Grade 6 Physical And Health Education Handball – Tackling And Blocking Notes
Physical & Health Education — Handball
Subtopic: Tackling and Blocking (Age 11 — Kenyan school level)
Learning outcomes
- Explain the difference between tackling and blocking in handball.
- Show safe tackling and blocking positions in class drills.
- Follow the rules and play fairly when defending an opponent.
Quick meanings (simple)
Tackling — using your body to legally stop the player with the ball (not by hitting, pulling or tripping).
Blocking — using your body and hands/arms to stop or change a pass or shot (raise your arms, move in front of the ball).
Basic rules for defenders (school level, 11 years)
- You may use your body to block an attacker, but you cannot push, hit, trip, pull or hold.
- Do not use your arms to hit the opponent’s arms or the ball out of their hands by hitting their arm.
- Keep your feet on the ground when defending — avoid dangerous tackles that could cause falls.
- Stay between the player with the ball and the goal — that is the best place to block.
Safe tackling technique (step-by-step)
- Approach calmly: move towards the attacker at a steady pace — do not run and jump into them.
- Side-on position: stand slightly to one side of the attacker (not directly behind or in front).
- Low centre of gravity: bend your knees a little so you can move quickly sideways.
- Arms: keep arms ready to intercept the ball or gently block the space — do NOT grab or hit.
- Use feet and body: step across the attacker’s path to slow them, guide them away from the goal.
- Recover quickly: if attacker passes or moves, follow and get ready again.
Blocking technique (how to block shots and passes)
- Get between attacker and goal—this gives you the best chance to block.
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart for balance.
- Raise your arms up and fingers spread to make yourself bigger—hands should be high but safe (not swinging at the opponent’s face).
- Jump straight up (if needed) to block a high shot — do not push the shooter when jumping.
- Keep eyes on the ball, not the opponent’s body only.
Simple classroom visuals
Side-on Tackling Position
Step across the attacker to block their path. Keep knees bent and arms ready.
Blocking Shot — Arms Up
Defender raises arms to block the shot. Jump up straight, do not push the shooter.
Warm-up and simple drills (10–20 minutes)
- Jog and dynamic stretches (3–4 mins): arm circles, knee lifts.
- Shadow defending (5 mins): pairs — one attacker moves with ball slowly, defender practices side-on steps and blocking without contact.
- Block the shot (5 mins): attacker tries light shots; defender practices raising arms and jumping to block the ball. Use soft practice balls.
- Small game (5–10 mins): 3v3 on small court where defenders practice staying between attackers and the goal. Encourage fair play.
Safety tips for pupils and teachers
- Use soft school handballs for practice so hands and faces are safe.
- Make sure the playing area is clear of stones and hazards (important for Kenyan schools playing on grass or tarmac).
- Supervise all contact drills closely — stop any practice that becomes too rough.
- Wear proper shoes and school sports kit to avoid slips.
Teaching tips for Kenyan PHE teachers
- Demonstrate slowly first, then let pupils try in pairs before group play.
- Use local examples: show how to block a shot near the goal during a school match.
- Give positive feedback: praise correct body position and safe defending actions.
- Adapt drills to space and number of pupils — small-sided games help all pupils practice more.
Simple assessment (for pupils)
- Explain in your own words: what is the difference between tackling and blocking?
- Show the correct side-on tackling position during a class drill.
- During a 3v3 game, demonstrate raising your arms to block a shot safely.
Quick recap
Tackling and blocking are important for stopping opponents in handball. Always keep safety and fair play first: no pushing, pulling or dangerous tackles. Practice standing side-on, bending your knees, stepping across the attacker, and raising your arms to block shots.
Prepared for Kenya primary/upper primary P.E. lessons — suitable for age 11. Teachers: always adapt to your school's size, equipment, and pupils' abilities.