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Lesson 2 - Finding Space in Play

Techniques To Tactics

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Year 5

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Netball

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45 min

Big Question

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

Netball

6-8 balls

Distribute around court perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Size 4 footballs or basketballs

Cones

20-25 cones

Used for zone marking and individual cone activity

Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk lines

Bibs

15 bibs (3 sets of 5)

Different colours for team identification

Alternative: Coloured bands or pinnies

Sun Markers

8-12 markers

Mark zone boundaries clearly

Alternative: Rope, chalk, or tape

Key Vocabulary

Space

An area on the court that is not occupied by opposing players

Straight Lead

A quick burst of speed directly away from your marking player

Dodging

Using quick footwork to deceive your opponent about your intended direction

Marking

Staying close to an opponent to prevent them receiving the ball or scoring

Power Player

A designated player in the scoring zone who teammates aim to pass to

End Zone

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

Student moves confidently into space without hesitation

Clear vocal and visual communication with teammates

Successful evasion of marking players consistently

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