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Lesson 6 - Volley Technique & Tactics

Technique to Competition

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Year 5

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Tennis

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45 min

Big Question

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

Tennis Rackets

Optional - as available

Check racket size appropriate for student grip

Alternative: Paddle bats, badminton rackets for modified practice

Tennis Balls

15 balls

Ensure balls have adequate bounce for volleys

Alternative: Foam balls, sponge balls for beginners

Cones

60 cones

Use to create court boundaries and target areas

Alternative: Markers, spots for court boundaries

Key Vocabulary

Volley

Hitting the ball before it bounces on your side of the net

Punchy action

A firm, short hitting motion without a large backswing

Ready position

Athletic stance with racket up and in front, prepared to react

Net play

Tactical positioning and shots executed close to the net

Contact point

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

Consistent contact point in front of body

Minimal backswing with firm wrist control

Strategic use of volleys to win points

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