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Lesson 3 - Dodging Skills and Game Application

Techniques To Tactics

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Year 5

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Netball

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45 min

Big Question

How can different dodging techniques help us create space and score in netball?

Learning Objectives

Use various dodging techniques (sprint, dodge, double dodge, sudden sprint) effectively in game situations
Analyse and describe different dodging methods and identify areas for improvement
Apply dodging skills strategically to evade opponents and create scoring opportunities

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate at least 2 different dodging techniques during game play
Students will explain the key features of effective dodging and suggest improvements
Students will successfully use dodging to create space and support team attacks

Equipment & Resources Required

Netball

1 per group of 3 (10 balls)

Distributed to feeder in each group of 3

Alternative: Size 4 footballs, basketballs for grip practice

Posts

2-4 depending on court setup

Positioned at scoring ends of courts

Alternative: Tall cones with hoops, basketball hoops

Cones

25 (various colours)

Mark court boundaries, D areas, and activity zones

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines

Bibs

2 sets of 8 (16 total)

Distinguish attacking and defending teams

Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts, armbands

Key Vocabulary

Dodging

A technique to quickly change direction to get away from an opponent

Marking

Staying close to an opponent to prevent them receiving the ball

Sprint Dodge

Moving quickly in one direction then suddenly accelerating in another

Double Dodge

Two quick direction changes to confuse the marking player

Sudden Sprint

Explosive movement from a stationary position

Feeder

The player who passes the ball to teammates

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic movement skills (running, stopping, changing direction)
Understanding of personal space and finding space
Basic netball rules and positions from previous lessons

Current Skills

Sprint dodging technique
Basic dodge (weight shift and direction change)
Double dodge combination
Sudden sprint from stationary

Next Steps

Advanced dodging combinations in pressure situations
Tactical use of dodging in different court positions
Reading opponents' movements to choose optimal dodges

Milestone Indicators

Students can demonstrate all 4 dodging techniques with correct form

Students choose appropriate dodging technique based on game situation

Students successfully evade marking players consistently

Key Teaching Points

Keep weight on balls of feet for quick direction changes
Use convincing body language to sell fake movements
Maintain eye contact with the ball carrier when possible
Pump arms to generate extra speed during sprints
Combine different dodging techniques to maximise effectiveness
Communicate with teammates by calling for the ball when free
Practice safe marking - stay close but avoid physical contact

Common Misconceptions

Thinking dodging means running as fast as possible all the time - actually requires pace variation
Believing bigger movements are always better - subtle weight shifts can be very effective
Assuming one dodge technique works in all situations - different scenarios require different approaches
Thinking marking means staying directly behind the opponent - good marking involves anticipating movement
Believing dodging is only for attacking - defending players also use dodging to create interceptions

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, regular feedback and praise, clearly defined boundaries

dyspraxia

Extended practice time, break down techniques into smaller steps, use of visual and verbal cues together

autism spectrum

Clear routines and structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of techniques, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for game management, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Adapted dodging from seated position, modified distances and spaces, wheelchair-accessible court areas

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting successful dodges, measuring distances covered, angles of movement during direction changes

Science

Forces in action during rapid direction changes, friction between feet and ground, body systems responding to exercise

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns around the court

PSHE

Teamwork and communication, resilience when techniques don't work immediately, fair play and respect for opponents

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around outside of courts for visibility of all students, position at corner to see multiple groups during practice

Observation Focus

Watch for correct dodging technique, safe marking distance, and successful space creation

Intervention Points

Step in if marking becomes too physical, if students not attempting dodging skills, or if safety concerns arise

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate each technique slowly first, then at game speed. Use student demonstrations to reinforce learning and celebrate success

Verbal Cues

•'Quick feet!'
•'Sell the fake!'
•'Eyes up for the ball!'
•'No contact marking!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum half netball court per 8 students (15m x 15m), clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate footwear for quick direction changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check netballs are properly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure cones are visible and stable
•Verify netball posts are secure and safe height

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during rapid direction changes
•Slips and falls during dodging movements
•Contact between players during marking

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established with adequate space between groups
•Emphasis on no-contact marking throughout activities
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex movements
•Regular monitoring of surface conditions and student fatigue

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students during games
•Monitor high-activity areas for signs of dangerous play
•Watch for students showing fatigue or loss of control

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid or seek additional support as needed