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Lesson 5 - Shooting for Points and Goals

Technical Mastery & Tactics

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Year 9

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Invasion Games

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Big Question

How do we make smart shooting decisions to maximise scoring opportunities in invasion games?

Learning Objectives

Understand the dual scoring system for shooting for points versus shooting for goals
Develop accuracy in shooting from various distances and angles
Make tactical decisions about when to shoot for points versus when to drive for goals

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate understanding of the scoring system through appropriate shot selection
Students will show improved shooting accuracy from multiple distances
Students will make informed decisions about risk versus reward in shooting situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Gaelic Footballs

15-20 (1 per 2 students)

Distributed around practice areas

Alternative: Size 3 footballs or rugby balls

Cones

40-50

Mark shooting zones and boundaries

Alternative: Markers or chalk lines

Coloured Bibs

15 (half class)

Distinguish attacking and defending teams

Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts

Large Goals

2-4

Position for maximum shooting practice

Alternative: Netball posts with crossbar tape

Markers

8-10

Create accuracy targets within goals

Alternative: Chalk circles or rope

Key Vocabulary

Point scoring

Kicking the ball over the crossbar between the goalposts for 1 point

Goal scoring

Getting the ball into the goal under the crossbar for 3 points

Risk assessment

Evaluating whether to attempt a difficult goal or take a safer point

Shooting accuracy

The precision of shots hitting the intended target area

Decision making

Choosing the most appropriate shot based on position and situation

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic kicking technique with inside and outside of foot
Hand passing skills and catching
Understanding of basic invasion game principles

Current Skills

Shooting for points versus goals decision-making
Shooting accuracy from various distances
Combining movement patterns with shooting

Next Steps

Advanced shooting under defensive pressure
Set piece shooting situations
Team shooting strategies and patterns

Milestone Indicators

Consistent 70%+ accuracy from short range point shots

Appropriate shot selection in 8/10 opportunities

Smooth integration of movement and shooting

Key Teaching Points

Point shots require upward trajectory and accurate placement between posts
Goal shots need power and precision aimed at corners away from goalkeeper
Decision-making should consider distance, angle, defensive pressure and game situation
Maintain shooting technique consistency even under pressure and fatigue
Support teammates' shooting decisions regardless of outcome
Practice makes permanent - quality repetition builds muscle memory
Risk assessment is key - sometimes a certain point is better than a risky goal attempt

Common Misconceptions

Goals are always better than points - explain that 1 point scored is worth more than a goal missed
Shooting harder always means more accuracy - demonstrate that controlled technique beats raw power
Only shoot when close to goal - show that long-range points are valuable scoring opportunities
Shooting is only about leg strength - emphasise that accuracy comes from technique and practice
Missing shots means you shouldn't attempt them - encourage positive risk-taking and learning from attempts

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, immediate feedback on performance, movement opportunities between skills, clear boundaries and expectations

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, additional practice time, larger equipment for easier handling, break down complex skills into smaller steps

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson sections, designated quiet area if needed, consistent routines for transitions, warning before loud activities

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal descriptions of goal positions, audio cues for shooting direction, buddy system for positioning

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for shooting types, written instruction cards, ensure students can see teacher's face when speaking

physical disability

Modified shooting distances, seated or supported shooting positions, larger/softer balls, adapted goal sizes

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Understanding forces and motion in ball flight, biomechanics of shooting technique, physics of projectile motion

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, using directional language, mapping playing areas and positions

Mathematics

Calculating scoring rates and percentages, measuring distances for shooting zones, angles and trajectories

PSHE

Decision-making under pressure, building confidence through risk-taking, teamwork and supporting others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between practice areas during skill development, central position during games for optimal observation

Observation Focus

Watch for shooting technique, decision-making quality, safety awareness, and inclusion of all students

Intervention Points

Step in for safety concerns, technique correction when students are struggling, or to manage competitive intensity

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated demonstrations for technique, involve students in demonstrating good decision-making examples

Verbal Cues

•'Eyes on target before you shoot!'
•'Think about your options - points or goal?'
•'Great decision-making there!'
•'Support your teammate's choice!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 60m for full games, smaller areas acceptable for skill development

Surface Check

Firm, even surface free from holes or debris, suitable for running and shooting movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all footballs are properly inflated
•Ensure goal posts are stable and secure
•Verify cones are in good condition with no sharp edges
•Check bibs are clean and in good repair

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during competitive games
•Ball strikes to face or body
•Overexertion during shooting practice
•Slips and falls on playing surface

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and rules established before games
•Progressive warm-up to prepare muscles for shooting movements
•Adequate spacing during shooting practice
•Regular breaks to prevent overexertion
•Clear safety briefing about ball awareness

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during games
•Monitor high-intensity shooting areas
•Watch for signs of fatigue affecting technique and safety
•Ensure equal participation and prevent exclusion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are supervised and safe