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      Attacking territory to score in the end zone

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can break the defensive line using a variety of tactics

      Key learning points

      1. Move: breaking a defensive line is achieved by moving the ball forwards via passing and running to attack territory.
      2. Think: territory can be gained effectively by understanding when it is best to pass, run or change direction.
      3. Think: tactical solutions enable you to plan how best to outwit the opposition
      4. Feel: playing fair and self-officiating demonstrates self-discipline.
      5. Connect: collaboration with team mates is even more important when under pressure.

      Keywords

      • Wing - the extreme left or right side of the field, pitch or court

      • Territory - a term used to describe the area of court/pitch that is closer to your opponent's goal line

      • Penetration - breaking a team's defensive line

      Common misconception

      Route one - not utilising width or depth and just crowding the ball down the middle of the pitch/court.

      When attacking, it is important to use the full width of the pitch/court to draw defenders out and create space for a scoring opportunity. It is also sometimes necessary to move the ball back, before moving forward again, if the space is too crowded.

      Teacher tip

      Like other lessons in this unit, you are encouraged to provide variety of ball, goals and basic rules from different invasion games to unpick generic principles and understand the transfer of important concepts.

      Equipment

      a variety of footballs, handballs, basketballs, netballs, rugby balls etc as appropriate; goals/baskets; bibs

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - equipment

      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 is the way you set up players on the court/pitch when attacking or defending called?

      zones
      Correct answer: formations
      technique

      Q2.
      By creating a triangle of options for the ball carrier, what are you more likely to achieve?

      tackling safely
      gaining territory
      Correct answer: keeping possession

      Q3.
      Which of the following requires the most self-discipline?

      Correct answer: self-officiating
      scoring goals
      winning games

      Q4.
      What is it called when you offer help to your teammate in possession of the ball?

      Correct answer: support play
      defensive play
      biased play

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Breaking the defensive line is achieved by moving the ball in which direction?

      sideways
      Correct answer: forwards
      backwards

      Q2.
      What is the term given to the far left or right of a pitch/court?

      goal line
      Correct answer: wing
      dug out

      Q3.
      What is breaking a team's defensive line during an attack called?

      outwitting
      obstruction
      Correct answer: penetration

      Q4.
      What is it called when you pass the ball back to regroup, find space and attack again from a different angle?

      defensive
      Correct answer: recylce
      negative play

      To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Attacking territory to score in the end zone, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...