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Lesson 3 of 6
  • Year 11

Blocks and defensive techniques

I can guard and block effectively to defend against attacks.

Lesson 3 of 6
New
New
  • Year 11

Blocks and defensive techniques

I can guard and block effectively to defend against attacks.

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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: using the bony part of the forearm to block attacks ensures a stronger defence.
  2. Move: blocking with small, controlled movements allows quick reactions to attackers movements.
  3. Think: returning quickly to a guard position after each block keeps your defence ready.
  4. Feel: practising controlled and safe blocking and striking techniques develops and demonstrates respect.
  5. Connect: working cooperatively and communicating clearly with partners ensures safe and effective practice.

Keywords

  • Guard - a defensive stance to protect yourself

  • Block - a movement used to deflect or stop an attack

  • Strike - a deliberate attack using a part of the body or an object to hit a target area, such as the head, body or legs

Common misconception

Pupils often drop their guard after blocking leaving their head and body exposed.

Focus on returning to the guard stance after every block and continue to prompt pupils throughout the lesson.


To help you plan your year 11 physical education lesson on: Blocks and defensive techniques, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

Emphasise the importance of control for the attackers when using the pool noodles. Accurate strikes are important to allow the blockers to practice blocking effectively. For anxious students, focus on blocking single strikes and provide verbal cues before striking.
Teacher tip

Equipment

Pool noodles (1 between 2) or boxing pads or foam javelins

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.
What can you create through giving positive feedback?

Correct answer: positive learning environemnt
arguments
confusion

Q2.
Which hand is used when performing a jab?

either
Correct answer: front
rear

Q3.
What part of your body should your hands be in front of when in the guard position?

head
Correct answer: chest
knees

Q4.
Which movement requires rotation of the hips and shoulders to generate power?

jab punch
Correct answer: cross punch
front kick

Assessment exit quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
Which hand do you use for blocking?

Correct Answer: lead hand, lead

Q2.
Which of the following describes how blocking movements should be performed?

big and controlled
Correct answer: small and controlled
wide and random

Q3.
Which body part should the arm be positioned in front of when blocking a low strike?

Correct answer: knee
chest
ankle

Q4.
What name is used to describe the action where we deliberately attack using a part of the body or an object to hit a target area, such as the head, body or legs?

Correct Answer: strike, a strike