Lesson 1 - Bump and Dig Receiving Techniques
Tactics & Game Strategy
•Year 6
•Volleyball
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How can we use our body position and arm technique to control the volleyball and work effectively as a team?
Learning Objectives
- To develop the bump and dig receiving techniques in volleyball
- To understand when and how to use bump versus dig techniques
- To demonstrate effective communication and teamwork in volleyball situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will consistently use correct body position for bump and dig techniques
- Students will demonstrate appropriate technique selection based on ball height and position
- Students will communicate effectively with teammates during game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed around activity area perimeter
Alternative: Soft volleyballs, foam balls for beginners
Used for target practice and court boundaries
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, or chalk marks
Create 4m x 7m courts with 1m gap under net
Alternative: Chalk lines, tape markers
Key Vocabulary
A volleyball technique used to receive balls at waist height or above using a platform formed by both arms
A volleyball technique used to receive balls below waist height with a low body position
The surface created by joining both arms together for receiving the volleyball
The movement and positioning of feet to get into the best position to receive the ball
Calling out clearly to let teammates know you are taking the ball
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling and catching skills
- Understanding of sending and receiving in other sports
- Experience working cooperatively in partner activities
Current Skills
- Bump technique for balls at waist height and above
- Dig technique for balls below waist height
- Communication and calling for the ball
Next Steps
- Combining bump and dig in game situations
- Advanced positioning and court movement
- Set up plays and tactical awareness
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Platform formation is crucial for both bump and dig - arms together, slight bend at elbows
- Use legs for power, not arms - this provides control and prevents arm strain
- Get behind the ball before making contact - footwork is essential
- Low body position for dig technique - 'get low for low balls'
- Communication prevents collisions and organises team play
- Technique selection depends on ball height - bump for waist and above, dig for below
- Consistent practice builds muscle memory and confidence
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: Swinging arms provides more power. Reality: Leg drive with stable platform gives better control
- Misconception: Same technique works for all ball heights. Reality: Bump and dig require different body positions
- Misconception: Looking at the ball is enough. Reality: Must move feet to get body behind ball
- Misconception: Louder calls are better. Reality: Clear, timely communication is more important than volume
- Misconception: Perfect technique required before playing games. Reality: Games help develop technique through practice
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries and expectations, movement breaks, specific roles and responsibilities
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment initially, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, step-by-step technique breakdown
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedules of activities, quiet space available for breaks, consistent routines and expectations
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured volleyballs, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, pair with sighted buddy for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations and hand signals, written instruction cards, ensure student can see teacher clearly
physical disability
- Seated volleyball variations, modified court sizes, adapted equipment like larger or softer balls
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting successful hits in challenges, measuring court dimensions, calculating scores and statistics
Science
Forces and motion in ball trajectory, body mechanics in low positions, physics of ball bounce
Geography
Spatial awareness and court positioning, directions and movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and communication, managing emotions during competition, respecting others and fair play
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between activities to provide individual feedback, position for clear demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for correct platform formation, appropriate technique selection, and safe movement patterns
Intervention Points
Step in when technique is unsafe, communication breaks down, or students become frustrated
Demonstration Notes
Use slow-motion demonstrations for technique, involve students in showing correct/incorrect form, emphasise key teaching points consistently
Verbal Cues
- •'Platform and legs!'
- •'Get low for low balls!'
- •'Call your name!'
- •'Move your feet first!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m, clear of obstacles, suitable for multiple courts
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate for volleyball activities
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check volleyballs are properly inflated and undamaged
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify net height is appropriate and secure
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between players during movement
- •Falls when moving quickly or in low positions
- •Contact with volleyballs during game play
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear court boundaries established and communicated
- •Adequate spacing between pairs and groups
- •Progressive skill building before game application
- •Emphasis on controlled movement and communication
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all courts
- •Monitor high-activity game situations closely
- •Check technique to prevent injury from poor form
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess any injuries, apply appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safely managed