Lesson 5 - Finding Space & Pull
Skills To Strategy
•Year 6
•Ultimate Frisbee
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Distributed around playing area perimeter for easy access
Alternative: Standard frisbees if Ultimate discs unavailable
Mark out square areas and field boundaries
Alternative: Bean bags or markers
Clearly distinguish teams during game play
Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts
For recording communication and tactical play assessment
Alternative: Smartphone with video capability
Key Vocabulary
The opening throw that starts each point in Ultimate Frisbee, similar to a kick-off in football
The scoring area at each end of the Ultimate Frisbee field, similar to a try line in rugby
A quick passing combination where the frisbee is passed and immediately returned
Moving to an area away from defenders to receive a pass effectively
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
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.