Introduce the STEP principle focusing on space
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain the STEP principle and why space is important in an activity.
Key learning points
- Move: in smaller spaces it’s harder to avoid defenders, so we need to look up and use good speed and agility.
- Think: we have to ensure the space we work in is not too big or too small, otherwise the game will not be effective.
- Feel: taking responsibility for each pupil feeling involved in the activity shows empathy.
- Connect: communicating within our teams to evaluate the space required for a game demonstrates that we can lead others.
Keywords
Space - the area where the game is played and an open area where defenders and other players are not standing
Game - an activity or sport in which people compete with each other according to agreed rules
Defending - the player or person responsible for preventing the opposition (attackers) from scoring
Common misconception
Pupils believe that more space always makes an activity better or more challenging.
In reality, too much space can make games too easy or boring because pupils don’t have to use skills like dodging, teamwork or quick thinking to avoid others.
Teacher tip
Ensure pupils have the opportunity to trial activities in different spaces so they can experience first hand the impact of changing the space.
Equipment
30+ cones, bibs, additional resources: leading an activity activity cards.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.As a leader, how should you communicate with your team?
Q2.What type of communication are facial expressions?
Q3.What do you need to do to be an effective leader and support your team?
Q4.Why is clear communication an important leadership skill?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What word describes the changeable area where a game is played?
Q2.What may happen to an activity if you use too much space?
Q3.How can you and your team effectively evaluate how much space an activity will need?
Q4.What are you showing an understanding of when you adapt an area to make an activity work better?
To help you plan your 6 physical education lesson on: Introduce the STEP principle focusing on space, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 6 physical education lesson on: Introduce the STEP principle focusing on space, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 2 physical education lessons from the Outdoor adventurous activities: leadership unit, dive into the full primary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.