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Lesson 3 - Jab Tackling and Shielding

Mastering Skills & Team Play

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Year 8

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Hockey

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Big Question

How can you protect possession whilst recognising the perfect moment to win the ball back?

Learning Objectives

Develop the ability to shield the ball effectively from a defender using body positioning and stick control
Perform a jab tackle safely with correct timing and technique
Apply defensive and attacking skills effectively in competitive game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to execute a jab tackle with correct foot and stick positioning
Students will demonstrate effective shielding techniques to protect possession under pressure
Students will apply tactical awareness in defensive zones and attacking transitions

Equipment & Resources Required

Hockey sticks

1 per student (30)

Distributed around perimeter before students enter, checked for damage

Alternative: Ensure mix of left and right-handed sticks available

Hockey balls

1 per student (30)

Stored in basket, distributed during warm-up

Alternative: Foam balls for students with reduced confidence or SEND needs

Cones

40-50

Used for grid boundaries, zone markers, and passing stations

Alternative: Marker spots or floor tape for indoor surfaces

Bibs

15-20 in multiple colours

One colour for sharks (5), different colours for battleships teams (6 teams)

Alternative: Coloured bands if bibs unavailable

Dish Cones

6 (2 per pitch)

Positioned at ends of battleships grids

Alternative: Cone goals (2 cones 1.5m apart)

Stopwatch

For timing battleships game rounds

Alternative: Phone timer or visible clock

Key Vocabulary

Jab tackle

A defensive technique where the tackler steps forward with left foot and extends the stick quickly to dislodge the ball when it's clear of the opponent's stick

Shielding

Protecting the ball from an opponent by keeping your body between the defender and the ball whilst maintaining control

Intercepting

Reading the play to position yourself to block or collect a pass intended for an opponent

Zone defence

A defensive strategy where each defender is responsible for a specific area rather than marking individual players

Timing

The ability to judge the perfect moment to execute a skill, particularly when the ball is vulnerable during opponent's movement

Tactics

The strategies and decisions made to gain advantage in competitive situations

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic dribbling with stick control from Year 7
Push passing and receiving techniques from previous lessons
Understanding of personal space and spatial awareness
Basic defensive positioning concepts

Current Skills

Jab tackle technique with correct body mechanics
Shielding using body positioning and stick placement
Timing defensive interventions effectively
Applying skills under pressure in zone-based games

Next Steps

Advanced tackling techniques including block tackles
Transition play from defence to attack
Complex game situations with full rules
Team defensive systems and pressing strategies

Milestone Indicators

Student can identify the moment when ball is clear of opponent's stick

Consistent left foot forward position during jab tackle attempts

Maintains possession for 5+ seconds under defensive pressure

Successfully intercepts passes in zone defence situations

Key Teaching Points

Jab tackle technique: left foot forward in lunge position, left hand leads stick extension, quick jabbing motion not sweeping, stick remains below knee height for safety, timing when ball is clear of opponent's stick (20-30cm ahead)
Shielding fundamentals: body positioned between ball and defender, low centre of gravity with bent knees, ball controlled on far side from defender using stick, shoulder and hip create physical barrier, maintain awareness of defender's position
Safety non-negotiables: sticks never raised above knee height during play, controlled movements especially in congested areas, proper equipment carrying technique (stick horizontal, head down and forward, walking pace), immediate freeze response when stop signal given
Zone defence positioning: defenders stay within designated zones maintaining disciplined shape, anticipate passes and movement into zone, position body to intercept passing lanes (channelling), time forward movement based on trigger (e.g., attackers clearing previous defender)
Tactical communication: verbal calls for ball ('here!', 'pass!', name calling), non-verbal signals (eye contact before passing, hand signals for direction), constant team dialogue during games, constructive encouragement not criticism of mistakes
Progressive skill application: skills introduced in isolation (jab tackle demonstration), practiced with light pressure (Sharks game), applied in structured games (Run the Gauntlet zones), finally used in competitive situations (Battleships) - scaffolding supports learning
Differentiation through modification: support through easier tasks/larger equipment/more time, core standard activity for most, extension through additional challenges/leadership roles/complex variations - ensures all students appropriately challenged and successful

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Jab tackle can be executed at any time. Reality: Timing is critical - only effective when ball is clear of opponent's stick (20-30cm ahead). Tackling when opponent has close control results in foul and loss of defensive position. Correction: Practice recognition through clapping exercise when ball is vulnerable, demonstrate unsuccessful tackle when ball too close vs successful when ball clear.
Misconception: Shielding means stopping and standing still with your back to defender. Reality: Effective shielding involves continuous movement, keeping body between ball and defender while maintaining control and awareness - static shielding allows defender to reach around easily. Correction: Demonstrate mobile shielding with directional changes, practice shielding while moving in different directions.
Misconception: Stronger tackle means swinging stick harder at ball. Reality: Effective jab tackle is quick, controlled jabbing motion - swinging is dangerous (risk of hitting opponent) and slow (telegraphs intention giving opponent time to react). Correction: Emphasise 'jab not swing' repeatedly, use boxing analogy for quick in-and-out motion, immediate stop if any swinging observed.
Misconception: Zone defenders should chase attackers who pass through their zone. Reality: Disciplined zone defence requires staying within boundaries even when beaten - chasing out of zone leaves gaps and breaks team defensive structure. Correction: Clearly mark zones, reinforce boundaries verbally during game, praise defenders who maintain position even when beaten.
Misconception: In Battleships, running straight to ball is fastest route. Reality: Running behind own goal first creates fair contest and prevents dangerous head-on collisions in centre. Correction: Demonstrate both routes showing collision risk, strictly enforce correct route, explain fairness principle (both travel equal distance).
Misconception: Good hockey player always dribbles solo to goal. Reality: Passing is often more effective than dribbling especially under pressure - ball travels faster than any player can run. Correction: Use Run the Gauntlet to demonstrate passing through defenders vs dribbling, celebrate successful passing combinations equally to solo goals.
Misconception: More power in push pass means better pass. Reality: Accuracy and appropriate weight (pace) are more important than power - overpowered passes cannot be controlled by receiver. Correction: Practice passing to moving targets requiring precise weight, emphasise 'pass to feet' concept, demonstrate how hard passes bounce off receiver's stick.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts (no activity longer than 4-5 minutes before variation) maintain engagement. Clear, visible boundaries using cones help focus attention. High-activity lesson structure channels energy positively. Immediate, frequent feedback provides regular input. Physical activity breaks between cognitive tasks (e.g., tactical discussions followed immediately by active game). Clear stop/start signals prevent confusion. Allow fidget tools during seated discussion time if helpful. Responsibilities during games (equipment monitor, caller, scorekeeper) provide focus. Praise specific behaviours regularly. Movement opportunities throughout - no extended sedentary periods.

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter balls (foam hockey balls) improve control success. Reduce complexity by focusing on one skill component at a time - dribbling first, then add shielding separately. Extra practice time before games to build confidence. Simplify movement patterns - demonstrate in slow motion, break into smaller steps. Larger goals and targets for shooting. Allow two-handed stick grip if traditional grip too challenging. Partner support during complex activities. Reduce competitive pressure - focus on personal improvement not comparison to others. Specific, positive feedback on successful movements builds confidence. Visual cue cards showing stick grip, body position for reference.

autism spectrum

Provide visual schedule of lesson sections displayed clearly - students can see what's coming next reducing anxiety. Clear, predictable routines for equipment collection and transitions. Minimise sudden loud noises - warn before whistle use. Quiet zone available if sensory overload occurs (designated area at side with chair). Consistent language and signals throughout. Break complex instructions into smaller steps. Provide advance notice of changes or progressions. Allow processing time after questions. Pair with understanding peer buddy. Celebrate small successes frequently.

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls (yellow or orange) with high contrast to playing surface. Verbal descriptions of all demonstrations with step-by-step commentary. Buddy system with sighted peer for spatial navigation. Audible ball (bell inside) for severely impaired students. Reduce playing area size for better spatial awareness. Increase verbal communication from teacher during games. Tactile markers (textured cones) for zone boundaries.

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations emphasised - teacher and competent student modelling all skills. Written instructions on whiteboard or cards for reference. Hand signals established for common cues: thumbs up (good), hand to ear (listen/communication needed), stop signal (flat hand). Ensure face visible when speaking for lip reading. Buddy system for clarifying instructions. Reduce background noise where possible. Visual start signals (coloured flag/cone raised) instead of whistle where appropriate.

physical disability

Wheelchair hockey adaptations: seated dribbling and passing, shorter sticks if needed, larger goals for shooting success. Modify jab tackle to 'stick tap' - tapping opponent's stick rather than jabbing. Reduce court sizes for limited mobility. Allow use of lighter balls (foam) for reduced strength. Permit additional recovery time between activities. Buddy support for equipment collection. Adapted stretches during cool-down appropriate to individual's range of movement. Celebrate effort and participation equally to competitive success.

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development: learning, using and explaining terms like jab tackle, shielding, intercepting, zone defence. Communication skills during tactical discussions: articulating ideas clearly, listening to others, building on peers' contributions. Evaluation using descriptive language when assessing peer performance. Following complex verbal instructions requires listening comprehension. Expressing reflections on learning during plenary develops speaking skills.

Science

Understanding forces applied during push pass (force, direction, friction affecting ball movement). Body systems during exercise: cardiovascular response to high-intensity activities, increased heart rate and breathing rate, oxygen delivery to muscles. Muscle contraction (quadriceps, hamstrings) during movement. Physics of ball motion: speed, trajectory, impact. Recovery processes during cool-down: lactic acid dispersal, muscle repair, temperature regulation.

Mathematics

Counting points during Battleships develops number skills. Calculating team scores across multiple rounds applies addition. Understanding zone divisions (3 equal zones from 18m court = 6m per zone) reinforces division concepts. Estimating distances when passing to targets. Spatial geometry concepts through court layouts and angles of passing.

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation during Run the Gauntlet and Battleships develops collaborative skills. Resilience when skills are challenging or when losing competitive games builds mental strength. Managing emotions in competitive situations practices emotional regulation. Encouraging others demonstrates empathy and social awareness. Fair play and sportsmanship embody core values. Self-assessment develops self-awareness and honest self-evaluation. Respecting others' abilities and contributions builds inclusive mindset.

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Vary position throughout lesson for optimal supervision: corner position during grid-based activities for 180-degree visibility; central position during skill stations to rotate attention efficiently; circulating position during game applications to provide close observation and immediate feedback. Never turn back on active play. Position to see all students always.

Observation Focus

Primary focus on safety throughout: stick heights, spatial awareness, controlled movements. Secondary focus on technique: jab tackle foot positioning, shielding body alignment, passing accuracy. Tertiary focus on tactical elements: communication, decision-making, teamwork. Balance observation across all students not just most/least able. Use scanning technique - sweeping gaze across whole group every 10-15 seconds.

Intervention Points

Immediate intervention required for: unsafe stick work (above knee height or swinging), physical contact beyond incidental, any student in distress or injured, dangerous play, bullying or unkind language. Brief pause intervention for: technique errors affecting whole group, clarifying rules causing confusion, providing encouragement to disengaged students. Post-activity intervention for: individual technique refinement, tactical discussions, specific praise and constructive feedback.

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: All new skills before student practice - jab tackle technique shown in slow motion then match speed, repeated 3 times minimum. Use competent student as partner to show realistic scenarios. Exaggerate key points (left foot lunge, jabbing motion) for visibility. Show both correct technique and common mistakes for contrast. Position demonstration so all students can see without moving from safe positions. Verbal commentary during demonstration: 'Watch my left foot stepping forward like a lunge... see the quick jab with my stick... and recover back to ready position.' Invite questions after demonstration before practice begins.

Verbal Cues

•'Soft touches!' - when dribbling control is too heavy
•'Find space!' - when students bunching together
•'Low sticks!' - reminder for stick height safety
•'Left foot forward!' - cueing jab tackle footwork
•'Body between!' - prompting shielding positioning
•'Eyes up!' - encouraging awareness of surroundings
•'Quick feet!' - prompting agility and movement
•'Talk to teammates!' - encouraging communication
•'Time it!' - developing timing awareness for tackles
•'Freeze!' - immediate stop signal for safety or teaching point

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for full lesson activities. Warm-up grid 20m x 20m. Skill development requires 6 circles with 8-10m spacing. Run the Gauntlet needs 4 courts of 18m x 8m. Battleships requires 3 grids of 15m x 10m. Total space: full sports hall or outdoor area equivalent to half a hockey pitch minimum.

Surface Check

Dry, even surface essential - no wet patches (slip risk), no uneven areas (trip/ankle risk), no debris or stones (ball deflection and trip hazards). Indoor: check for dust/moisture making surface slippery. Outdoor: grass must be even height, no holes or divots. Mark any unavoidable hazards with cones and exclude from playing area.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Hockey sticks: inspect before lesson for cracks, splinters or damage to head/handle - remove damaged sticks immediately
•Hockey balls: check inflation and condition - replace any cracked or damaged balls, ensure appropriate hardness (not overly hard which increases impact injury risk)
•Cones: check for sharp edges or cracks - damaged cones can cause cuts or trips, use only stable cones not easily knocked over
•Goals: ensure cone goals are stable and visible, check purchased goals have no sharp edges or unstable frames
•Bibs: appropriate size to prevent tripping, clean and in good condition

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick contact injuries: sticks striking other students during swinging or tackling movements
•Ball impact injuries: hockey balls striking students particularly face/head area
•Collisions: students running into each other during dynamic games like Battleships
•Trips and falls: from equipment on ground, collisions, or rapid direction changes
•Muscle strains: from inadequate warm-up or excessive stretching
•Overexertion: from high-intensity activities without adequate breaks

Risk Mitigation

•Strict stick height rule enforced throughout: no sticks above knee height during tackles/game play - immediate stop and correction if violated
•Clear spatial boundaries established with cones preventing encroachment into other groups' areas - minimum 3m buffer zones
•Progressive skill building: jab tackle taught and practiced in controlled environment before game application
•Running routes in Battleships clearly defined (behind goal) preventing head-on collisions
•Zone restrictions in Run the Gauntlet prevent overcrowding and create controlled defensive situations
•Adequate breaks between high-intensity games preventing fatigue-related injuries
•Proper warm-up including dynamic movements prepares muscles for activity
•Controlled cool-down with appropriate stretching prevents muscle soreness and supports recovery
•Regular equipment checks during lesson - damaged equipment removed immediately
•Clear stop signals established and practiced - all students freeze on whistle/command

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position at corner of grids during Sharks for visibility of all 30 students and stick heights
•Circulate between 6 circles during passing activities focusing on different group every 15-20 seconds
•Central position during Run the Gauntlet to observe all 4 courts simultaneously, prioritising nearest 2 for detailed observation
•Active circulation during Battleships monitoring all 3 pitches with particular attention to goal areas where intensity highest
•During transitions: position to monitor equipment handling and student movement between activities
•Continuous scanning for fatigue, frustration, or unsafe behaviour requiring intervention
•Ensure clear sightlines maintained - never position with back to active play

Emergency Procedures

If injury occurs: immediate STOP signal (whistle and raised hand). All students freeze and place sticks and balls down. Assess injured student - if minor (slight knock, trip with no injury), brief pause then resume; if moderate (potential sprain, significant ball impact), send reliable student for first aider while you stay with injured student and keep others calm and seated; if serious (head injury, suspected fracture, unconscious), send TWO students for immediate help, do not move injured student, keep area clear, provide reassurance. First aid kit location known before lesson. Emergency contact protocols followed per school policy. Accident report completed same day for all injuries requiring first aid attention.