Lesson 4 - Split Step and Court Movement
Technical to Tactical Progression
•Year 6
•Badminton
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can I use movement and positioning to outwit my opponent in badminton?
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate a split step and understand its tactical application
- Perform chasse movement to reach shots efficiently
- Execute deft touch shots with control and precision
Key Outcomes
- Students will move efficiently around the court using split step and chasse techniques
- Students will demonstrate tactical awareness by targeting opponent weaknesses
- Students will link movement skills to perform effective shot sequences
Equipment & Resources Required
Check racket strings and handle grip before lesson
Alternative: Short tennis rackets for students with coordination difficulties
Mix of speeds - use slower shuttles for touch work
Alternative: Foam balls for initial practice with students needing easier target
Use for marking feeding positions and target areas
Alternative: Chalk lines or tape for court boundaries
Ensure battery charged and memory available for recording
Alternative: Smartphone for recording assessment evidence
Key Vocabulary
A small jump where both feet land simultaneously, preparing the body to move quickly in any direction
Moving both feet simultaneously while maintaining balance, bringing feet closer in the air before landing
Gentle, controlled shots played with finesse rather than power, often used for tactical advantage
Strategic placement on court to cover maximum area and respond to opponent shots
Understanding where to place shots to create difficulties for the opponent
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic badminton grip and stance
- Simple forehand and backhand shots
- Basic court positioning and movement
Current Skills
- Split step footwork technique
- Chasse movement to reach shots
- Deft touch shots for tactical play
Next Steps
- Advanced footwork patterns
- Deceptive shot techniques
- Complex tactical game play
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Split step timing is crucial - just as opponent contacts shuttle
- Chasse movement requires both feet off ground simultaneously
- Touch shots need loose grip and controlled swing
- Court positioning is as important as shot technique
- Movement and shot execution must be linked smoothly
- Tactical thinking develops through game application
- Encourage experimentation with different grips and shots
Common Misconceptions
- Split step should be a big jump - actually it's a small preparatory hop
- Faster movement is always better - controlled movement is more effective
- Touch shots are just weak shots - they require specific technique and timing
- You should hit every shot as hard as possible - placement and tactics are more important
- Footwork isn't important if you can reach the shuttle - proper footwork improves shot quality
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries, give specific roles and responsibilities
dyspraxia
- Simplify movement patterns initially, provide extra practice time, use verbal cues for timing
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedules, create quiet zones for breaks if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured shuttlecocks, provide clear verbal descriptions of movements, establish consistent court reference points
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations extensively, establish clear hand signals, provide written instruction cards
physical disability
- Modify movement requirements to seated or supported positions, adjust court size, use larger/slower equipment
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Angles of shuttle flight, measuring court distances, calculating scoring systems and time intervals
Science
Forces in shuttle flight, physics of racket strings, biomechanics of efficient movement patterns
Geography
Spatial awareness and court positioning, understanding directions and movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when learning new skills, fair play and sporting behaviour
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position at corner of activity area for maximum visibility of all students, move between groups during practice phases
Observation Focus
Watch for correct footwork technique, safe spacing, and progressive skill development
Intervention Points
Step in if technique is unsafe, students are too close together, or if frustration levels are high
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements initially to show technique clearly, then demonstrate at realistic speed and intensity
Verbal Cues
- •'Both feet together in the air!'
- •'Soft hands for touch shots!'
- •'Split step as they hit!'
- •'Chasse to the shuttle, don't run!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Full badminton court or equivalent space (13.4m x 6.1m minimum per court), clear overhead space for shuttle flight
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, clear of water or debris, appropriate court markings visible
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all racket strings are intact and handles secure
- •Inspect shuttlecocks for damage that could affect flight
- •Ensure nets are properly tensioned and secure
- •Verify cones/markers are stable and visible
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision between students during movement practice
- •Racket contact during close gameplay
- •Slips during rapid direction changes
- •Shuttle strikes to eyes or face
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear spacing guidelines for all activities
- •Emphasis on controlled movement over speed
- •Progression from static to dynamic activities
- •Eye protection awareness and safe shuttle handling
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all groups during practices
- •Monitor spacing between students during movement work
- •Watch for proper technique to prevent injury
- •Ensure safe equipment handling throughout
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, apply first aid if trained, seek additional support as needed, complete accident reporting