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      Pushing a ball with a racket/bat into space

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can dribble the ball into space using my racket to avoid defenders.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: pushing a ball with control using the head of the racket enables you to change direction and keep possession
      2. Think: concentration can help us dribble the ball into space to keep possession and avoid defenders.
      3. Feel: challenging yourself to keep the ball as close as possible when faced with defenders requires courage.
      4. Connect: playing by the rules and encouraging others to respect the rules develops a sense of fairness.

      Keywords

      • Possession - the team in control of the ball

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

      • Concentration - paying close attention to a given task

      Common misconception

      When moving into space and away from defenders, pupils panic and rush which causes them to lose control of their ball.

      Highlight the importance of always moving with control, even if it means moving a little slower at first.

      Teacher tip

      In the first learning cycle, pair the pupils accroding to their expereince and ability, and use different sized balls to offer different levels of challenge.

      Equipment

      1 racket per pupil, 1 ball per pupil, 30+ floor markers, 30+ cones, bibs.

      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 is a defender's main role in a game?

      to score points
      to pass accurately
      Correct answer: stop the opposition

      Q2.
      What are you dribbling with when you keep the ball close to you?

      Correct answer: close control
      hard touches
      big pushes

      Q3.
      What can make it easier for a defender to steal your ball?

      being far away
      Correct answer: being too close
      dribbling with control

      Q4.
      What can you get by supporting others?

      more points
      Correct answer: gratitude
      close control

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What can pushing the ball with control help you to do?

      tackle
      pass accurately
      Correct answer: change direction

      Q2.
      What can happen if you rush, when moving with your ball, away from defenders and into space?

      Correct answer: you lose control
      better control
      you will win

      Q3.
      When a team has possession, what do they have?

      Correct answer: the ball
      their racket
      more points

      Q4.
      When you follow the rules and encourage others to do the same, what are you demonstrating?

      control
      Correct answer: fairness
      speed

      To help you plan your 1 physical education lesson on: Pushing a ball with a racket/bat into space, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...