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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can dribble in order to keep control and possession of the ball.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: dribbling into space requires bent knees, strong wrists, using fingertips while also keeping our head up.
      2. Move: we need close control so we can change direction or speed to move into space away from defenders.
      3. Think: dribbling into space with the ball under control makes it difficult for the defender to gain possession.
      4. Feel: working hard on our dribbling technique shows that we are determined to improve.
      5. Connect: showing respect to the opposition is important and enables fair play.

      Keywords

      • Dribbling - moving the ball with your hands

      • Control - keeping the ball close and moving it where you want it to go

      • Space - an open area where your opponent isn't standing

      Common misconception

      Pupils often try to bounce the ball too hard, resulting in dribbling it too high. Pupils believe they can only dribble with one hand.

      Bending your knees and dribbling lower with control will make it harder for a defender to steal the ball. You can only dribble with one hand at a time, however switching between hands is an effective way to dribble with control.

      Teacher tip

      Emphasise the importance of keeping their head up while dribbling. When pupils are using their fingertips to dribble, ensure they are using the inside pads of their fingertips and not the end of them.

      Equipment

      1 basketball per pupil, 30+ floor markers, 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 do we call moving with a ball?

      passing
      Correct answer: dribbling
      shooting

      Q2.
      Keeping the ball close to you when you dribble is known as what?

      close ball
      Correct answer: close control
      close dribble

      Q3.
      Which of these sports is an invasion game?

      tennis
      cricket
      Correct answer: netball

      Q4.
      What does being determined mean?

      Correct answer: not giving up
      winning
      always listening

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Why is it important to keep your head up when dribbling?

      to be comfortable
      Correct answer: to find space
      to move fast

      Q2.
      What helps you change direction and speed quickly?

      Correct answer: close control
      fast running
      strong bounces

      Q3.
      Which skill is important for effectively dribbling a basketball and keeping possession?

      bouncing it hard
      dribbling it fast
      Correct answer: low, controlled dribbling

      Q4.
      How can you demonstrate fair play?

      winning
      accurate passing
      Correct answer: being respectful

      To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Dribbling (hand), download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...