Lesson 2 - Introducing the Volley
Tactical Partnerships
•Year 5
•Tennis
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can mastering the volley transform our tennis game and give us a tactical advantage?
Learning Objectives
- To introduce and develop the volley technique using both forehand and backhand grips
- To understand when and where to use the volley shot tactically in tennis
- To apply volley skills in game situations with increasing accuracy and control
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct volley technique on both forehand and backhand sides
- Students will position themselves effectively near the net to execute volleys
- Students will apply volley skills in competitive game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Check grip size is appropriate for students' hands
Alternative: Paddle bats, badminton rackets for control practice
Use slower balls (orange or red dot) for better control
Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags for initial practice
Used to mark mini court boundaries and net lines
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines
To identify partners and teams during activities
Alternative: Different coloured tops
Key Vocabulary
A shot played before the ball bounces, typically near the net
Standing close to the net to intercept the ball before it bounces
Balanced stance with racket out front, ready to react quickly
Returning to the ready position after playing a shot
Understanding where to stand on the court for different shots
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Students can perform basic forehand and backhand groundstrokes
- Students understand cooperative rally play (Rally 1,2,3)
- Students can grip the racket correctly for groundstrokes
- Students understand basic court positioning and movement
Current Skills
- Introduction to volley technique and positioning
- Understanding when and where to use volleys
- Developing hand-eye coordination for volleys
- Applying volleys in simple game situations
Next Steps
- Combining volleys with other shots in longer rallies
- Advanced volley placement and power control
- Using volleys tactically in competitive match play
- Developing serve and volley combinations
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Volley is hit before the ball bounces - this is the fundamental difference from groundstrokes
- Position close to the net but not touching - optimal distance for volley success
- Use short, compact 'punching' motion rather than long swing
- Contact point out in front of body for better control and direction
- Return to ready position after each volley for next shot preparation
- Develop both forehand and backhand volleys for complete court coverage
- Make tactical decisions about when volley is appropriate vs other shots
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking volley requires powerful swing like groundstrokes - actually needs controlled, compact motion
- Believing you must volley every ball near the net - sometimes groundstroke is better choice
- Assuming volley is just for advanced players - basic volley is accessible to all levels
- Standing too close to net thinking closer is better - optimal distance needed for effective volleys
- Trying to hit winners with every volley - placement and control more important than power
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular feedback, movement breaks built into lesson structure
dyspraxia
- Larger, slower balls, simplified technique focus, extra practice time, reduced complexity in initial stages
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available, consistent partner pairings
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls, verbal cues for positioning, tactile markers for court boundaries, partner guidance system
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations emphasised, written instruction cards, hand signals for communication, buddy system for support
physical disability
- Seated volley practice, modified equipment (lighter rackets), adapted court size, alternative targets at different heights
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring court distances, calculating rally success rates, angles of volley placement, timing measurements
Science
Forces in ball contact, trajectory and velocity, reaction time and reflexes, body mechanics in movement
Geography
Spatial awareness and court positioning, mapping movement patterns, understanding directions and angles
PSHE
Partnership cooperation, resilience when learning difficult skills, respect in competitive situations, self-confidence building
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between mini courts to observe and provide individual feedback, position at corner for full court visibility during games
Observation Focus
Watch for correct volley timing (before bounce), proper net positioning, and safe movement patterns
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with basic volley concept, address safety concerns immediately, provide additional demonstrations as needed
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements to show volley technique, contrast with groundstroke swing, emphasise net positioning throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Before it bounces!'
- •'Punch it back!'
- •'Ready position!'
- •'Move to the net!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 30m outdoor court space, divided into mini courts
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from debris, check for any cracks or holes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check racket grips are secure and strings intact
- •Ensure balls are appropriate pressure for skill level
- •Verify cone markers are stable and visible
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions when running to net position
- •Ball strikes from close range volleys
- •Slips and falls on outdoor surfaces
- •Racket contact between students in close proximity
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for each mini court
- •Adequate spacing between practice areas
- •Progressive skill building from stationary to moving
- •Emphasis on controlled, not powerful volleys
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all courts
- •Monitor high-activity net areas closely
- •Watch for fatigue during intensive rally games
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, have emergency contact readily available