Lesson 3 - Dodging Skills and Game Application
Techniques To Tactics
•Year 5
•Netball
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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
Distributed to feeder in each group of 3
Alternative: Size 4 footballs, basketballs for grip practice
Positioned at scoring ends of courts
Alternative: Tall cones with hoops, basketball hoops
Mark court boundaries, D areas, and activity zones
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines
Distinguish attacking and defending teams
Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts, armbands
Key Vocabulary
A technique to quickly change direction to get away from an opponent
Staying close to an opponent to prevent them receiving the ball
Moving quickly in one direction then suddenly accelerating in another
Two quick direction changes to confuse the marking player
Explosive movement from a stationary position
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
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