Lesson 6 - Volley Technique & Tactics
Technique to Competition
•Year 5
•Tennis
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can the volley become a powerful attacking weapon in tennis?
Learning Objectives
- To develop forehand and backhand volley technique with control and precision
- To understand the tactical application of volleys in game situations
- To apply volleys effectively in competitive scenarios
Key Outcomes
- Students will execute volleys with correct technique and timing
- Students will demonstrate tactical awareness of when to use volleys
- Students will show improved net play and court positioning
Equipment & Resources Required
Check racket size appropriate for student grip
Alternative: Paddle bats, badminton rackets for modified practice
Ensure balls have adequate bounce for volleys
Alternative: Foam balls, sponge balls for beginners
Use to create court boundaries and target areas
Alternative: Markers, spots for court boundaries
Key Vocabulary
Hitting the ball before it bounces on your side of the net
A firm, short hitting motion without a large backswing
Athletic stance with racket up and in front, prepared to react
Tactical positioning and shots executed close to the net
The optimal position to strike the ball relative to your body
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic forehand and backhand groundstrokes
- Understanding of ready position and grip
- Experience with cooperative rally activities
Current Skills
- Forehand volley technique with punchy action
- Backhand volley control and placement
- Tactical awareness of net positioning
Next Steps
- Advanced volley variations and angles
- Serve and volley tactics
- Competitive match play strategies
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Volley is hitting ball before it bounces on your side of the net
- Ready position with racket up like a shield for quick reactions
- Punchy action with minimal backswing - think push not swing
- Contact point must be in front of body for control and power
- Aim ball downwards over net to keep opponent under pressure
- Use volleys tactically when positioned at net to attack opponent
- Communication with partner essential in doubles volley situations
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking volleys require large backswing like groundstrokes - correct with 'punch not swing' emphasis
- Believing volleys should go high over net - demonstrate downward trajectory for attacking shots
- Assuming volleys are only for advanced players - show how basic volleys are accessible to all
- Thinking volley timing is same as groundstrokes - emphasise earlier contact before bounce
- Believing power comes from arm swing - correct with firm wrist and forward body movement
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, regular movement breaks, clear and immediate feedback
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier contact, reduced complexity initially, extra practice time and encouragement
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available if overwhelmed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls and cones, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Seated volley practice options, larger/lighter equipment, adapted court sizes and distances
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Calculating angles for volley placement, measuring court distances, tracking scores and statistics
Science
Understanding forces in ball contact, reaction times and reflexes, physics of ball flight and spin
Geography
Court positioning and spatial awareness, angles and direction in shot placement
PSHE
Teamwork and communication in doubles play, resilience when facing challenges, respect for opponents
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position allowing view of multiple courts, move actively between pairs during skill practice
Observation Focus
Ready position maintenance, contact point accuracy, tactical decision making in games
Intervention Points
Step in if technique breakdown risks safety, provide individual support for struggling students
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated ready position for visibility, show clear contrast between volley and groundstroke actions
Verbal Cues
- •'Ready position - shield up!'
- •'Punch don't swing!'
- •'Contact in front!'
- •'Attack the net!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Multiple court areas minimum 15m x 8m each, clear of obstacles and other activities
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate for quick directional changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check racket heads secure and no cracks in handles
- •Ensure balls maintain appropriate bounce pressure
- •Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage
- •Check net height appropriate for age group
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Racket contact with other students during swinging
- •Slips and falls during quick direction changes
- •Ball strikes to head or face during volleys
- •Collisions at net during competitive games
Risk Mitigation
- •Adequate spacing between practice areas and pairs
- •Emphasis on controlled feeding and gentle contact
- •Clear boundaries and positioning rules
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all practice areas
- •Move actively between groups during activities
- •Monitor competitive intensity in games
- •Watch for fatigue affecting technique and safety
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid, seek additional support if needed