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      Combine passing and dribbling to create space

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can pass and dribble in a game to create space to help my team keep possession of the ball.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: dribbling the ball with control and changing direction helps us beat a defender and creates scoring chances.
      2. Think: selecting between bounce or chest passes helps outwit our opponents, creating scoring opportunities.
      3. Think: quick decisions as to whether to pass or dribble in a game situation increases our chance of keeping possession.
      4. Feel: encouraging our teammates, even when they make mistakes, shows that we are an excellent role model to others.
      5. Connect: communicating and collaborating with our team and with our opponents is an excellent way of showing respect.

      Keywords

      • Dribbling - moving the ball with your hands

      • Pass - transferring the ball from one player to another

      • Outwit - using tactics and strategies to gain an advantage over our opponents.

      Common misconception

      Pupils often mistake dribbling fast and dribbling with control, which causes them to lose control of the ball. Often pupils won't catch the ball but just move straight into a dribble.

      Explain to pupils that dribbling fast is good but dribbling with control is essential. The better control they have, the faster they will be able to dribble. Remind them that they should receive the ball and assess the best option before dribbling.

      Teacher tip

      Reinforce that good spacing allows for better passing and dribbling opportunities, whilst also making it harder for defenders. Ensure playing areas have enough space for pupils to apply this. Remind pupils that they cannot take the ball out of an opponent's hands.

      Equipment

      1 ball between 2 pupils, 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.
      Which type of pass is a short, straight throw to your teammate?

      bounce pass
      Correct answer: chest pass
      shoulder pass

      Q2.
      What is it called when you use your hands to move with the ball?

      running
      shooting
      Correct answer: dribbling

      Q3.
      Which pass is best when a defender is in between you and your teammate?

      chest pass
      Correct answer: bounce pass
      slow pass

      Q4.
      What should you do if your teammate makes a mistake?

      Correct answer: Encourage them.
      Shout at them.
      Ignore them.

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      When attacking, where is it most beneficial to dribble the ball?

      towards a defender
      towards a teammate
      Correct answer: into space

      Q2.
      Which technique will work best for keeping possession when dribbling?

      Correct answer: dribbling with control
      quicker bounces
      harder bounces

      Q3.
      Encouraging your teammates when they make a mistake makes you an excellent ...

      passer.
      Correct answer: role model.
      shooter.

      Q4.
      What word can be used to describe when you use tactics and strategies to gain an advantage over your opponents?

      accuracy
      skill
      Correct answer: outwit

      To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Combine passing and dribbling to create space, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...