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Lesson 1 - Passing and Moving in Space

Skills To Strategy

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Year 6

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Netball

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1h 10min

Big Question

How can we create space effectively to support our team and maintain possession?

Learning Objectives

To develop accurate passing techniques under pressure
To understand and apply effective movement patterns to create space
To demonstrate knowledge and application of netball rules

Key Outcomes

Students will pass and receive with increased control under pressure
Students will create and use space to help their team maintain possession
Students will apply netball rules consistently during game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Netball

15 (1 per 2 students)

Check all balls are properly inflated and safe to use

Alternative: Size 4 basketballs, large playground balls

Cones

Various colours helpful for different activities and clear boundary marking

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, chalk lines

Bibs

15 (for identifying teams)

Ensure clear distinction between teams for activities

Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts, arm bands

Key Vocabulary

Chest pass

A pass thrown from chest height using both hands, used over shorter distances

Shoulder pass

A one-handed pass thrown from shoulder height, used over longer distances

Footwork

The rule that prevents players from lifting and replacing their landing foot once they have caught the ball

Held ball

When a player holds the ball for longer than 4 seconds without passing or shooting

Contact

Illegal physical interference with an opponent's movement or play

Creating space

Moving to an area away from defenders to make it easier to receive a pass

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills from previous years
Understanding of personal space and moving safely
Introduction to team games and basic passing

Current Skills

Chest pass and shoulder pass technique development
Strategic movement to create and use space
Application of netball rules in game situations

Next Steps

Advanced passing techniques including bounce pass
Positional play and defensive strategies
Full 7-a-side netball game understanding

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate passing over varying distances

Automatic movement into space after passing

Self-regulation of footwork and contact rules

Key Teaching Points

Step forward when making any pass to generate power and accuracy
Use chest pass for short distances, shoulder pass for longer distances
Move immediately after passing to create new space for your team
Keep eyes up when moving to see available space and teammates
Footwork rule: never lift and replace your landing foot
Pass quickly but accurately - good passes help your team maintain possession
Create space by moving away from defenders, not towards them

Common Misconceptions

Thinking power is more important than accuracy in passing
Believing you should move only when the ball is coming to you
Assuming the chest pass can be used effectively over all distances
Misunderstanding that footwork means you can't move at all after catching
Thinking space creation means running randomly around the court

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear movement boundaries, regular specific feedback

dyspraxia

Larger balls for easier catching, reduced complexity initially, extra practice time for techniques

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual activity schedule, quiet zones available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, audio cues for passing direction, buddy system for movement

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for coaching, written rule cards

physical disability

Seated passing variations, modified distances, alternative throwing techniques

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting passes, measuring distances between players, calculating success rates

Science

Understanding forces in passing, trajectory and angles, body systems during exercise

Geography

Spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns, understanding directions and positions

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing competitive emotions, leadership development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move constantly between groups, positioning at corners for maximum court visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct passing technique, effective space creation, and adherence to netball rules

Intervention Points

Step in when safety is compromised, technique needs correction, or rules are being ignored

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements when demonstrating techniques. Position where all students can see clearly.

Verbal Cues

•'Step and push from chest!'
•'Find the space!'
•'Move after passing!'
•'Watch that footwork!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 30m (half netball court), clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris, water, or other slipping hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all netballs are properly inflated and free from damage
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify adequate ball storage during activities

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball impact injuries from hard passes
•Collisions between students during movement activities
•Slips and falls on court surface
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear boundaries and movement patterns
•Teach appropriate passing force for close distances
•Maintain adequate spacing between groups
•Monitor intensity and provide rest breaks

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Monitor high-activity areas during game situations
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required