing the ball effectively
The instant change from attacking to defending (or vice versa) when possession changes
Making it difficult for opponents to pass, move or hold the ball comfortably
Each defender is responsible for marking one specific attacker
Players must release the ball within 4 seconds of receiving it
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic passing techniques (chest pass, bounce pass)
- Moving into space to receive passes
- Understanding of 4-second rule
- Basic footwork and pivoting skills
Current Skills
- Instant transition from attack to defence
- Effective marking of player with ball
- Applying pressure to force errors
- Man-to-man marking strategies
Next Steps
- Zone defence strategies
- Intercepting passes
- Defensive positioning at different court areas
- Team defensive systems
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Defending begins the instant your team loses possession of the ball
- Mark the player with the ball first - they are the immediate threat
- Stay arm's length away to pressure without fouling
- Use the 4-second rule to your advantage by applying constant pressure
- Good defending is about positioning and pressure, not contact
- Communication between defenders helps organise team defence
- Every defensive success should be celebrated as much as scoring
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: Defending means trying to steal the ball directly. Reality: Defending is about positioning and pressure to force errors.
- Misconception: You can touch opponents when marking. Reality: Netball defending is non-contact - use positioning only.
- Misconception: Only some players need to defend. Reality: Everyone becomes a defender when possession is lost.
- Misconception: Defending is less important than attacking. Reality: Good defence creates attacking opportunities.
- Misconception: You should always mark the same player. Reality: Mark the most dangerous player (usually with ball).
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short activity bursts with regular changes, clear boundaries, frequent positive feedback
dyspraxia
- Break down marking into smaller steps, additional practice time, simplified instructions
autism spectrum
- Clear structure with visual schedule, designated quiet zone, consistent routines
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured bibs, verbal descriptions of positioning, buddy system for demonstrations
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of marking positions, hand signals for timing, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Seated marking practice, modified court size, adapted equipment as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting 4-second rule, calculating success rates, measuring court dimensions
Science
Forces and pressure in defending, reaction times, balance and stability
PSHE
Teamwork and communication, resilience when defending is difficult, fair play
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move continuously between groups to observe and provide feedback
Observation Focus
Watch for correct marking distance, legal defending, and positive role transition
Intervention Points
Step in if students making illegal contact or becoming frustrated with defending
Demonstration Notes
Use enthusiastic demonstrations to show that defending can be exciting and rewarding
Verbal Cues
- •'Arm's length away!'
- •'No touching, just pressure!'
- •'Switch roles now!'
- •'Great defending!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large indoor space minimum 30m x 20m or outdoor netball court
Surface Check
Even, non-slip surface free from water or debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check netball posts are stable and secure
- •Ensure balls are correctly inflated
- •Verify bibs have no sharp edges or tears
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between players during marking
- •Falls from quick direction changes
- •Contact injuries from over-enthusiastic defending
- •Finger injuries from catching/passing
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise no-contact defending throughout lesson
- •Clear boundaries marked for each activity
- •Adequate spacing between activity groups
- •Progressive skill building from simple to complex
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all groups during activities
- •Monitor for illegal contact during marking practice
- •Watch for fatigue during intensive activities
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school office if serious