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Lesson 6 - 3-Point Shooting Skills

Tactical Mastery & Techniques

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Year 6

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Basketball

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Big Question

How can understanding different scoring values help me make better tactical decisions in basketball?

Learning Objectives

Recognise the difference between 2 and 3 point shots and understand when different points are awarded
Challenge themselves to attempt a 3-point shot with correct technique
Apply all skills developed throughout the unit in competitive game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will accurately explain the 2 and 3-point scoring system
Students will demonstrate improved shooting technique from the 3-point line
Students will make tactical decisions about shot selection during games

Equipment & Resources Required

Basketball

1 per 2 students (15)

Pre-inflated to correct pressure, distributed around court perimeter

Alternative: Size 5 basketballs for easier handling

Basketball Hoops

4-6 courts/hoops

Height adjusted to 2.6m for Year 6 (or appropriate height for ability)

Alternative: Netball posts with basketball attachments, or wall-mounted hoops

Dish Cones

30 (5 per hoop)

Bright colours for visibility, positioned around 3-point arc

Alternative: Spots or markers

Whistles

2-3

For teacher and student referees

Alternative: Voice commands if whistles unavailable

Clipboards

For tracking game scores and statistics

Alternative: Mental scoring or mobile app

Bibs

2 sets of 15

Clearly distinguish teams during games

Alternative: Team bands or different coloured shirts

Key Vocabulary

3-point line

The arc marked on the court beyond which shots are worth 3 points

3-point shot

A shot attempted from beyond the 3-point line, worth 3 points if successful

Shot selection

The decision about when and where to attempt a shot based on the game situation

Square stance

Body position with shoulders facing directly towards the basket

Jump ball

Method of starting play where two players jump for a tossed ball

Quarter

One of four equal periods that make up a basketball game

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic shooting technique from close range
Dribbling skills including retreat dribble
V-cut movement to create space
Understanding of basic basketball rules

Current Skills

3-point shooting technique and positioning
Shot selection and tactical decision making
Game application of all unit skills
Understanding of scoring systems

Next Steps

Advanced shooting under defensive pressure
Complex team strategies and set plays
Leadership roles in competitive situations
Transition to adult basketball rules

Milestone Indicators

Consistent shooting form from 3-point range

Making appropriate shot selection decisions

Demonstrating all unit skills in game context

Understanding tactical implications of scoring system

Key Teaching Points

3-point shots require power from legs, not just arms - demonstrate proper weight transfer
Feet position behind 3-point line determines shot value - both feet must be clearly behind
Shooting technique remains consistent regardless of distance - don't change form for longer shots
Shot selection is tactical - consider game situation, time, and personal ability
All unit skills integrate in competitive games - V-cuts, retreat dribble, driving to basket
Teamwork and sportsmanship are as important as individual skill development
Basketball offers lifelong fitness and social opportunities beyond school

Common Misconceptions

Students think any shot from far away is worth 3 points - emphasise clear line boundaries
Belief that 3-point shots require completely different technique - show consistency with close shots
Assumption that only tall/strong students can shoot 3-pointers - demonstrate with various students
Thinking 3-point attempts are always the best choice - teach strategic shot selection
Believing competitive games don't require previously learned skills - reinforce skill integration
Misconception that basketball is only for certain body types - emphasise inclusivity and different roles

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear role definitions, regular position changes, positive reinforcement system

dyspraxia

Larger targets initially, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, peer support partnerships

autism spectrum

Clear routines for game structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available, consistent referee signals

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured basketballs, provide verbal descriptions of court layout and 3-point line position, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual signals for game starts/stops, clear visual demonstrations of techniques, written rule cards available

physical disability

Wheelchair basketball adaptations, modified hoop heights, seated shooting positions, adapted ball sizes

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating scores with 2 and 3-point values, tracking statistics during games, measuring 3-point distances and angles

Science

Understanding trajectory and arc in shooting, forces involved in ball flight, biomechanics of jumping and shooting motion

Geography

Court dimensions and spatial awareness, understanding positioning and movement patterns around the court

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competitive pressure, showing respect for teammates and opponents, resilience when facing challenges

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between multiple courts during games, position at corner for maximum visibility during shooting practice

Observation Focus

Watch for 3-point shooting technique, tactical application of unit skills, teamwork and sportsmanship in competitive situations

Intervention Points

Step in if shooting technique deteriorates under pressure, mediate disputes during competitive games, provide tactical coaching as needed

Demonstration Notes

Show 3-point shooting technique with exaggerated key points, demonstrate jump ball positioning, model positive sportsmanship and referee decisions

Verbal Cues

•'Power from legs, not just arms!'
•'Square shoulders to basket!'
•'Look for the V-cut space!'
•'Great team play!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Full basketball court or large hall (minimum 20m x 15m), multiple hoop access preferable

Surface Check

Non-slip court surface, dry and clean, free from obstacles and trip hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Basketballs properly inflated and in good condition
•Hoops securely mounted at appropriate height
•Cones with no sharp edges or damaged areas
•Court boundaries clearly marked

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between players during games
•Falls due to quick direction changes
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear rules about ball handling and passing
•Adequate spacing between courts and activities
•Progressive skill building before competitive games
•Regular water breaks and rest periods
•Clear boundaries and referee supervision

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all courts during games
•Monitor high-intensity areas like shooting stations
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Ensure fair play and appropriate contact levels

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately with whistle signal, assess injury severity, apply appropriate first aid, seek additional support if needed