Lesson 5 - Blocking and Defensive Tactics
Skill Mastery & Sportsmanship
•Year 6
•Dodgeball
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How can we use blocking techniques and tactical thinking to become better defenders in dodgeball?
Learning Objectives
- To develop effective blocking techniques using a dodgeball
- To apply blocking skills in competitive game situations
- To understand and implement defensive tactics in team games
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate proficient blocking technique with two-handed grip
- Students will apply blocking skills effectively in game scenarios
- Students will work collaboratively to protect teammates using tactical positioning
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute balls around court perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Foam balls, playground balls (ensure safe, age-appropriate size)
Create multiple court boundaries and activity zones
Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk lines for boundaries
Key Vocabulary
Using a ball held firmly in both hands to deflect incoming throws
A ball that has been thrown and hasn't touched the ground or wall
Athletic stance with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, holding ball ready
A designated team member whose elimination results in the entire team being out
Planned strategies to protect team members and maintain defensive advantages
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic catching and throwing techniques
- Understanding of dodgeball rules
- Experience with evasion movements
Current Skills
- Two-handed blocking grip and stance
- Tracking moving balls for defensive positioning
- Protective tactics for team members
Next Steps
- Advanced blocking under pressure
- Complex team defensive strategies
- Tournament-style gameplay
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Firm two-handed grip essential for effective blocking
- Ready position with bent knees and ball at chest level
- Track incoming ball with eyes, move blocking ball to intercept
- Protective tactics require communication and positioning
- Fair play and safety more important than winning
- Golden player concept teaches team responsibility
- Blocking ball knocked from hands counts as elimination
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking blocking is passive - actually requires active movement and positioning
- Believing harder throws are always better - control and accuracy more effective
- Assuming individual skills more important than team tactics
- Thinking rules can be bent for advantage - fair play is fundamental
- Believing blocking only protects self - can be used to protect teammates
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear role definitions, frequent position changes, positive reinforcement for focus
dyspraxia
- Larger balls for easier handling, simplified blocking movements, extra demonstration time, partner support available
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet area available for breaks, consistent rules and expectations
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls, verbal warnings for incoming throws, buddy system for guidance, tactile boundary markers
hearing impairment
- Visual signals for start/stop, clear demonstration of all techniques, written instruction cards, facial expressions for communication
physical disability
- Seated blocking variations, larger/lighter balls, modified throwing distances, wheelchair-accessible playing areas
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Geometry - angles of throws and blocking positions, measuring court dimensions, counting successful blocks
Science
Forces - understanding impact and deflection, physics of ball collisions, reaction times
Geography
Spatial awareness, positioning and movement patterns, understanding of boundaries and territories
PSHE
Teamwork, communication, protecting others, fair play and respect for rules
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around activities to observe all students, position for maximum visibility during games
Observation Focus
Watch for firm blocking grip, appropriate throwing force, tactical cooperation
Intervention Points
Step in if throwing becomes too aggressive, if students struggle with technique, or if game becomes unfair
Demonstration Notes
Use students as positive examples where possible, demonstrate all key techniques clearly before practice
Verbal Cues
- •'Firm grip!'
- •'Watch the ball!'
- •'Protect your golden player!'
- •'Two hands on your blocking ball!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Full sports hall or large outdoor area, minimum 20m x 15m clear space
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, free from obstacles, adequate space around boundaries
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check dodgeballs are properly inflated and undamaged
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Balls appropriate size for Year 6 students
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impact injuries from hard throws
- •Collisions during fast movement
- •Finger injuries from poor catching/blocking
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise controlled throwing force throughout
- •Clear boundaries and adequate spacing maintained
- •Two-handed grip technique reduces finger injury risk
- •Immediate stop signal established and practised
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all activities
- •Monitor throwing force and technique
- •Watch for students becoming over-competitive
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, apply first aid if trained, seek additional help as needed