Lesson 4 - Dig Shot Development
Volleyball Foundations & Skills
•Year 5
•Volleyball
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Distribute around court perimeter before lesson
Alternative: Playground balls, foam volleyballs for beginners
Use to mark court boundaries and target areas
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or other boundary markers
Key Vocabulary
A volleyball technique used when the ball is too low to volley, using the forearms to contact the ball
The part of the arm between the wrist and elbow, used as the contact surface for digging
Athletic stance with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, ready to move in any direction
The flat surface created by joining forearms together for digging
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
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