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Lesson 3 - Advanced Dribbling & Footwork

Foundational Skills & Development

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Year 8

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Basketball

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Big Question

How can mastering advanced footwork and dribbling techniques give you the competitive edge in basketball?

Learning Objectives

Develop self-motivation and physical confidence in competitive basketball situations
Master correct footwork when catching the ball using the 1/2 step technique
Execute effective pivots to protect the basketball and create passing angles

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate consistent 1/2 step catching technique in game situations
Students will use pivoting effectively to maintain possession and create opportunities
Students will show increased confidence and engagement in competitive scenarios

Equipment & Resources Required

Basketball

1 per student (30)

Distributed around court perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Size 5 footballs or netballs for basic skills practice

Dish Cones

20-30

Used to mark activity areas and boundaries

Alternative: Spot markers or chalk lines

Bibs

15 (for team identification)

Organised by colour for quick team allocation

Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts

Key Vocabulary

Triple threat position

Balanced stance from which a player can pass, dribble or shoot effectively

1/2 step

Footwork technique used when catching the ball to maintain balance and avoid travelling

Pivoting

Rotating around one stationary foot to change direction while maintaining possession

In and out dribble

Deceptive move using head and shoulder fake with ball positioning to change direction

Crossover dribble

Dribbling technique where ball crosses from one hand to the other to change direction

Jab step

Quick, aggressive step forward with non-pivot foot to test defender's reaction

Explosive first step

Powerful initial movement when starting to dribble past a defender

Overload situation

Attacking scenario where offensive players outnumber defensive players

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and catching techniques
Understanding of triple threat position
Simple dribbling with both hands

Current Skills

Advanced footwork techniques including 1/2 step
Pivoting for ball protection and angle creation
In and out dribble and crossover moves

Next Steps

Complex dribbling combinations in game situations
Advanced offensive moves and counter-attacks
Team tactical awareness and positioning

Milestone Indicators

Consistent use of correct footwork under pressure

Successful execution of dribbling moves in competitive situations

Increased confidence and self-motivation in challenges

Key Teaching Points

Triple threat position is the foundation of all basketball skills - emphasise balance and readiness
1/2 step catching technique prevents travelling violations and maintains control
Effective fakes require complete commitment to sell the deception to defenders
Pivot foot must remain stationary throughout all rotation movements
Game situations require balance between individual skills and team cooperation
Self-motivation and confidence grow through progressive skill mastery and positive experiences
Explosive first steps are about technique and timing, not just speed and power

Common Misconceptions

Thinking that flashy moves are always better than simple, effective techniques
Believing that speed is more important than control and decision making
Assuming that physical size determines basketball success rather than skill and intelligence
Thinking that individual skills don't need to work within team contexts
Believing that advanced moves should be attempted before mastering fundamentals
Assuming that competitive spirit means playing selfishly rather than smart

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with regular changes, clear and simple instructions, immediate feedback, movement opportunities throughout

dyspraxia

Larger basketballs initially, slower progression through skills, additional practice time, simplified movement patterns, extra encouragement

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed, consistent routines and expectations, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for guidance, tactile markers for boundaries

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for communication, ensure visual contact before giving instructions

physical disability

Seated basketball skills, modified equipment sizes, adapted distances and rules, focus on upper body movements and decision making

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances and angles, calculating success rates, understanding geometric principles in court positioning and movement patterns

Science

Forces and motion in dribbling, acceleration and deceleration in explosive movements, reaction time and nervous system responses

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding direction and movement, mapping game strategies and player positioning

PSHE

Building self-confidence and resilience, developing leadership skills, managing competitive emotions and working effectively in teams

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter for optimal viewing of all activities, position centrally during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique execution, appropriate competitive engagement, and safe participation

Intervention Points

Step in when technique is unsafe, competitive levels inappropriate, or students need additional support

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate at slower speed first, then full speed. Exaggerate key points for visibility. Use students to demonstrate good examples when appropriate.

Verbal Cues

•'Triple threat position - knees bent, ball chest high!'
•'Sell that fake - make me believe it!'
•'Explosive first step - low and powerful!'
•'Protect the ball with your body!'
•'Read the defender's reaction first!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Full basketball court or minimum 20m x 30m clear space for multiple game areas

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from hazards and obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Basketballs properly inflated and in good condition
•Cones with rounded edges and stable base
•No damaged or inappropriate equipment used

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during competitive games
•Slips and falls on court surface
•Overexertion during high-intensity activities
•Ball strikes from poor control

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and playing areas established
•Adequate spacing between different game areas
•Progressive skill building before competitive application
•Regular rotation and rest periods
•Appropriate defensive pressure levels

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all activities
•Monitor competitive game intensity levels
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Ensure appropriate defensive pressure in practice

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid if needed, contact emergency services if required