Lacrosse Grip & Cradling

Year Level

Year 6 (Australia)

Duration

60 minutes

Class Size

25 students

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Curriculum Context

This lesson aligns with the Australian Curriculum Health and Physical Education (v9) for Years 5 and 6.

Focus Content Descriptions:

• AC9HP6M07: Predict and test the effectiveness of applying different skills and strategies in a range of movement situations
• AC9HP6M09: Participate positively in groups and teams by contributing to group activities, encouraging others and negotiating roles and responsibilities
• AC9HP6M08: Devise and test alternative rules and game modifications to support fair play and inclusive participation

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate correct lacrosse stick grip techniques ensuring control and safety.
2. Perform basic cradling skills while maintaining control over the lacrosse ball.
3. Apply safe movement and spacing practices during paired cradling activities.
4. Collaborate respectfully with peers, encouraging positive participation and communication.

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Lesson Structure and Timing

1. Introduction & Warm-up (10 minutes)

• Brief review: Recap previous knowledge about lacrosse equipment and gameplay context.
• Warm-up activity: Dynamic stretches and light aerobic movement focusing on wrists, arms, and shoulders to prepare for stick handling.
• Safety briefing: Emphasise safe distances, awareness of personal space, and the importance of control during practice.

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2. Teaching Lacrosse Stick Grip (10 minutes)

• Instruction: Demonstrate proper two-handed grip on the lacrosse stick:
  • Dominant hand near the top third of the stick.
  • Non-dominant hand near the lower end of the stick.
  • Emphasise relaxed but firm grip maintaining flexibility in wrist movement.
• Student practice: Students replicate grip posture in place, with teacher feedback.
• Key points: Highlight wrists as the main source of movement, maintaining safe control.

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3. Introducing Cradling Technique (10 minutes)

• Explain and demonstrate cradling basics:
  • Cradling is a gentle rocking motion of the stick using wrists and forearms to keep the ball secure in the pocket.
  • Show hand and body positions emphasizing balance and control.
• Student demonstration: Students with sticks practice cradling independently while stationary.
• Teacher feedback: Provide individual correction and praise.

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4. Paired Practice: Cradling with Movement (20 minutes)

• Pair students up: Each pair has one lacrosse stick and ball.
• Activity:
  • One student practices cradling the ball while walking slowly, focusing on grip and controlling the ball.
  • The partner observes and provides positive feedback focusing on safety and control.
• Role swap: After 10 minutes, partners switch roles.
• Safety precautions: Remind students to maintain safe spacing and controlled movements to prevent collisions or dropping equipment.

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5. Cool Down & Reflection (10 minutes)

• Gentle stretches: Focus on wrists, fingers, arms, and shoulders.
• Group discussion:
  • Ask students to share what they found challenging and what helped them improve their grip and cradling.
  • Emphasise the importance of teamwork and communication in paired practice.
  • Discuss how safety and control influence performance.
• Set expectations: Brief preview of next lesson focusing on passing and catching in lacrosse.

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Equipment Needed

• One lacrosse stick and ball per pair (13 sticks and balls recommended for 25 students)
• Cones or markers to define practice spaces
• First aid kit for safety preparedness

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Assessment

Formative assessment will be conducted throughout the lesson by:

• Observing each student’s ability to correctly hold the lacrosse stick and perform cradling motions.
• Monitoring paired activity for appropriate safety, control, and positive peer interaction.
• Using questioning during the reflection phase to gauge understanding of techniques and safety.

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Differentiation

• Support: Provide students with larger grip lacrosse sticks or softer balls if needed to aid control.
• Extension: Challenge advanced students to practice cradling while jogging or changing direction.
• Inclusion: Ensure all students are paired to encourage peer support and adjust activity pace for individual needs.

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Health and Safety Considerations

• Reinforce safe handling of equipment to avoid accidental injury.
• Maintain adequate spacing between pairs during movement drills.
• Monitor students for fatigue or discomfort and adapt activities accordingly.

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Cross-curriculum Priorities & General Capabilities

• Personal and Social Capability: Collaboration, communication, and respect in pairs.
• Critical and Creative Thinking: Problem solving during skill acquisition and adaptation.
• Ethical Understanding: Fair play and safety focus in physical activity participation.

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Teacher Reflection Notes (Post Lesson)

• Evaluate how effectively students mastered the grip and cradling basics.
• Reflect on students’ ability to practise safely and respectfully in pairs.
• Adjust timing or activity difficulty if necessary for future lessons.

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This lesson provides students with foundational skills in lacrosse stick handling focusing on grip and cradling, key for safe and effective participation as per Australian Curriculum expectations for Physical Education in Year 6 .