Lesson 2 - Tactical Shot Selection
Competitive Doubles Play
•Year 6
•Tennis
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How can we outsmart our opponent by creating and exploiting space on the court?
Learning Objectives
- Develop tactical awareness of shot selection to win points
- Understand positioning and recovery in singles and doubles play
- Apply accurate serving and return techniques under game pressure
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate strategic thinking in shot placement
- Students will show improved court positioning and recovery
- Students will compete fairly while applying tennis scoring systems
Equipment & Resources Required
Check racket condition before distribution
Alternative: Table tennis bats, badminton rackets
Use lower pressure balls for easier control
Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags for beginners
Set up court boundaries and nets
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines
Place strategically around courts for ball collection
Alternative: Hula hoops, containers
Key Vocabulary
Balanced stance with knees slightly bent, racket up, ready to move in any direction
Hitting the ball to areas that force your opponent out of position
Moving back to the centre of the court after playing a shot
Choosing which shot to play based on your position and opponent's position
Where you stand on the court to best receive the next shot
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic forehand and backhand technique
- Understanding of tennis court areas
- Simple serving action
Current Skills
- Tactical shot selection under pressure
- Court positioning and recovery
- Strategic thinking in game situations
Next Steps
- Advanced doubles strategies
- Competitive tournament play
- Complex tactical combinations
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Space creation is the key to winning points in tennis
- Ready position and recovery are essential for court coverage
- Tactical shot selection depends on opponent position
- Fair play and sportsmanship are as important as winning
- Tennis scoring system follows specific progression (15-30-40-game)
- Serving accuracy is more important than power
- Observation and analysis improve tactical understanding
Common Misconceptions
- Hitting harder always wins points (accuracy and placement are more important)
- Always aim for the lines (safer shots to space are more effective)
- The ready position is only used when receiving serve (needed after every shot)
- Tennis is only about individual skill (tactical thinking is crucial)
- You must stay in one place (court movement and positioning are key)
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear role definitions, regular movement breaks between games
dyspraxia
- Larger balls and rackets, simplified tactical concepts, extra time for skill development
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available for breaks
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls and rackets, audio cues for court positioning, partner guidance system
hearing impairment
- Visual signals for tactical concepts, written score cards, clear visual demonstrations
physical disability
- Seated version with modified court size, lighter equipment, adapted scoring system
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Tennis scoring system (15, 30, 40), angles of shot placement, measuring court dimensions and distances
Science
Forces and motion in ball flight, effects of spin and pace, body biomechanics in tennis movements
Geography
Court positioning and spatial awareness, angles and directions, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Resilience in competitive situations, fair play and respect, managing emotions under pressure
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position allowing visibility of all courts, move actively between groups
Observation Focus
Watch for tactical shot selection, court positioning, and competitive behaviour
Intervention Points
["Step in when tactical concepts aren't being applied", "Support students struggling with scoring system", "Address any unfair play immediately"]
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for tactical concepts, show both correct and incorrect examples for clarity
Verbal Cues
- •'Hit to the space!'
- •'Quick recovery!'
- •'Where's your opponent standing?'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m for multiple courts, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Even, non-slip surface free from hazards, checked for debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check racket handles are secure and grips intact
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Use appropriate balls for skill level
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between players
- •Overexertion in competitive games
- •Racket contact injuries
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear court boundaries established with adequate spacing
- •Monitor intensity levels and provide rest breaks
- •Teach and enforce racket safety protocols
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all courts
- •Circulate actively during competitive play
- •Monitor for signs of fatigue or frustration
Emergency Procedures
Stop play immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, record any incidents