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Lesson 1 - Bump and Dig Technique

Tactical Play Development

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Year 5

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Volleyball

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45 min

Big Question

How can mastering the bump and dig techniques help us control the game and work effectively as a team?

Learning Objectives

Students will demonstrate correct bump and dig techniques for receiving volleyballs
Students will understand when to use bump versus dig based on ball height
Students will apply these techniques in competitive game situations

Key Outcomes

All students can attempt bump and dig techniques with support
Most students perform bump and dig with increasing accuracy
Some students demonstrate advanced technique and tactical awareness

Equipment & Resources Required

Volleyballs

15 (1 per pair)

Distributed around court perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Foam balls or beach balls for beginners

Cones

60 (for nets and targets)

Arranged in lines to create net boundaries and target areas

Alternative: Bean bags or markers

Coloured Bibs

For team identification in games

Alternative: Team bands or markers

Key Vocabulary

Bump

A volleyball technique used to receive balls at waist height or above using both forearms together

Dig

A volleyball technique used to receive balls below waist height with a low body position

Platform

The flat surface created by joining both forearms together for bump passes

Court positioning

Moving to the best spot to receive and play the ball effectively

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills from previous units
Understanding of sending and receiving concept
Experience working in pairs and small groups

Current Skills

Bump technique for balls at waist height or above
Dig technique for balls below waist height
Positioning and movement to receive balls
Basic volleyball game understanding

Next Steps

Spike and block techniques
Setting and more advanced passing
Complex team tactics and formations
Full court volleyball games

Milestone Indicators

Consistent platform creation with arms

Appropriate technique selection based on ball height

Accurate passing to designated targets

Effective communication during play

Key Teaching Points

Platform creation is fundamental to both bump and dig techniques
Technique selection depends on ball height relative to waist
Communication prevents collisions and builds effective teamwork
Progressive practice from static to dynamic improves retention
Game application consolidates skills in realistic contexts
Self-assessment develops independent learning skills
Positive reinforcement encourages continued participation

Common Misconceptions

Thinking bump and dig are the same technique - emphasise height-based selection
Using hands instead of forearms - demonstrate proper contact points clearly
Swinging arms rather than creating stable platform - practice stationary positioning first
Believing volleyball is too difficult - build confidence through progressive activities
Not understanding importance of communication - link to safety and team success

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback, movement-based learning

dyspraxia

Larger equipment initially, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, step-by-step breakdowns

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual task cards, quiet space available if needed, predictable lesson format

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance for platform position

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, clear hand signals, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Seated volleyball adaptations, modified techniques for reduced mobility, peer support systems

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Clear verbal communication, following and giving instructions, descriptive vocabulary for movement

Maths

Counting sequences in 5-4-3-2-1 activity, measuring court dimensions, calculating scores and statistics

Science

Forces and motion in ball flight, angles of contact, physics of ball bounce and trajectory

PSHE

Teamwork and communication, resilience when facing challenges, fair play and honest competition

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all students, position centrally for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct platform creation, appropriate technique selection, positive communication

Intervention Points

Step in when technique becomes unsafe, if students are struggling with concept, during conflicts

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clarity, involve students in demonstrations, repeat key points regularly

Verbal Cues

•'Platform first, then contact!'
•'Low for dig, ready for bump!'
•'Call it loud and clear!'
•'Watch the ball onto your arms!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 30m, clear indoor space or outdoor court area

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, dry conditions, free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check volleyballs are properly inflated
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Position equipment away from active play areas

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impact injuries from poor technique
•Collisions between players going for same ball
•Slips and falls during quick movements
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing requirements between pairs/groups
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Emphasis on communication to avoid collisions
•Regular breaks and technique reminders

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Monitor technique to prevent unsafe practices
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration
•Ensure fair play and positive interactions

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately on injury, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid, inform relevant staff