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      Kicking, chasing and retrieving a kicked ball

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use a variety of kicks to get the ball accurately into space.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: dropping the ball onto the top of the striking foot, to use the laces, increases the accuracy of most kicks.
      2. Think: you need to be behind the kicker to be considered onside and able to chase down a kick.
      3. Feel: unconventional chip and chase, grubber and cross-field kicks are fun and can provide creative solutions.
      4. Connect: working closely with a group of players enables you to provide just the right level of support and challenge.

      Keywords

      • Up and under kick - a high kick to run on to and challenge for the ball in the air

      • Grubber kick - a low, bouncing kick that travels along the ground

      • Breadbasket catch - a player cups their arms together in front of their chest to securely catch and cradle the ball, pulling it in to prevent a knock-on

      Common misconception

      A kick is only good if it is kicked far.

      Kicking a ball successfully involves accuracy and tactical placement to find space, kicking into touch or to allow one of your team to catch and maintain possession.

      Teacher tip

      Be aware of space and direction here when pupils are kicking a balll - have them kicking in the same direction to avoid any collisions. You may also prefer to bring kicking in later in the sequence of learning to stop it distracting players from prioritising passing.

      Equipment

      15 balls (1 between 2) and 30+ cones.

      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.
      How could you evade a defender?

      run straight
      stop running
      Correct answer: side-step

      Q2.
      Where should a support runner start in relation to the ball carrier?

      Correct answer: behind
      next to
      in front of

      Q3.
      What is it called when a player uses deception to pretend to pass?

      cheating
      spin pass
      Correct answer: dummy pass

      Q4.
      Which is not a way to evade a defender?

      change direction
      change speed
      Correct answer: change grip

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      How should you catch a high kick?

      Correct answer: breadbasket
      egg box
      apple cart

      Q2.
      Where should you make contact with the ball when kicking?

      side of boot
      toe of boot
      Correct answer: boot laces

      Q3.
      Which is not a type of kick?

      grubber
      Correct answer: spin
      up and under

      Q4.
      What is the most important aspect of kicking?

      Correct answer: kicking it accurately
      kicking it wide
      kicking it straight

      To help you plan your 8 physical education lesson on: Kicking, chasing and retrieving a kicked ball, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...