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Lesson 5 - Dragonfly Attack & Defence

Tactical Awareness in Invasion Games

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Year 9

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Teaching Games for Understanding

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Big Question

How can coordinated teamwork and tactical awareness create scoring opportunities while maintaining defensive strength?

Learning Objectives

Develop strategic thinking in attack and defence scenarios through dragonfly activities
Refine throwing accuracy and fielding techniques under pressure
Enhance team coordination and communication skills in competitive situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved tactical decision-making in attack and defence
Students will execute coordinated team movements with increased efficiency
Students will apply strategic thinking to score runs and prevent opponents from scoring

Equipment & Resources Required

Throwing Objects

2 (one per game)

Keep spares available in case of damage

Alternative: Foam footballs, bean bags, or tennis balls in socks

Cones

8 (4 per diamond)

Set up in diamond formation approximately 15 metres apart

Alternative: Marker discs, sports cones, or improvised markers

Markers

8 (4 per game)

Position clearly at each corner of diamond shape

Alternative: Hoops, mats, or marked areas on ground

Stopwatch

2 (one per game)

For timing activities and managing transitions

Alternative: Mobile phone timer or digital watch

Key Vocabulary

Dragonfly

A lightweight object used in invasion games for throwing and catching practice

Over-under passing

A passing technique alternating between passing over the head and through the legs

Dead zone

An area where players cannot be tagged or where specific rules apply

Strategic placement

Deliberately throwing to specific areas to maximise scoring opportunities

Defensive coordination

Working together as a fielding team to prevent scoring

Base running

Moving around bases in order while maintaining team formation

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching techniques from earlier TGFU lessons
Understanding of teamwork principles and cooperation
Experience with simple invasion games and scoring concepts

Current Skills

Strategic throwing for maximum distance and placement
Coordinated team movements and communication
Over-under passing technique under pressure
Tactical decision-making in attack and defence scenarios

Next Steps

Advanced invasion game tactics and strategies
Leadership roles in complex team scenarios
Analysis and adaptation of game strategies in real-time

Milestone Indicators

Students demonstrate strategic throwing placement rather than just power

Teams show coordinated movement without constant teacher instruction

Students begin to anticipate opponent strategies and adapt accordingly

Key Teaching Points

Strategic placement in throwing is more effective than maximum power
Coordinated team movements require clear communication and practice
Over-under passing technique requires alternating pattern and quick execution
Fielding teams must work together rather than as individuals
Tactical awareness develops through reflection and adaptation
Sportsmanship and fair play are essential even in competitive situations
Leadership emerges through supporting teammates and strategic thinking

Common Misconceptions

That throwing harder always leads to better results - emphasise strategic placement
That individual skill is more important than team coordination - highlight teamwork benefits
That winning is the primary objective - focus on learning and improvement
That the same strategy works against all opponents - encourage adaptation
That fielding is a passive role - emphasise active coordination and communication

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, offer leadership roles for engagement

dyspraxia

Use larger, easier-to-handle equipment, provide extra practice time, pair with supportive teammates

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of activities, establish quiet reflection zones, use consistent routines and signals

visual impairment

Use bright coloured dragonflies and cones, provide verbal descriptions of field layout, assign sighted buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for starts/stops, provide written strategy cards, ensure clear visual demonstrations

physical disability

Modify throwing distances, allow seated participation, provide appropriate alternative equipment

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Articulating strategic ideas, giving clear instructions, active listening during team discussions

Science

Understanding forces in throwing, body mechanics during movement, teamwork as biological cooperation

Geography

Spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns, understanding angles and directions

Mathematics

Calculating scores and statistics, measuring throwing distances, analysing patterns in successful strategies

PSHE

Leadership development, conflict resolution, building resilience under pressure, cooperation and communication

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between both game areas to observe all students, stand where both diamonds are visible

Observation Focus

Monitor strategic decision-making, team coordination, safety awareness, and skill application

Intervention Points

Step in when safety is compromised, when teams need strategic guidance, or when sportsmanship declines

Demonstration Notes

Use different coloured bibs for clear team identification, demonstrate techniques at slower speed first, emphasise strategic thinking over winning

Verbal Cues

•'Strategy over power!'
•'Quick coordination, fielding team!'
•'Where's the best placement for that throw?'
•'Excellent teamwork and communication!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large sports hall or outdoor area minimum 40m x 30m with clear boundaries

Surface Check

Non-slip surface free from obstacles, adequate drainage if outdoors

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check dragonflies for damage before use
•Ensure cones are stable and visible
•Verify base markers are secure and non-slip

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during base running
•Dragonfly strikes to head/body
•Slips during quick direction changes
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and safety zones established
•Adequate spacing between game areas
•Progressive warm-up before full activity
•Emphasis on control over power in throwing
•Regular hydration breaks during activity

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position between both game areas for maximum visibility
•Monitor competitive intensity and sportsmanship
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, arrange medical support if required