Foundation Skills & Tactics
•Year 6
•Hockey
•Check appropriate length - stick should reach students' hip when standing upright
Alternative: Plastic hockey sticks for beginners
Tennis balls safer for beginners and provide good bounce for trapping practice
Alternative: Foam balls, plastic hockey balls
Used for area boundaries and positioning markers
Alternative: Markers, spots, bibs
For team identification in games
Alternative: Bibs, different coloured t-shirts
Stopping and controlling the ball using the forehand side of the hockey stick
Using the stick as a barrier low to the ground to stop the ball
Passing to a teammate then immediately moving to receive the ball back
Method of restarting play where two players tap sticks alternately before competing for the ball
Reading the pass and moving to stop the ball reaching the intended target
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Counting passes in games, measuring 2m zones, calculating success rates in give and go practice
Forces and cushioning in trapping technique, friction between stick and ball, angles of ball travel
Directions and spatial positioning on field, mapping movement patterns in Kings and Queens
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when learning new skills, fair play and respect for rules
Move around the class during practice, position at corner of game area for maximum visibility during Kings and Queens
Watch for correct grip and receiving technique, monitor ball control consistency, check tactical decision making in games
Step in if receiving technique deteriorating, if game becomes too physical, if students struggling with rules
Demonstrate receiving technique slowly and clearly, exaggerate key positions, use students as examples of good technique
Minimum 20m x 30m outdoor area or large sports hall, clear of obstacles
Even surface free from holes, wet areas, or debris that could cause slips
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact school procedures if required
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