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Lesson 2 - Setting and Spiking Skills

Tactical Play Development

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Year 5

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Volleyball

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58 min

Big Question

How can precision in setting lead to powerful spikes in volleyball?

Learning Objectives

I can demonstrate the technique for setting a volleyball accurately
I can execute a spike with correct jumping and hitting technique
I can work cooperatively with teammates to maintain game flow

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to set a volleyball using proper finger positioning and follow-through
Students will demonstrate spiking technique with coordinated approach and downward contact
Students will show understanding of setter role in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Volleyballs

1-2

Distributed around court perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Beach balls for beginners, playground balls

Cones

Used for court boundaries and target areas

Alternative: Markers, spots, bean bags

Softballs

10-15

For warm-up activity

Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags

Key Vocabulary

Setting

Using fingertips to accurately direct the ball upwards for a teammate to spike

Spiking

Jumping and hitting the ball downwards with force over the net

Setter

The player responsible for positioning the ball for attacking players

Approach

The run-up and jump sequence before spiking

Contact Point

The optimal position where hand meets ball during spike

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball control and catching skills
Understanding of volleyball court layout
Experience with digging technique from previous lessons

Current Skills

Setting technique with finger positioning
Spiking approach and contact point
Cooperative play in volleyball contexts

Next Steps

Advanced setting variations and placement
Blocking and defensive positioning
Full game application with tactical awareness

Milestone Indicators

Consistent finger contact when setting

Coordinated approach jump for spiking

Smooth partner cooperation in drills

Key Teaching Points

Setting requires fingertip control with palms facing forward, not upward
Successful spiking depends on jumping height and downward contact angle
The setter's role is crucial for team success in volleyball
Approach timing is essential for effective spiking technique
Cooperation and communication enhance both learning and performance
Progressive skill building from static to dynamic applications
Quality technique is more important than power in volleyball skills

Common Misconceptions

That setting is just throwing the ball - emphasise finger positioning and pushing motion
That spiking is just hitting hard - focus on technique, timing, and downward angle
That volleyball is only about individual skills - highlight teamwork and cooperation
That taller players are automatically better - emphasise technique and timing over height
That speed is more important than accuracy - prioritise control and placement

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear movement boundaries, frequent position changes, immediate positive feedback for focus

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter balls, reduced complexity in movement patterns, extra practice time, step-by-step technique breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear, predictable routines, visual schedules for activity sequence, quiet spaces available, consistent partner arrangements

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal cues for all movements, implement buddy system for guidance and safety

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written instruction cards, face student when speaking

physical disability

Seated volleyball variations, modified net heights, use of larger/softer balls, adapted throwing techniques instead of spiking

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, giving clear instructions, descriptive language for movement

Maths

Calculating angles for spiking, measuring court dimensions, counting rally lengths, timing activities

Science

Forces and motion in jumping and ball contact, trajectory and gravity in ball flight, biomechanics of movement

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding directions and court layout, mapping movement patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing emotions in competitive situations, leadership and communication skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups to observe technique, position near net during spiking practice for safety

Observation Focus

Watch for finger positioning in setting, approach timing in spiking, cooperation quality

Intervention Points

Step in if technique is unsafe, groups are struggling with cooperation, or competitive intensity too high

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Exaggerate finger positioning for visibility, show complete spike sequence slowly, model positive communication

Verbal Cues

•'Fingertips only!'
•'Jump UP then hit DOWN!'
•'Work together, not against each other!'
•'Show me your ready position!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 15m clear area with volleyball court markings, adequate ceiling height for jumping

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate for jumping and landing

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Volleyballs properly inflated and checked for damage
•Net height appropriate for Year 5 (2.1m)
•Cones with no sharp edges
•Soft balls for warm-up checked for integrity

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during movement activities
•Landing injuries from jumping
•Ball strikes to head or face
•Net entanglement

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and movement patterns established
•Adequate spacing between groups and activities
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Controlled throwing and spiking techniques
•Safe landing instruction for jumping activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Monitor jumping and landing techniques closely
•Watch for fatigue affecting technique
•Ensure controlled competitive intensity

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school medical support if needed