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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can dribble into space, changing direction with control, in order to keep possession of the ball.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: dribbling successfully requires keeping the ball close with control using hands, feet or sticks.
      2. Move: changing direction to move away from our opposition when dribbling helps us to keep possession of the ball.
      3. Think: deciding when and where to dribble will help our team to keep possession of the ball.
      4. Feel: not giving up by showing self-discipline will help us develop our dribbling technique.
      5. Connect: effective communication between team mates helps the team to keep possession of the ball when dribbling.

      Keywords

      • Dribbling - moving the ball with your feet or hands while keeping control of it

      • Control - keeping the ball close without losing possession

      • Possession - the team in control of the ball

      Common misconception

      Pupils take strong touches of the ball and move with the ball too far away from themselves so lose control easily.

      Remind pupils to take their time and keep the ball close to avoid losing control and possession.

      Teacher tip

      Give pupils more space to dribble within when creating your areas. You can gradually reduce the space as their skill level develops and confidence increases.

      Equipment

      1 ball per pupil (ball depends on the context), 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.
      When a team is in control of the ball, what are they doing?

      Correct answer: keeping possession
      defending
      blocking

      Q2.
      What makes a successful pass?

      rushing
      Correct answer: accuracy
      looking down

      Q3.
      If we are trying to win back possession, what have we become?

      Correct answer: the defenders
      the attackers
      the strikers

      Q4.
      What does self-motivation help you with?

      giving up
      letting others win
      Correct answer: striving to win

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Where should we dribble the ball in a game?

      Correct answer: into space
      to other players
      towards our goal

      Q2.
      Dribbling and passing are skills we can use in a game to keep ...

      losing.
      defending.
      Correct answer: possession.

      Q3.
      If a defender is in front of us, what can we do as we dribble the ball?

      Correct answer: Change direction.
      Stand still.
      Jump.

      Q4.
      Which skill should you use to warn a team mate that a defender is close?

      Correct answer: communication
      reflection
      trust

      To help you plan your 5 physical education lesson on: Dribbling and keeping control, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...