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Lesson 5 - Smash Shot Technique & Use

Fundamentals & Tactics

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Year 9

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Badminton

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Big Question

How can mastering the smash shot transform your attacking play and court dominance in badminton?

Learning Objectives

To accurately replicate a smash shot with correct technique and timing
To understand the strategic importance of movement and preparation for effective smash execution
To demonstrate knowledge of badminton court markings and apply tactical shot selection based on opponent positioning

Key Outcomes

Students will execute smash shots with improved power and accuracy
Students will demonstrate understanding of when and why to use attacking shots
Students will show enhanced court awareness and tactical decision-making in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Badminton Rackets

4-6 courts depending on facility

Check string tension and grip size before lesson begins

Alternative: Various sizes available for different hand sizes and abilities

Balls

50-60 mixed types

Test flight quality - replace damaged shuttles

Alternative: Plastic shuttles for outdoor/windy conditions, feather for advanced play

Score Sheets

10 copies

Distribute to observer students during skill development

Alternative: Laminated sheets for reuse

iPads

1.5 devices

Charge devices and test camera angle positions

Alternative: Any tablet or smartphone with slow-motion capability

Markers Cones

20 small cones

Use to highlight specific court areas and target zones

Alternative: Chalk or tape for marking target areas

Key Vocabulary

Smash shot

A powerful overhead attacking stroke hit downwards with maximum force to win the point

Attacking shot

An aggressive stroke designed to put pressure on opponents and win points quickly

V grip

The correct way to hold a badminton racquet with thumb and forefinger forming a V shape

Service line

The line that marks the minimum distance for a legal serve in badminton

Centre line

The line that divides the court into left and right service areas

Singles sideline

The outer boundary line for singles play, narrower than doubles court

Doubles sideline

The wider outer boundary line used for doubles play

Preparation

Getting into the correct position and stance before playing a shot

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic racquet grip and stance
Overhead clear and drop shot techniques
Understanding of basic badminton rules and scoring
Court positioning and movement patterns

Current Skills

Smash shot technique and execution
Strategic thinking for attacking play
Advanced court marking knowledge
Tactical shot selection based on game situation

Next Steps

Advanced smash variations and angles
Combination attacking sequences
Doubles tactical play and positioning
Match play strategy and game management

Milestone Indicators

Consistent contact point above and in front of head

Visible power generation through full body rotation

Accurate placement of smash shots to target areas

Appropriate shot selection during competitive play

Key Teaching Points

Smash contact point must be in front of head, never behind or directly above
Power comes from full body rotation and wrist snap, not just arm strength
Preparation and positioning are more important than hitting power
Tactical timing - create opportunities rather than forcing unrealistic shots
Follow through towards target area for accuracy and control
Use smash as part of tactical sequence, not isolated shots
Safety first - proper technique prevents injury and improves effectiveness

Common Misconceptions

More power always means better shots - technique and placement are more important
Smash from any position - must wait for correct shuttle height and positioning
Use smash for every attacking opportunity - sometimes drop shots or drives are better
Hit as hard as possible - controlled power with accuracy is more effective
Contact shuttle directly overhead - contact point should be in front of body
Rush to hit quickly - patience and preparation lead to better execution

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries and expectations, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Simplified technique breakdown, additional practice time, colour-coded equipment, reduced court size

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual activity schedule, quiet retreat area available, consistent verbal cues

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured shuttlecocks, verbal descriptions of court positioning, tactile court marking exploration

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, buddy system for communication

physical disability

Seated or modified position play, lightweight racquets, larger court areas, adapted scoring systems

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, giving constructive feedback, tactical communication

Science

Forces and motion in shuttlecock flight, biomechanics of power generation, physics of angles and trajectories

Mathematics

Angles of attack and shot placement, scoring systems and statistics, court geometry and spatial reasoning

PSHE

Resilience and perseverance in skill development, fair play and sportsmanship, self-assessment and reflection

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position between courts for maximum visibility, move actively to provide individual feedback

Observation Focus

Monitor smash technique for safety and effectiveness, watch for tactical understanding in game application

Intervention Points

Step in if technique poses injury risk, when students struggle with tactical concepts, or if competitive games become unsafe

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion demonstrations for technique, normal speed for tactical examples, involve students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Shuttle in front, not above!'
•'Snap that wrist for power!'
•'Aim for the corners!'
•'Wait for the right moment!'
•'Prepare early, strike late!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Multiple badminton courts or equivalent space 40m x 20m minimum with 3m overhead clearance

Surface Check

Non-slip, even surface free from obstacles and water, appropriate court markings visible

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check racquet strings for breaks and sharp edges
•Ensure shuttlecocks are undamaged and flying correctly
•Verify net height and stability
•Test iPad/recording equipment battery and positioning

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collision between students during movement
•Eye injury from shuttlecock impact
•Overhead strain from repetitive smashing
•Slips and falls on court surface

Risk Mitigation

•Clear court boundaries and adequate spacing between activities
•Proper warm-up focusing on shoulder and arm preparation
•Controlled feeding during skill practice
•Regular breaks to prevent overexertion
•Appropriate technique instruction to prevent injury

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all courts simultaneously
•Monitor technique to prevent poor form causing injury
•Watch for signs of fatigue during intense activity
•Ensure safe equipment handling throughout

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury severity, apply appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required