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Lesson 5 - Blocking and Defensive Tactics

Skill Mastery & Sportsmanship

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Year 6

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Dodgeball

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1h 5min

Big Question

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

Dodgeball

30 (class of 30)

Distribute balls around court perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Foam balls, playground balls (ensure safe, age-appropriate size)

Cones

Create multiple court boundaries and activity zones

Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk lines for boundaries

Key Vocabulary

Blocking

Using a ball held firmly in both hands to deflect incoming throws

Live ball

A ball that has been thrown and hasn't touched the ground or wall

Ready position

Athletic stance with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, holding ball ready

Golden player

A designated team member whose elimination results in the entire team being out

Defensive tactics

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

Maintains firm grip during contact

Anticipates throw direction effectively

Communicates defensive plans clearly

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