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Lesson 4 - First Touch Control

Advanced Techniques & Tactics

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Year 6

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Football

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45 min

Big Question

How can mastering first touch control transform your football game and help you stay ahead of defenders?

Learning Objectives

To develop first touch control using different parts of the body
To control the ball with increasing precision under pressure
To use first touch to direct the ball away from defenders into space

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved first touch control using foot, thigh, chest and head
Students will show the ability to direct the ball purposefully on first touch
Students will apply first touch skills effectively in game situations under pressure

Equipment & Resources Required

Softballs

1 per student (30)

Distributed around area perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Size 3 footballs for smaller hands, deflated balls for easier control practice

Cones

30 mixed colours

Various colours needed for directional control activities

Alternative: Markers, spots, or bean bags for target practice

Team bibs

15 sets

For distinguishing teams in small-sided games

Alternative: Different coloured shirts or simple armbands

Key Vocabulary

First Touch

The initial contact with the ball when receiving it from a pass or loose ball

Cushioning

Reducing the power of the ball by moving the body part backwards on contact

Directional Control

Using first touch to deliberately move the ball in a chosen direction

Body Positioning

Getting your body in line with the approaching ball for optimal control

Space

Areas on the pitch where there are no opponents, allowing safe ball control

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball control with feet
Simple passing and receiving techniques
Understanding of personal space and movement

Current Skills

First touch control using multiple body parts
Cushioning technique to absorb ball power
Directional control to move ball into space

Next Steps

Advanced ball manipulation under pressure
Combination play linking first touch with immediate action
Reading game situations to choose optimal first touch

Milestone Indicators

Student can consistently control ball on first touch using preferred body part

Student demonstrates understanding of cushioning technique

Student shows improved confidence when receiving ball under pressure

Key Teaching Points

First touch is about direction and purpose, not just control
Cushioning technique absorbs ball energy through backward movement
Early decision-making about body part selection while ball is in flight
Body positioning and balance are crucial for effective first touch
Learning new skills requires patience, persistence and positive attitude
First touch creates time and space away from defensive pressure
Movement with the ball after first touch is more effective than static control

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'First touch is just about stopping the ball' - Actually: First touch should move ball purposefully into space
Misconception: 'Harder contact gives better control' - Actually: Cushioning with gentle contact provides superior control
Misconception: 'Only feet matter for ball control' - Actually: Thigh, chest and head are equally important control surfaces
Misconception: 'Learning should be immediate and easy' - Actually: Skill development requires time, practice and persistence
Misconception: 'Mistakes mean you're not good at football' - Actually: Mistakes are essential part of learning process

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide frequent positive feedback, allow movement breaks as needed

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment, slow down demonstrations, allow extra practice time, focus on one body part at a time

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured footballs and cones, provide clear verbal descriptions of demonstrations, ensure buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations extensively, hand signals for key instructions, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Adapt to seated position for upper body control, use larger/softer balls, reduce distances and pressure requirements

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Angles of body parts affecting ball direction, counting consecutive passes, measuring distances for partner activities

Science

Forces and motion in ball control, momentum and energy transfer during cushioning, body mechanics and balance

Geography

Spatial awareness and direction, understanding of personal and general space, map-like thinking for field positioning

PSHE

Perseverance and resilience when learning difficult skills, teamwork and communication, dealing with frustration and mistakes

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all groups, position centrally during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for cushioning technique, body positioning, and decision-making under pressure

Intervention Points

Step in when safety concerns arise, technique needs correction, or students show frustration

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for visibility, contrast good vs poor technique, involve students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Soft touches, cushion the ball!'
•'Get in line with the ball!'
•'Move with the ball, don't just control it!'
•'Decide quickly which body part to use!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear area, additional space for multiple practice zones

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, glass, or sharp objects

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check footballs are properly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure cones have no sharp or broken edges
•Verify team bands are not torn or have sharp clasps

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head/face during throwing activities
•Collisions during small-sided games
•Slips and falls on potentially wet surfaces
•Overexertion during continuous activity

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing technique demonstrated to avoid head strikes
•Adequate space between activity areas
•Progressive skill building to avoid frustration injuries
•Regular hydration breaks if needed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all activity areas
•Monitor throwing activities for safety compliance
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Ensure equipment remains within designated areas

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately on injury, assess severity, apply appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required