Lesson 3 - Rolling and Diving Techniques
Technical Mastery & Leadership
•Year 9
•Sport Education
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can advanced movement techniques transform your defensive capabilities in dodgeball?
Learning Objectives
- Lead and demonstrate effective warm-up routines for team fitness development
- Master rolling and diving techniques to evade ball contact in game situations
- Apply tactical defensive positioning and movement patterns during competitive play
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully lead team warm-ups incorporating sport-specific movements
- Students will execute at least 3 different rolling/diving techniques safely and effectively
- Students will demonstrate improved defensive success rates in competitive dodgeball games
Equipment & Resources Required
Store in centre court line for game starts, check for damage before use
Alternative: Soft rubber balls, beach balls for beginners
Pre-sorted into team sets, readily accessible for quick distribution
Alternative: Coloured pinnards, team bands
Position safely away from walls, check for tears or damage
Alternative: Thick exercise mats, gymnastics mats
Place on flat surface, ensure non-slip base underneath
Alternative: Thin gymnastics mats, yoga mats
Use to mark court boundaries and special zones clearly
Alternative: Cones, spot markers, chalk lines
Ensure functioning and visible to all participants
Alternative: Phone timer, wall clock with second hand
One set per team captain, weatherproof if outdoors
Alternative: Laminated instruction sheets, digital display
Key Vocabulary
A straight-body rolling technique where arms are kept close to sides, rolling sideways across the ground
A gymnastic movement rolling forward over the head and shoulders in a tucked position
A low diving roll to one side, often used to avoid projectiles while maintaining forward momentum
The area behind the baseline where eliminated players must remain
Any movement technique used to avoid being hit by the ball
Strategic placement on court to maximise defensive advantages
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic dodgeball rules and safety protocols from previous lessons
- Fundamental throwing and catching techniques in dodgeball context
- Understanding of court positioning and basic dodging movements
Current Skills
- Advanced evasive techniques including rolling and diving movements
- Leadership skills through peer coaching and warm-up delivery
- Tactical awareness in defensive positioning and timing
Next Steps
- Integration of offensive and defensive strategies in competitive play
- Advanced tactical formations and team coordination strategies
- Sport Education tournament organisation and officiating skills
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Safety consciousness must be maintained throughout all rolling and diving activities
- Peer coaching develops both technical and leadership skills simultaneously
- Technique quality should always take precedence over speed or power
- Game pressure reveals true technique mastery and confidence levels
- Individual strengths should be identified and celebrated rather than standardised
- Mental resilience is as important as physical technique in dodgeball success
- Reflection and analysis consolidate learning and improve future performance
Common Misconceptions
- Rolling techniques are just for gymnastics - actually essential defensive skills in many sports
- Diving is dangerous - when performed correctly with proper progression it is safe and effective
- Only naturally athletic students can master advanced techniques - all students can improve with practice and support
- Individual skills are more important than teamwork - success requires both personal technique and collaborative strategy
- Competitive pressure should be avoided - appropriate challenge develops resilience and technique mastery
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Include frequent activity changes, provide clear boundaries and expectations, offer additional movement breaks, use positive reinforcement frequently
dyspraxia
- Break techniques into smaller steps, allow extra practice time, use larger equipment where appropriate, provide additional support for coordination
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, offer quiet break areas, use visual schedule for lesson progression, prepare for sensory considerations
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and mats, provide detailed verbal descriptions of court layout, implement buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations and hand signals, provide written instruction cards, ensure visual contact during communication
physical disability
- Modify rolling techniques for seated participants, use larger softer balls, adapt court size and reduce throwing distance
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, clear communication during instruction, analytical discussion and reflection skills
Science
Biomechanics of rolling movements, forces and momentum in dodging, physics of projectile motion in ball throwing
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, mapping movement patterns around court areas, direction and navigation skills
Mathematics
Angles of movement and trajectory, timing calculations for 5-second rescue rule, statistical analysis of success rates
PSHE
Leadership development through peer coaching, resilience building through challenging situations, teamwork and communication skills
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move continuously between activity areas to provide support and ensure safety, position for maximum visibility during game phases
Observation Focus
Watch for controlled technique execution, appropriate risk-taking, and positive peer interaction throughout all activities
Intervention Points
Step in immediately if unsafe technique attempted, provide additional support for struggling peer coaches, manage game intensity
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate all techniques slowly first, emphasise safety points, use students as positive examples when appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Control first, speed second!'
- •'Think before you move!'
- •'Use your new techniques!'
- •'Safety and support for everyone!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 40m x 20m for dual court setup, clear of obstacles with adequate safety margins around mat areas
Surface Check
Non-slip surface free from hazards, mats properly secured with non-slip backing, adequate cushioning for rolling activities
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •All mats inspected for tears or damage before use
- •Foam balls checked for proper condition and appropriate firmness
- •Non-slip mats positioned securely under crash mats
- •Stopwatch functioning correctly for timing activities
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision injuries during dynamic rolling and diving movements
- •Impact injuries from dodgeball throws at close range
- •Slips and falls on mats during rapid direction changes
- •Overconfidence leading to unsafe technique attempts
Risk Mitigation
- •Progressive skill building from slow to full speed
- •Clear boundaries and adequate spacing between activities
- •Constant supervision during mat-based activities
- •Emphasis on controlled technique over speed or power
- •Immediate correction of unsafe technique attempts
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear visibility of both courts during dual games
- •Monitor mat areas closely during rolling practice
- •Watch for signs of fatigue affecting technique quality
- •Ensure peer coaching remains supportive and safe
Emergency Procedures
Stop play immediately for any injury, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid, ensure clear evacuation route from activity areas