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Lesson 5 - Finding Space & Pull

Skills To Strategy

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Year 6

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Ultimate Frisbee

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Big Question

How can we find space under pressure and use the 'Pull' to start a game tactically?

Learning Objectives

To develop the ability to find space in tight situations during Ultimate Frisbee
To understand and execute the 'Pull' technique as a game starter
To demonstrate purposeful play in both defensive and attacking roles

Key Outcomes

Students will consistently find space under pressure from defenders
Students will execute accurate Pull throws to start games tactically
Students will contribute meaningfully in both attacking and defensive phases of play

Equipment & Resources Required

Frisbees

11 discs (1 per 2-3 students)

Distributed around playing area perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Standard frisbees if Ultimate discs unavailable

Cones

16 cones

Mark out square areas and field boundaries

Alternative: Bean bags or markers

Coloured Bibs

15 bibs (2 colours)

Clearly distinguish teams during game play

Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts

Digital Cameras

1 device

For recording communication and tactical play assessment

Alternative: Smartphone with video capability

Key Vocabulary

Pull

The opening throw that starts each point in Ultimate Frisbee, similar to a kick-off in football

End Zone

The scoring area at each end of the Ultimate Frisbee field, similar to a try line in rugby

One-Two Pass

A quick passing combination where the frisbee is passed and immediately returned

Finding Space

Moving to an area away from defenders to receive a pass effectively

Diagonal Run

An angled run forward that confuses defenders and creates space

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic frisbee throwing and catching techniques
Understanding of attacking and defending concepts
Experience working in small groups and teams

Current Skills

Finding space under defensive pressure
Executing the Pull throw technique
Playing purposefully in attack and defence

Next Steps

Advanced tactical play in full Ultimate Frisbee games
Specialised offensive and defensive strategies
Tournament play with complex rule adaptations

Milestone Indicators

Consistently evades defenders to receive passes

Pull throws reach target area 8/10 times

Makes 3+ successful contributions per game in attack and defence

Key Teaching Points

Pull throw requires full body rotation and step forward for maximum distance and accuracy
Space-finding success depends on sharp direction changes and timing, not just speed
Communication must be clear and supportive, especially during pressure situations
One-two passing requires immediate returns and movement timing from the original thrower
Diagonal runs forward create confusion for defenders and open up scoring opportunities
End Zone scoring requires catching the frisbee in the zone, not running into it with possession

Common Misconceptions

Pull throw is just a hard throw - actually requires technique and accuracy, not just power
Finding space means running faster - actually needs sharp direction changes and timing
Good communication means talking lots - should be clear, purposeful, and supportive
Ultimate Frisbee is just throwing and catching - requires significant tactical understanding and teamwork
Defending means staying close to attacker - should anticipate movement and intercept passes

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent position changes and active roles. Clear, simple instructions for each activity. Regular positive feedback for sustained attention and effort.

dyspraxia

Larger target areas for Pull throws. Extra practice time with throwing technique. Simplified movement patterns in space-finding activities.

autism spectrum

Clear routine for equipment setup and collection. Visual schedule showing lesson progression. Quiet area available if overstimulation occurs during games.

visual impairment

Use bright coloured frisbees with sound-making additions. Verbal descriptions of space-finding movements. Buddy system for court positioning.

hearing impairment

Visual signals for game starts and stops. Written rule explanations available. Clear visual demonstrations of all techniques and tactics.

physical disability

Modified Pull throw from seated position. Adapted space-finding activities with reduced movement demands. Alternative scoring methods if catching difficult.

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Forces involved in Pull throws, air resistance affecting frisbee flight, rotation and momentum in throwing technique

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding angles and directions, tactical use of field geography

PSHE

Teamwork under pressure, resilience when activities are challenging, leadership during tactical discussions

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around playing area perimeter to observe all groups. During game, position between courts for maximum visibility of tactical play.

Observation Focus

Watch for successful space-finding movements, Pull technique development, and positive communication between teammates during pressure situations.

Intervention Points

Step in if defensive pressure becomes excessive, if Pull throws are consistently poor, or if communication breaks down during team activities.

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate Pull throw with exaggerated body rotation and step. Show space-finding with dramatic direction changes that students can clearly see and copy.

Verbal Cues

•'Sharp change of direction!'
•'Step and rotate for the Pull!'
•'Find the space away from defenders!'
•'Quick pass, keep it moving!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Full netball court (30m x 15m minimum) or equivalent marked area with clear End Zones

Surface Check

Even surface free from water, debris, or hazardous objects. Indoor court preferred in wet conditions

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Ultimate Frisbees checked for cracks or damage before use
•Cones positioned safely away from running lines
•Bibs distributed without sharp edges or torn material

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during space-finding activities
•Frisbee impacts from poor throws or catches
•Slips during direction changes and diagonal runs

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and communicated
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic activities
•Supervised contact during contested catches
•Appropriate defensive pressure levels monitored

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during space-finding activities
•Monitor physical challenge levels in defended situations
•Ensure fair play and appropriate contact during games

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if collision occurs. Assess injury following school protocol. First aid trained staff member to attend any impact injuries.