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Lesson 4 - Attacking Skills & Defence

Team Strategy & Skills Integration

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Year 6

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Hockey

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Big Question

How can we work together as attackers to outsmart defenders and create scoring opportunities?

Learning Objectives

To develop partnership work in attacking situations against defenders
To master a range of attacking skills including dribbling, passing and movement
To understand tactical decision-making in attack and defence

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully execute attacking moves with a partner to beat defenders
Students will demonstrate improved stick work and ball control under pressure
Students will make tactical decisions about when to pass and when to dribble

Equipment & Resources Required

Hockey sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks are right-handed and appropriate size

Alternative: Quick sticks for beginners

Hockey balls

1 per student + 6 spares

Ensure balls are regulation weight and not damaged

Alternative: Foam balls for indoor use

Cones

30-40 mixed colours

Use bright colours for visibility, check stability

Alternative: Dome markers or spots

Small Goal

6 (for 3 pitches)

Position securely, check for sharp edges

Alternative: Cone gates 2m wide

Bibs

15 (one colour for team identification)

Ensure good contrast between teams

Alternative: Coloured bands or sashes

Key Vocabulary

Indian Dribbling

Moving the ball from left to right using both sides of the stick blade

Straight Dribbling

Keeping the ball in constant contact with the stick while moving forward

Reverse Stick

Playing the ball with the back of the stick blade

Jockeying

Defensive technique of staying balanced and ready to move in any direction

Close the Space

Moving quickly to reduce the distance between defender and attacker

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic stick grip and ball control
Simple dribbling in straight lines
Understanding of hockey safety rules

Current Skills

Advanced dribbling techniques (straight, loose, Indian)
Partnership attacking strategies
Defensive positioning and jockeying

Next Steps

Small-sided games with multiple attackers and defenders
Set piece attacking moves
Advanced defensive formations

Milestone Indicators

Consistent ball control under pressure

Successful completion of attacking moves

Effective defensive positioning

Key Teaching Points

Correct stick grip with left hand at top, right hand provides control
Ball must stay in contact with stick during straight dribbling
Head up awareness essential for safety and tactical play
Communication between attacking partners creates opportunities
Defenders must close space quickly then jockey and pressure
Decision-making improves through practice and reflection
Different dribbling techniques serve different tactical purposes

Common Misconceptions

That hockey sticks can be held either way - all sticks are right-handed only
That speed is more important than control - control enables speed
That defenders should commit early - patience and positioning are key
That one dribbling technique works in all situations - variety creates unpredictability
That individual skill is enough - teamwork multiplies effectiveness

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with regular changes, clear physical boundaries, immediate feedback and encouragement

dyspraxia

Larger equipment options, reduced complexity in multi-step activities, extra practice time for skill development

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, allow breaks if overwhelmed, use visual schedules for activity sequence

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and cones, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, assign sighted buddy

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for start/stop, provide written key points, ensure clear line of sight for demonstrations

physical disability

Modify stick grip with tape, allow seated play options, adjust movement distances and speeds

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating points in numbers game, measuring distances for cone placement, angles of movement and passing

Science

Forces in stick and ball contact, friction between ball and surface, momentum in movement

Geography

Spatial awareness, directional movement, mapping attacking routes and defensive positioning

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing defenders, managing competitive emotions

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Corner position for maximum visibility, move between groups during rotations

Observation Focus

Watch for technical improvement, tactical understanding, and safe play

Intervention Points

Step in if safety concerns arise or when students need technique clarification

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, slow demonstrations first, then normal speed with key points emphasised

Verbal Cues

•'Stick control first, speed second!'
•'Head up, see the space!'
•'Communicate with your partner!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m outdoor area, or large sports hall

Surface Check

Level surface free from holes, debris, or wet patches

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check hockey sticks for cracks or splinters
•Ensure balls are not split or damaged
•Verify cones are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick contact between students
•Collisions during fast movement
•Ball strikes to other students

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise stick control and flat side usage
•Clear boundaries and designated movement areas
•Progressive skill building before competitive elements
•Adequate spacing between practice groups

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all activity areas
•Monitor high-activity zones during numbers game
•Watch for fatigue affecting control and safety

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, adjust activity if needed