Football - Lesson 5

The fifth lesson in the Year 3 football curriculum focuses on developing shooting skills and understanding the role of the goalkeeper. The learning objectives are for pupils to be able to shoot with accuracy and to comprehend key goalkeeping skills. To achieve this, the lesson utilises a range of equipment including a class set of footballs, cones, and coloured bibs. The lesson begins with a 10-minute warm-up where pupils are divided into two groups; one group inside a rectangular area and the other along the edge, each with a ball. They practice passing and receiving, moving sideways after each pass, and can extend the challenge by using their weaker foot or increasing the distance for more difficult passes.

In the main 30-minute session, pupils learn that shooting is a crucial part of football as it leads to scoring goals. The key teaching point is the technique of shooting with the front of the foot for more power. Pupils practice shooting and also experience being a goalkeeper, understanding they can use their hands within the penalty box. Activities include setting up small goals for shooting practice, with pupils rotating the role of goalkeeper. The lesson is designed to improve quick footwork, positioning, and reactions, with extensions such as shooting from set distances or using the weaker foot to challenge more advanced pupils. The session concludes with a small-sided match to apply the practiced skills, and a 10-minute cool-down that includes gentle jogging, stretching exercises for different parts of the body, and a discussion on the importance of aiming and the balance between power and accuracy in shooting.