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Lesson 4 - Lay-up Technique and Application

Foundation Skills

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Year 7

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Basketball

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Big Question

How can mastering the lay-up technique transform your basketball scoring ability and team success?

Learning Objectives

To execute a lay-up shot using the correct two-step approach and backboard technique
To demonstrate the 45-degree approach angle and soft hands technique for consistent scoring
To apply lay-up skills effectively in game situations with improved spacing and decision-making

Key Outcomes

Students will perform lay-ups with correct footwork and backboard targeting
Students will understand when and how to use lay-ups strategically in games
Students will demonstrate improved court awareness and spacing during gameplay

Equipment & Resources Required

Basketball

1 per 2 students (15 total)

Distributed around court perimeter before lesson begins

Alternative: Size 6 balls for smaller hands, foam balls for confidence building

Coloured Bibs

2 sets of 15 (30 total)

Organised by colour in equipment basket

Alternative: Different coloured cones for team identification

Dish Cones

20 cones

Used to mark 45-degree approach angles and court boundaries

Alternative: Floor tape, chalk lines for marking positions

Basketball Hoops

3 hoops minimum

Check height is appropriate (3.05m standard, lower for accessibility)

Alternative: Adjustable height hoops for differentiation

Key Vocabulary

Lay-up

A close-range shot where the ball is released near the basket, often using the backboard

Backboard

The rectangular board behind the basket used to help guide shots into the hoop

45-degree approach

The optimal angle of approach to the basket that creates the best shooting angle

Soft hands

Gentle, controlled ball release with minimal force for accurate shooting

EXPLODE

Quick, powerful movement towards the basket with acceleration and intent

Travel

A basketball violation when a player moves illegally with the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and dribbling skills
Understanding of basketball court layout and basic rules
Simple shooting technique from stationary positions

Current Skills

Two-step lay-up approach technique
Backboard shooting accuracy
Game application of lay-up skills
Court spacing and positioning awareness

Next Steps

Lay-ups under defensive pressure
Advanced finishing techniques around the rim
Pick and roll situations incorporating lay-ups

Milestone Indicators

Consistent use of correct footwork pattern

Ability to score 6/10 lay-ups in practice

Successful lay-up execution during game pressure

Key Teaching Points

45-degree approach angle is crucial for optimal shooting geometry
Two-step footwork sequence must be consistent for reliable technique
Explosive movement to basket creates scoring opportunities
Soft hands and backboard use increases shooting percentage significantly
Game application requires maintaining technique under pressure
Teamwork creates better lay-up opportunities than individual play
Consistent practice builds muscle memory for game situations

Common Misconceptions

Thinking harder shots are more impressive - lay-ups are actually the smartest choice
Believing speed is more important than technique - quality execution beats rushed attempts
Assuming lay-ups are easy - they require precise timing and coordination
Thinking only tall players can score lay-ups - technique matters more than height
Believing individual brilliance beats teamwork - best lay-ups come from team play

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, movement-based learning emphasis, regular positive feedback, clear boundaries and expectations

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time, visual and verbal instruction combination

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet practice areas available, consistent routines and expectations, visual cue cards for techniques

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured basketballs, provide clear verbal cues for positioning, buddy system for spatial awareness, tactile markers for approach angles

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, clear hand signals for game communication, written instruction cards for complex sequences

physical disability

Seated shooting versions, modified distances and heights, adapted equipment, alternative roles as coaches or score keepers

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, communication skills during team games, following and giving instructions clearly

Maths

Calculating shooting percentages, understanding angles and geometry of 45-degree approach, measuring distances for consistency

Science

Physics of projectile motion and optimal shooting angles, biomechanics of explosive movement, energy transfer in shooting

Geography

Spatial awareness and court positioning, understanding directional movement and optimal positioning

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation during games, resilience when learning new skills, leadership through peer teaching

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position at corner of court area for maximum visibility of all students, move between groups during practice phases

Observation Focus

Watch for correct footwork sequence, appropriate approach angles, soft shooting technique, and safe spacing

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for safety concerns, provide technique corrections during natural breaks, address rule violations promptly

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate complete technique slowly first, then at game speed, emphasise key points through exaggerated movements

Verbal Cues

•'EXPLODE to the basket!'
•'Soft hands on the shot!'
•'Use that backboard!'
•'Two big steps only!'
•'Find your 45-degree angle!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Half basketball court minimum per group of 6, full court ideal for multiple 3v3 games, clear run-off areas behind baskets

Surface Check

Dry, non-slip court surface, no obstacles in approach areas, adequate lighting for all activities

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check basketballs are properly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure hoops are securely mounted and at appropriate height
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Check bibs are clean and appropriate sizes

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during explosive drives to basket
•Falls during landing from lay-up attempts
•Ball strikes from rebounds or passes
•Fatigue-related injuries during intensive practice

Risk Mitigation

•Clear approach lanes marked with adequate spacing
•Progressive skill building before full-speed attempts
•Proper warm-up emphasising explosive movements
•Regular water breaks during intensive activities
•Clear game rules about contact and aggressive play

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all game areas simultaneously
•Monitor high-activity areas around baskets closely
•Watch for fatigue signs during intensive practice
•Maintain clear sight lines during game rotations

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately for any injury, assess severity, apply appropriate first aid, summon additional support if needed