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Lesson 2 - Dodging and Evasion Techniques

Dodgeball Fundamentals

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Year 7

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Dodgeball

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1h 13min

Big Question

How can we use our body awareness and quick reactions to successfully evade moving objects while working effectively as a team?

Learning Objectives

P&S3 Work well with others in a range of contexts
Develop effective dodging techniques and body awareness
Improve reaction time and spatial awareness under pressure

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved dodging techniques using quick feet movements
Students will work cooperatively in team situations showing good sportsmanship
Students will show enhanced reaction times and spatial awareness when avoiding objects

Equipment & Resources Required

Dodgeball

6-8 (multiple sizes)

Distribute evenly around playing areas, check for proper inflation

Alternative: Soft foam balls, bean bags for modified activities

Dish Cones

Use to mark circles, squares, and court boundaries clearly

Alternative: Chalk lines, rope circles, floor tape

Coloured Cones

16 (4 sets of 4 different colours)

Ensure colours are clearly distinguishable for all students

Alternative: Coloured bean bags, coloured bibs, painted markers

SAQ Ladders

4-6 if available

Place on flat surface, ensure secure positioning

Alternative: Chalk ladder patterns, rope ladders, floor markings

Stopwatch

Accessible for timing activities and rotations

Alternative: Smartphone timer, wall clock with second hand

Key Vocabulary

Dodging

Moving quickly to avoid being hit by an object, using changes of direction and speed

Evade

To escape or avoid something by using quick, clever movements

Agility

The ability to move quickly and easily, changing direction rapidly while maintaining control

Quick Feet

Rapid, short steps that allow for fast direction changes and improved balance

Sidestepping

Moving sideways by stepping with one foot then bringing the other foot to meet it

Reaction Time

The speed at which you respond to a stimulus or threat

Spatial Awareness

Understanding where you are in relation to objects and other people in your environment

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic spatial awareness and movement skills
Understanding of simple game rules and fair play
Fundamental locomotor skills like running and jumping

Current Skills

Advanced dodging techniques including sidestepping and direction changes
Quick feet movement and agility under pressure
Teamwork and communication in competitive situations

Next Steps

Integration of dodging with offensive strategies
Advanced tactical awareness in invasion games
Leadership roles in organising and officiating activities

Milestone Indicators

Consistent use of quick feet when evading

Ability to anticipate ball trajectory

Effective communication during team activities

Demonstration of fair play and good sportsmanship

Key Teaching Points

Quick feet movements are essential for effective dodging - short, rapid steps maintain balance
Keep eyes forward and track ball movement - peripheral vision helps identify threats
Use variety in dodging techniques - sidesteps, ducks, jumps, and direction changes
Maintain low centre of gravity when dodging - bent knees provide better stability
Work cooperatively with teammates - communication and encouragement improve group performance
Safety first - below waist throws only, respect boundaries, and play with control
Practice makes improvement - focus on technique development over winning games

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Bigger steps are faster' - Correction: Quick, small steps provide better control and reaction ability
Misconception: 'Looking at feet helps movement' - Correction: Eyes forward allows better tracking of ball and spatial awareness
Misconception: 'Standing still makes you harder to hit' - Correction: Movement and unpredictability are key to successful dodging
Misconception: 'Throwing harder is more effective' - Correction: Accuracy and timing matter more than power
Misconception: 'Individual skill is most important' - Correction: Teamwork and cooperation lead to better outcomes for everyone

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use shorter activity bursts, provide clear boundaries, offer regular specific feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment, reduce complexity of movements initially, provide extra practice time and encouragement

autism spectrum

Provide clear routines and visual schedules, establish quiet zones, maintain predictable structure

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and cones, provide clear verbal cues, implement buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Rely on visual demonstrations, use hand signals and written instructions, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Adapt to seated dodging version, use larger/softer balls, modify court size and rules as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating angles of movement, measuring distances for court setup, timing and scoring activities

Science

Forces and motion in ball trajectory, reaction time and nervous system responses, energy systems during exercise

Geography

Spatial awareness and direction, mapping movement patterns, understanding of personal and general space

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing emotions under pressure, showing resilience and determination

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during activities, position at corners during games for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique development, safe participation, and positive interaction

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with technique, unsafe behaviour observed, or conflict arising

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate all techniques clearly, exaggerate movements for visibility, involve students in demonstrations where appropriate

Verbal Cues

•'Quick feet, light touches!'
•'Eyes up, watch the ball!'
•'Use your space, keep moving!'
•'Great dodging, well done!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for multiple activities, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for rapid directional changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check dodgeballs are properly inflated and not over-hard
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify SAQ ladders are securely positioned if used
•Inspect all equipment for wear and damage before use

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during high-intensity activities
•Slips and falls during rapid direction changes
•Ball strikes to head or face area
•Overexertion leading to fatigue-related injuries

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained throughout
•Adequate spacing between activity areas and groups
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Below-waist throwing rule strictly enforced
•Regular checks for student fatigue and adequate rest

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all activity areas
•Monitor high-activity zones during skill development
•Watch for compliance with safety rules during games
•Be alert for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, contact office if serious injury