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Responding to tactical challenges in different scenarios

Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can respond to different in-game challenges and apply appropriate formations and tactics as a team.

Key learning points

  1. Move: switching between attacking and defending, and getting into the correct formation quickly requires fast reactions.
  2. Think: being able to justify tactical decisions such as when to delay or be more assertive requires careful evaluation.
  3. Feel: emotional intelligence is shown by recognising, understanding and managing the emotions of the self and others.
  4. Connect: noticing and sharing insight into the opposition's tactics helps with team performance.

Keywords

  • Clear - used in defence to get the ball away from your own goal

  • Zone - a strategy of marking an area of the pitch rather than a player

  • Goal side - a tactic when defending to put yourself between the player and your own goal

Common misconception

Pupils are unable to adjust their team tactics based on the situation.

Changing the way you play as a team to include formation, tactics and roles of different players can have a huge impact on the game and a shift in momentum that disrupts your opposition.

Teacher tip

Carefully consider the needs, interests and skill levels of everyone in your class when deciding whether to focus on ball in hand or at feet and what ball(s) to use.

Equipment

1 handball/ netball/ basketball/ football between 6, cones as goals, 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.
What is it called when you slow a player down by getting to the goal side and steering them wide/onto their weak side?

restraint
outlet
Correct answer: jockeying

Q2.
Who should implement tactics to ensure they are effective?

you
Correct answer: your whole team
your teammates

Q3.
What is it called when you counter attack with a quick pass up field?

a 1-2
Correct answer: an outlet pass
a javelin pass

Q4.
Which of the following doesn’t always require clear communication and commitment from all?

organising defensive strategies
Correct answer: scoring
set plays

4 Questions

Q1.
What is it called when you are defending and kick/throw the ball hard away from your own goal?

a volley
Correct answer: a clear
a 1-2

Q2.
What do you need to transition between attack and defence?

slow footwork
Correct answer: quick reactions
an outlet player

Q3.
Which strategy marks an area of the pitch?

diamond plays
delay
Correct answer: zone

Q4.
What should you adjust based on the specific situation in the game?

the rules
Correct answer: team tactics
officiating decisions

To help you plan your 8 physical education lesson on: Responding to tactical challenges in different scenarios, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...