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Big Question

How can mastering different shooting techniques give us tactical advantages in basketball games?

Learning Objectives

  • To perform a set shot with correct technique and balance
  • To execute a jump shot with proper timing and follow-through
  • To apply tactical decision-making when choosing between shooting techniques

Key Outcomes

  • Students will demonstrate both set shot and jump shot techniques with improving accuracy
  • Students will show understanding of when to use each shooting technique in game situations
  • Students will provide constructive feedback to partners using technical vocabulary

Equipment & Resources Required

Posts
4

Positioned around activity area with clear shooting zones

Alternative: Wall targets, hoops on stands, marked wall areas

Basketball
15 (1 per pair)

Distributed to pairs at start of lesson

Alternative: Size 5 balls for easier handling, foam balls for beginners

Cones
20

Used for positioning and boundary marking

Alternative: Markers, spot markers, chalk marks

Team bibs
5

For identifying roles in warm-up activity

Alternative: Coloured bibs, wristbands, pinnies

Key Vocabulary

Set Shot

A basketball shot taken from a stationary standing position

Jump Shot

A basketball shot released at the peak of a vertical jump

Follow-through

The continuation of arm movement after ball release, finishing with straight arm and downward wrist snap

Rebound

Retrieving the ball after a missed shot

Intercept

Gaining possession of the ball by blocking or catching an opponent's pass

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic ball handling and control skills
  • Understanding of basketball court and equipment
  • Experience with passing and catching

Current Skills

  • Set shot technique development
  • Jump shot execution and timing
  • Tactical shooting decision-making

Next Steps

  • Advanced shooting under pressure
  • Combination moves leading to shots
  • Full game application with multiple shooting options

Milestone Indicators

1
Consistent balance throughout shooting motion
2
Smooth coordination of jump and release timing
3
Tactical awareness of when to use each shot type

Key Teaching Points

  • Balance is the foundation of all good shooting - feet shoulder-width apart
  • Shooting elbow must be directly under the ball for accurate trajectory
  • Eyes stay focused on target throughout entire shooting motion
  • Follow-through is essential - finish with straight arm pointing down
  • Jump shot timing is critical - release at peak of jump
  • Choose shot type based on defensive pressure and position
  • Positive feedback helps everyone improve faster than criticism

Common Misconceptions

  • Thinking power is more important than technique for accurate shooting
  • Believing jump shots are always better than set shots
  • Assuming you should always shoot when you have the ball
  • Focusing only on individual success rather than team improvement
  • Expecting immediate mastery without consistent practice
  • Thinking defensive pressure means you can't be successful

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear and immediate feedback, offer additional physical outlet during transitions
dyspraxia
  • Use larger, lighter balls initially, provide additional practice time, break down movements into smaller components
autism spectrum
  • Provide clear routine and structure, offer quiet spaces if overwhelmed, use visual schedule for lesson progression
visual impairment
  • Use bright coloured balls and posts, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, pair with sighted buddy for support
hearing impairment
  • Use visual demonstrations and hand signals, provide written instruction cards, ensure clear sight lines to teacher
physical disability
  • Adapt shooting positions (seated options), use lighter balls or lower targets, modify jumping requirements as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Angle calculations for shooting trajectory, distance measurement for cone placement, scoring and statistics tracking

Science

Forces and motion in ball flight, gravity effects on jump shots, energy transfer in shooting action

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of court dimensions and zones

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, giving and receiving constructive feedback, resilience when facing challenges

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move strategically between basketball posts during practice, position centrally during demonstrations for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct shooting form development, safe movement patterns, positive peer interactions, tactical understanding

Intervention Points

Step in if technique deteriorates significantly, if safety concerns arise, if students need additional challenge or support

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements during technique demonstration, show common mistakes and corrections, involve confident students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues
  • 'Balance first, then shoot!'
  • 'Eyes on target throughout!'
  • 'Release at the peak!'
  • 'Follow through to the floor!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Indoor sports hall or outdoor court with minimum 4 basketball posts, clear shooting areas around each post

Surface Check

Non-slip, level surface free from water, debris, or obstacles that could cause trips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Check basketballs are properly inflated and in good condition
  • Ensure basketball posts are secure and nets properly attached
  • Verify cones have no sharp edges or cracks
  • Team bands checked for secure fastenings

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Ball strikes to head or body during rebounds
  • Collisions during warm-up activities and games
  • Falls during jumping movements
  • Contact during defensive activities
Risk Mitigation
  • Clear boundaries established for all activities
  • Emphasis on controlled movement and spatial awareness
  • Progressive skill building from stationary to dynamic activities
  • Safe rebounding techniques taught and reinforced
  • Controlled contact rules for defensive activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position for maximum visibility of all post areas during shooting practice
  • Move between groups during skill development to provide support
  • Monitor game activities closely for safe contact and fair play
  • Watch for fatigue and adjustment needs throughout lesson
Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if needed