Lesson 4 - Game Play and Tactical Awareness
Lacrosse Fundamentals & Skills
•Year 6
•Lacrosse
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we use tactical awareness and precise skills to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities in lacrosse?
Learning Objectives
- To demonstrate proficient lacrosse skills (cradling, scooping, throwing, catching, shooting) in competitive game situations
- To apply tactical understanding of space, timing and movement in invasion games
- To show leadership and communication skills whilst working as part of a team
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully execute lacrosse skills under pressure in game situations
- Students will demonstrate tactical awareness through effective positioning and decision-making
- Students will communicate effectively to support team performance and show good sportsmanship
Equipment & Resources Required
Check stick condition and appropriate size for each student
Alternative: Hockey sticks with scoops, improvised catching implements
Inspect for damage, have extras ready for quick replacement
Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls for safety
Bright colours for clear visibility, various sizes available
Alternative: Markers, spots, bean bags
Large hoops for target practice, stable placement
Alternative: Rope circles, chalked circles
Contrasting colours for clear team identification
Alternative: Coloured bands, pinnies
For central reference points in circle activities
Alternative: Small cones, chalk marks
Key Vocabulary
Protective ball control technique using rhythmic stick movement
Understanding when and where to move, pass, or shoot based on game situation
Limited time a player can hold the ball before passing or shooting
Quick change from attack to defence or vice versa
Moving to find gaps in opponent's defence for receiving or attacking
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic lacrosse stick handling and ball control
- Fundamental throwing and catching techniques
- Understanding of invasion game principles
Current Skills
- Game application of all lacrosse skills
- Tactical awareness in competitive situations
- Advanced passing accuracy under pressure
Next Steps
- Advanced game strategies and set plays
- Leadership roles in game management
- Inter-school competition preparation
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Maintain 3-second possession rule consistently to develop quick decision-making
- Emphasise communication as key to successful team play and defensive/attacking success
- Focus on accuracy and technique over power in all throwing and catching situations
- Encourage tactical awareness through questioning and observation of game situations
- Develop leadership skills through peer support and positive encouragement
- Use progressive challenge to maintain engagement while ensuring success for all
- Link individual skill development to team game application throughout the lesson
Common Misconceptions
- That running with the ball is always allowed in lacrosse - clarify possession rules
- That throwing hard always equals throwing accurately - emphasise control over power
- That only the most skilled players can be good team members - highlight communication and support roles
- That winning is more important than technique - maintain focus on skill development
- That game rules can't be modified - explain adaptations help learning and inclusion
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, regular movement breaks, clear boundaries and expectations
dyspraxia
- Larger balls and simplified skills initially, extra practice time, breaking skills into smaller steps, peer support
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual timetable of activities, quiet zones available if overwhelmed, predictable game rules
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide clear verbal descriptions of all activities, buddy system for guidance and support
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations and signals, written rule cards, ensure facing student when giving instructions
physical disability
- Modify stick length and weight, seated versions of catching activities, adapted throwing distances and techniques
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting scores and tracking game statistics, measuring distances for activities, calculating time limits and rotations
Science
Understanding forces in throwing and catching, body systems during exercise, physics of ball flight and accuracy
Geography
Spatial awareness and court positioning, understanding directions and movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and communication skills, leadership development, resilience and perseverance, respect and sportsmanship
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around the perimeter during games for complete visibility, central position during skill demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for tactical understanding, skill consistency under pressure, communication quality, and sporting behaviour
Intervention Points
Step in for safety concerns, provide tactical coaching during natural breaks, support struggling students
Demonstration Notes
Use students as positive examples where possible, emphasise key coaching points clearly, maintain lesson flow
Verbal Cues
- •'Find space and communicate!'
- •'Use the full width!'
- •'Quick passing, keep possession!'
- •'Great tactical awareness!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Full netball court or equivalent (30m x 15m minimum), additional overflow areas for skill stations
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, goal posts and court markings clearly visible
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Lacrosse sticks checked for damage and appropriate size
- •Balls inspected for wear and proper inflation
- •Hoops and cones stable and visible
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Stick contact during close play
- •Ball strikes to head or body
- •Collisions during game situations
- •Overexertion in competitive activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Strict no-contact rules enforced throughout
- •Progressive skill development before full games
- •Clear boundaries and playing areas established
- •Regular rest periods and hydration breaks
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all activities
- •Monitor competitive intensity for safety
- •Ensure equipment is used correctly
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or seek additional support as needed