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Lesson 4 - Dig Shot Development

Volleyball Foundations & Skills

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Year 5

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Volleyball

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1h 14min

Big Question

How can I use the dig shot to keep the ball in play when it comes towards me low?

Learning Objectives

To develop and apply the dig shot technique with increasing accuracy
To understand when to use the dig shot in game situations
To demonstrate control and consistency when performing the dig shot under pressure

Key Outcomes

Students will perform the dig shot with correct forearm positioning
Students will select appropriate actions based on ball height and position
Students will maintain rallies using the dig shot in game-like situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Volleyballs

3 nets

Distribute around court perimeter before lesson

Alternative: Playground balls, foam volleyballs for beginners

Cones

12 cones

Use to mark court boundaries and target areas

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or other boundary markers

Key Vocabulary

Dig shot

A volleyball technique used when the ball is too low to volley, using the forearms to contact the ball

Forearms

The part of the arm between the wrist and elbow, used as the contact surface for digging

Ready position

Athletic stance with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, ready to move in any direction

Platform

The flat surface created by joining forearms together for digging

Bump

Another name for the dig shot, referring to the upward contact with the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and catching skills
Understanding of ready position in volleyball
Experience with underarm throwing and basic ball control

Current Skills

Dig shot technique with forearm contact
Body positioning and movement for digging
Decision making for when to use the dig shot

Next Steps

Combining dig shots with volleys in sequences
Advanced positioning and court awareness
Competitive game play with multiple skills

Milestone Indicators

Consistent forearm contact with ball

Ability to direct ball to intended target

Selection of appropriate technique based on ball height

Key Teaching Points

Dig shot is specifically for low balls that cannot be volleyed
Platform created by forearms must be stable and parallel to ground
Power comes from legs straightening, not from swinging arms
Movement to ball position is essential before making contact
Communication and teamwork are crucial in game situations
Consistent practice leads to improved accuracy and confidence
Safety awareness during all ball contact activities

Common Misconceptions

That dig shot can be used for any height ball - correct by showing clear distinction between volley and dig situations
That arm swing provides the power - demonstrate how leg thrust creates controlled power
That hands should be separated during dig - show importance of locked hand position
That you can stay still and reach for balls - emphasise movement to ball first, then technique
That harder contact creates better digs - demonstrate control and cushioning for accuracy

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Keep activities short and varied, provide clear boundaries and expectations, offer regular positive feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment for easier handling, break down technique into smaller steps, provide extra practice time and patient instruction

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, offer quiet zones if overstimulated, use visual schedules for activity sequence

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls with sound makers, provide clear verbal descriptions of technique, use buddy system for positioning

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations and hand signals, provide written instruction cards, ensure clear line of sight for communication

physical disability

Adapt technique for seated position, use larger balls or balloon alternatives, modify distance and height requirements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, communication skills in partner work, following and giving instructions

Maths

Counting consecutive touches, measuring distances for spacing, angles of ball trajectory and platform positioning

Science

Forces and motion in ball contact, gravity affecting ball flight, biomechanics of efficient movement

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, directional movement, mapping court positions and movements

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when learning new skills, encouraging others and celebrating success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand where you can see all students, move between groups during practice activities

Observation Focus

Watch for correct forearm contact, body positioning, and movement to ball

Intervention Points

Step in when technique is unsafe, students are struggling, or activities need modification

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show technique clearly, demonstrate common mistakes to avoid

Verbal Cues

•'Platform stable!'
•'Move your feet first!'
•'Legs give the power!'
•'Cushion the contact!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 30m clear area with 3m clearance above playing surface

Surface Check

Dry, level surface free from obstacles, check for wet patches or hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check volleyballs are properly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure nets are securely fastened and at appropriate height
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impact injuries to face or body
•Collisions between students during movement
•Slips and falls on smooth surfaces
•Net entanglement or net post contact

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained
•Adequate spacing between working pairs/groups
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Emphasis on controlled movements and ball contact
•Clear communication protocols for group work

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all activities
•Monitor high-activity areas near nets
•Watch for signs of fatigue affecting technique
•Ensure safe ball contact methods are maintained

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or seek medical support as needed