Basketball - Lesson 4

In the fourth lesson of a Year 6 basketball series, students are taught the vital skills of defending and marking an opponent. The learning objectives are clearly stated: pupils should be able to utilise the defensive stance effectively and mark opponents in a game scenario. The success criteria include being able to defend using the defensive stance and marking in a game situation. Key vocabulary such as 'defend', 'mark', 'wide', 'strong', 'opponent', and 'intercept' are introduced to enhance the students' understanding of the concepts. Equipment needed for the lesson includes a class set of basketballs, cones, and basketball hoops, ensuring a fully equipped and engaging session.

The lesson plan is structured to include a warm-up where half the class practices dribbling and passing while the others wait on the court's perimeter, ready to swap roles. This is followed by the main activity, focusing on the defensive aspect of the game. Students learn the defensive stance, practising side-stepping and maintaining awareness of their surroundings. They then apply their skills in a game of 'End Zone', where they earn points by successfully receiving a pass in the opponent's zone, while also focusing on marking their assigned opponents. The session concludes with a cool down consisting of gentle stretches such as arm circles, side stretches, and leg stretches to ensure the students' muscles are properly cared for after the physical activity.