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Lesson 5 - Advanced Spiking Techniques

Tactics & Game Strategy

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Year 6

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Volleyball

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Big Question

How can we use unpredictable attacking patterns and communication to outmanoeuvre opponents in volleyball?

Learning Objectives

To develop advanced spiking techniques with elevation timing and diagonal runs
To understand defensive blocking angles and tactical positioning
To apply flexible tactical strategies within competitive game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will execute timed runs from the back court to spike set balls effectively
Students will demonstrate tactical awareness by varying attacking patterns to deceive opponents
Students will work collaboratively using effective communication and defined team roles

Equipment & Resources Required

Volleyballs

2-3 nets

Distribute around court perimeter for easy access during activities

Alternative: Large playground balls or soft volleyballs for safety

Softball

6-8 balls

Positioned at sides of court for Boulders warm-up activity

Alternative: Bean bags or foam balls

Cones

20 cones

Mark court boundaries, net lines if no net available, and positional markers

Alternative: Spots or markers

Tablets

1 device

For recording tactical play and providing feedback to groups

Alternative: Smartphone with video capability

Key Vocabulary

Spike

An attacking shot where the ball is hit forcefully downward over the net

Set

A deliberate pass positioned high and close to the net for a teammate to spike

Block

A defensive move at the net to deflect or stop an opponent's attack

Dig

A defensive technique to retrieve a hard-hit ball close to the ground

Rotation

The clockwise movement of players to new positions after winning the serve

Elevation

The height and timing of a jump to attack the ball at the optimal point

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic underarm serving technique
Fundamental bumping and digging skills
Simple setting from static positions
Understanding of basic volleyball rules and rotation

Current Skills

Advanced spiking with timed runs and elevation
Tactical blocking with directional control
Flexible positioning and unpredictable attack patterns
Collaborative team roles and communication strategies

Next Steps

Complex tactical systems with multiple attack options
Advanced defensive formations and counter-attacks
Leadership roles in directing team strategy
Tournament-style competitive play with officiating

Milestone Indicators

Consistent timing of spike runs from back court

Effective use of diagonal and straight attacking runs

Clear communication and defined team roles

Application of tactics to outmanoeuvre opponents

Key Teaching Points

Timing of spike approaches is crucial - start the run as the set begins its upward trajectory
Effective teamwork requires designated roles and clear communication systems
Tactical deception comes from making all attacking options look equally viable
Elevation and ball contact at the highest point maximises spiking power and accuracy
Blocking angles should direct the ball downward rather than back to opponents
Flexible positioning allows teams to adapt to different game situations
Quality setting creates attacking opportunities and makes spikers more effective

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking they must always spike hard rather than placement and timing being key
Believing that the setter should always choose the same spiker rather than varying options tactically
Assuming blocking is just jumping with arms up rather than angling to direct the ball downward
Thinking communication means shouting rather than clear, purposeful tactical information
Believing individual skills are more important than team coordination and tactics
Misconception that volleyball requires no strategy, just good individual technique

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and movement expectations, offer leadership roles for engagement

dyspraxia

Simplify movement patterns initially, provide extra practice time, use visual cues for technique and positioning

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and predictable routines, offer quiet zones if overwhelmed, use visual supports for tactics

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of court layout, implement buddy system for positioning guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, establish hand signals for communication, provide written tactics sheets

physical disability

Adapt spiking to seated position, modify court size for wheelchair access, use larger/softer balls for easier handling

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating angles for effective spikes and blocks, measuring court dimensions and net heights, timing and sequencing of movements

Science

Understanding forces and trajectory in ball flight, studying biomechanics of jumping and elevation, exploring physics of ball contact and rebounds

Geography

Understanding spatial awareness and positioning, mapping court areas and movement patterns, directional awareness in tactical play

PSHE

Developing teamwork and communication skills, managing competitive emotions, building resilience and supporting others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the perimeter to observe all groups, position centrally during demonstrations, maintain sight lines to all activities

Observation Focus

Watch for tactical decision-making, quality of communication, technical execution under pressure, and collaborative behaviours

Intervention Points

["Step in if technical practice becomes unsafe", "Support groups struggling with tactical concepts", "Challenge advanced students with additional complexity", "Address any negative team dynamics immediately"]

Demonstration Notes

Use confident students to model excellent technique, clearly show timing and tactical concepts, exaggerate key points for visibility across the group

Verbal Cues

•'Time your run to meet the ball at its peak!'
•'Communicate with your teammates!'
•'Be unpredictable - vary your attacks!'
•'Work together to create the best attacking opportunity!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Full sports hall or large outdoor area with minimum 18m x 9m per court, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, even and free from hazards, suitable for jumping and dynamic movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check volleyballs are properly inflated and free from damage
•Ensure nets are securely fastened and at appropriate height
•Verify soft balls for warm-up are in good condition
•Confirm cones/markers are visible and stable

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during multi-directional movement and jumping
•Falls from elevation during spiking and blocking
•Contact with net during play
•Ball strikes to head or body during intense rallies

Risk Mitigation

•Maintain adequate spacing between practice groups and courts
•Teach and reinforce safe landing techniques
•Emphasise controlled approaches and respect for net boundaries
•Monitor intensity levels and competitive behaviour

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all courts and practice areas
•Pay particular attention to blocking and spiking activities
•Monitor warm-up for appropriate throwing technique and intensity
•Watch for signs of fatigue affecting technique and safety

Emergency Procedures

Stop play immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, and seek additional support if required