Lesson 1 - Bump and Dig Technique
Tactical Play Development
•Year 5
•Volleyball
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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
Distributed around court perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Foam balls or beach balls for beginners
Arranged in lines to create net boundaries and target areas
Alternative: Bean bags or markers
For team identification in games
Alternative: Team bands or markers
Key Vocabulary
A volleyball technique used to receive balls at waist height or above using both forearms together
A volleyball technique used to receive balls below waist height with a low body position
The flat surface created by joining both forearms together for bump passes
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
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