Stick Mastery & Game Basics
•Year 7
•Lacrosse
•Distribute before students enter space, arranged in straight line for safe collection
Alternative: If insufficient sticks, pair sharing with rotation every 2 minutes
Keep spare balls in bucket at side of area for quick replacement of lost balls
Alternative: Tennis balls for students with coordination difficulties or safety concerns
Use different colours for different activity zones to aid visual organisation
Alternative: Markers, spots or chalk lines for boundaries
Pre-sorted into sets for quick team distribution
Alternative: Coloured bands or verbal team identification
Clear 3m safety zone in front of wall, mark with cones
Alternative: Standalone rebound nets or partner throwing
Establish whistle signal system: 1 blast = stop, 2 blasts = rotate, 3 blasts = gather
Alternative: Voice commands with clear visual signals
Visible to teacher for accurate timing of activities
Alternative: Large visible countdown timer
Propelling the lacrosse ball from the stick's net towards a target using controlled arm movement
Receiving the lacrosse ball into the stick's net with control
Absorbing the impact of the ball by moving the stick backwards slightly as the ball enters the net
A throwing technique where the stick moves from low to high in an upward arc
The hand that provides power and control, positioned higher on the stick shaft near the head
Rhythmic rocking motion of the stick to keep the ball secure in the net whilst moving
The intended destination for the ball, usually partner's stick or specific area
The ability to throw the ball precisely to the intended target
Showing enthusiasm, energy and love for the activity
Confidence in one's own abilities and willingness to attempt challenging tasks
Treating others, equipment and the game with consideration and courtesy
Being truthful about performance, scores and rule-breaking
Perseverance and continued effort even when facing difficulty
Working cooperatively with others towards a shared goal
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Using technical vocabulary accurately - cushion, underarm, dominant, accuracy (spoken language). Providing verbal feedback to peers using descriptive language (spoken language). Articulating tactical ideas and explanations during reflection (spoken language). Following verbal instructions and multi-step sequences (listening). Evaluating peer performance using correct terminology (spoken language).
Counting successful catches during timed challenges (number and place value). Measuring distances for throwing activities - 10m, 15m (measurement). Calculating scores and tracking points in competitive games (addition, subtraction). Understanding angles in throwing trajectories and ball flight paths (geometry). Timing activities using seconds and minutes (time). Creating and reading tables of results from group challenges (statistics).
Understanding forces acting on the ball - gravity, friction, air resistance affecting flight (forces and motion). Recognising how muscular system works during throwing motion - arm muscles contracting and relaxing (human biology). Observing how cardiovascular system responds to exercise - increased heart rate, breathing rate during warm-up and games (working scientifically). Understanding trajectory and parabolic motion of thrown ball (physics). Investigating how follow-through affects distance and accuracy - energy transfer (forces).
Understanding sequences and step-by-step processes in skill development - algorithmic thinking (computational thinking). Recognising patterns in successful throwing technique (computational thinking). Debugging technique when catches fail - identifying and correcting errors (computational thinking). Logical reasoning when making tactical passing decisions (computational thinking).
Using directional language throughout activities - left, right, forwards, backwards (locational knowledge). Understanding spatial awareness and mapping movement patterns across teaching area (place knowledge). Creating mental maps of court layout and positioning - where Ds are, boundaries, space (geographical skills).
Developing teamwork through cooperative activities and supporting others (relationships). Building resilience when facing difficult challenges like non-dominant side throwing (health and wellbeing). Managing emotions during competitive games and when making mistakes (health and wellbeing). Demonstrating respect for others' abilities and efforts (relationships). Developing self-belief through achievement and overcoming challenges (health and wellbeing). Understanding honesty through self-assessment and peer voting (relationships).
Vary position throughout lesson: central and elevated for demonstrations and instructions ensuring all students can see and hear; perimeter circulation during practice activities to provide individual feedback; corner or sideline position during games for full court visibility while being accessible for questions.
Watch for: correct hand positioning (dominant hand high for catching, lower for throwing), cushioning movement visible on catches, accurate throws to target, support positioning in tactical activities, safe stick handling throughout, sporting values demonstration (encouraging words, helping others, perseverance, honesty), signs of fatigue or distress, inclusive behaviour ensuring all students are engaged.
Step in immediately if: unsafe stick use or throwing, students showing frustration or distress, technique significantly incorrect preventing success, rules being broken repeatedly, values being violated (disrespect, dishonesty, exclusion), equipment malfunctioning, any injury occurs, students are disengaged or off-task, group dynamics becoming negative.
Use demonstrations strategically throughout: teacher demonstrates new skills with exaggerated movements for clarity, perform technique slowly first then at speed, show common mistakes then correct technique for contrast, select confident students to demonstrate good practice (builds self-belief and provides peer modelling), pause activities mid-flow to highlight excellent technique from students ('freeze and watch...'), use demonstrations with verbal commentary explaining what to observe, ensure all students can see demonstrations by arranging semi-circle or clearing space, demonstrate safety procedures and equipment handling at start.
Minimum 30m x 40m clear outdoor space (playground or field) or full sports hall. Netball court required for final game. Adequate perimeter space (3m) clear of walls, fences and obstacles.
Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or trip hazards. Check for wet or icy patches before lesson. Indoor surface should be non-slip. Outdoor surface should be grass or tarmac in good condition.
Immediate STOP signal if injury occurs. Assess injured student while rest of class moves to safe space away from incident. Apply appropriate first aid following school policy. Send reliable student for additional support if required. Complete accident report form. Contact parents if injury requires medical attention. Secure all equipment before leaving area.
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