Lesson 2 - Finding Space in Play
Techniques To Tactics
•Year 5
•Netball
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How can we become masters of space and movement to create scoring opportunities in netball?
Learning Objectives
- To attempt to find space using various techniques during netball gameplay
- To communicate effectively with teammates when moving into space
- To practise different techniques when trying to find space whilst being marked
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate at least two different techniques for finding space during game situations
- Students will communicate clearly with teammates using voice and movement signals
- Students will successfully evade marking players using quick footwork and dodging techniques
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around court perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Size 4 footballs or basketballs
Used for zone marking and individual cone activity
Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk lines
Different colours for team identification
Alternative: Coloured bands or pinnies
Mark zone boundaries clearly
Alternative: Rope, chalk, or tape
Key Vocabulary
An area on the court that is not occupied by opposing players
A quick burst of speed directly away from your marking player
Using quick footwork to deceive your opponent about your intended direction
Staying close to an opponent to prevent them receiving the ball or scoring
A designated player in the scoring zone who teammates aim to pass to
The target area where the power player stands to receive passes
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic netball passing techniques from previous lessons
- Understanding of court boundaries and basic rules
- Simple movement patterns and spatial awareness
Current Skills
- Advanced space-finding techniques including straight leads and dodging
- Effective communication during movement
- Quick decision-making under defensive pressure
Next Steps
- Advanced dodging techniques and footwork patterns
- Complex passing combinations using created space
- Team tactics and positional play strategies
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Space-finding requires explosive movement rather than gradual acceleration
- Communication is essential - teammates need to know where you're moving
- Ready position with bent knees enables quick directional changes
- Dodging requires selling the fake direction convincingly before changing
- Creating space for teammates is as important as finding space for yourself
- Quick decision-making under pressure improves with practice
- Teamwork amplifies individual space-finding effectiveness
Common Misconceptions
- Students think any movement counts as space-finding (needs to be purposeful and explosive)
- Belief that space-finding is only about speed (technique and timing are crucial)
- Assumption that silent movement is acceptable (communication is essential)
- Thinking space only matters when you have the ball (creating space for others is vital)
- Misconception that dodging means just running in zigzags (requires convincing fake movements)
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries marked, regular positive feedback and refocusing
dyspraxia
- Simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time, larger equipment for easier handling
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured equipment, clear verbal descriptions of space locations, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations emphasised, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Seated passing versions, modified movement patterns, adapted space sizes for wheelchair access
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances for space calculation, angles of movement, counting passes and time
Science
Forces and motion in explosive movement, balance and centre of gravity during dodging
Geography
Spatial awareness, direction and orientation, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, communication skills
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between activities to observe all students, position at corner for maximum court visibility during games
Observation Focus
Watch for correct technique application, safe movement patterns, and positive communication
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe movements observed, technique significantly incorrect, or conflict between students
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate techniques at full speed after showing slowly, emphasise key teaching points visually
Verbal Cues
- •'Explosive start!'
- •'Call for the ball!'
- •'Find the space!'
- •'Quick feet!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum netball court size (30m x 15m) or equivalent hall space, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, dry and free from hazards, appropriate footwear worn
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check netballs are properly inflated and undamaged
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify bibs are clean and in good condition
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during explosive movement phases
- •Slips and falls on court surface
- •Overexertion during high-intensity activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for all activities
- •Adequate spacing between students during skill practice
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
- •Regular hydration breaks if needed
- •Teacher positioned for maximum visibility of all students
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe multiple groups during zone games
- •Monitor high-activity areas for collisions
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required