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Lesson 3 of 6
  • Year 9

Tackling and blocking

I can tackle and block attacking players.

Lesson 3 of 6
New
New
  • Year 9

Tackling and blocking

I can tackle and block attacking players.

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These resources were created for remote use during the pandemic and are not designed for classroom teaching.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: use an open hand to knock the ball out of your opponent's hands when tackling.
  2. Move: block the ball with your hands up and palms out, just as it leaves your opponent's foot.
  3. Think: tackles must target the body or the hand that is holding the ball.
  4. Feel: be brave when tackling and blocking, and ask others for help if you are struggling with the technique.
  5. Connect: collaborating and trusting your teammates helps increase opportunities to block or tackle in a game situation.

Keywords

  • Near hand tackle - a tackling technique to knock the ball from an opponent's possession with the open hand

  • Blocking - a defensive technique used to prevent an opponent from passing, kicking or shooting the ball

  • Defender - the primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring

Common misconception

Pupils use the wrong hand which leads to fouls and ineffective tackles, or they dive into the tackle, allowing attackers to easily sidestep away.

Always use the nearest hand to flick the ball away. Stay balanced when tackling, moving your feet quickly and timing the tackle properly.


To help you plan your year 9 physical education lesson on: Tackling and blocking, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

If pupils are struggling with the tackling and blocking technique, attackers should reduce their movement until pupils become more confident. You could also reduce the space the attackers are working in to make it easier for the defender.
Teacher tip

Equipment

1 ball per pair, approx 50 cones of various colours or markers for goals, bibs

Content guidance

  • Risk assessment required - physical activity

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Prior knowledge starter quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
After performing a punt kick, where should the kicker's foot aim?

in the air
towards the ground
Correct answer: towards the target

Q2.
Which of these is performed with the ball striking the inside of the foot?

Correct answer: hook kick
punt kick
open hand pass

Q3.
When performing a chest catch, what shape should our hands form?

X shape
T shape
Correct answer: W shape

Q4.
Which skill do you perform when you jump with one knee raised for balance and stability?

chest catch
Correct answer: high catch
soloing

Assessment exit quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
What can you and your teammates do to increase opportunities to tackle or block the opposition?

ignore each other
work independently
Correct answer: collaborate

Q2.
What should you use to knock the ball out of your opponent's hand when tackling?

a closed hand
Correct answer: an open hand
your wrist

Q3.
If an opponent is about to kick or pass the ball, how should you try to win possession back?

by running
Correct answer: by blocking
by fouling

Q4.
Where should you stand when preparing to tackle another player?

front on
Correct answer: side on
behind you