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Dribbling and keeping possession using our feet

Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can dribble with the ball at my feet and under control.

Key learning points

  1. Move: avoiding defenders when dribbling with the ball requires changes in speed and direction.
  2. Move: dribbling using the inside and outside of both feet helps us to change direction and move away from defenders.
  3. Think: moving into space away from defenders when dribbling the ball requires close control.
  4. Feel: staying within the restricted zones and playing by the rules shows an understanding of fairness.
  5. Connect: ensuring you swap roles when the defender gains possession of the ball demonstrates honesty.

Keywords

  • Dribbling - using your hands or feet to move with the ball keeping it under control

  • Possession - the team in control of the ball

  • Defender - the player or person responsible for preventing the opposition (attackers) from scoring

Common misconception

Pupils kick the ball too far ahead of them, using their toes to kick it, rather than keeping control with lighter touches.

Remind pupils that the further the ball is away from them, the easier it is for a defender to take it.

Teacher tip

A size 3 ball is most suitable for pupils of this age, however smaller balls could be used to challenge pupils. When splitting the group, doing so by ability and expereince will ensure suitable challenge for all pupils.

Equipment

1 ball per pupil, 30+ cones.

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - physical activity

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
(Collection 2).

Prior knowledge starter quiz

4 Questions

Q1.
What are you doing when you use your hands or feet to move with the ball?

passing
Correct answer: dribbling
running

Q2.
Where should you move after passing the ball to a teammate?

nowhere
towards a defender
Correct answer: into space

Q3.
Where is best to dribble the ball when you receive it?

Correct answer: into space
towards a defender
on the spot

Q4.
What skill can help you and your team make the correct decisions in games?

dribbling
passing
Correct answer: communication

4 Questions

Q1.
Which would be more suitable for dribbling the ball with control?

Correct answer: light, soft touches
heavy, hard touches
big toe kicks

Q2.
Which part of your feet is it best to use when dribbling a ball?

toes
top and bottom
Correct answer: inside and outside

Q3.
When dribbling, what can you change to avoid a defender?

the ball
Correct answer: speed and direction
your team

Q4.
What do a team have when they have control of the ball?

Correct Answer: possession

To help you plan your 2 physical education lesson on: Dribbling and keeping possession using our feet, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...