Teams:

• Basketball is typically played with two teams, each consisting of five players on the court at a time.
• Additional players are available on the bench for substitutions.

           The Court:

• A standard basketball court is 28 metres long by 15 metres in wide.
• There are two main areas on the court: the frontcourt (offensive side) and the backcourt (defensive side), divided by the half-court line.
• The court features a hoop at each end, elevated 3 metres above the floor (a lower height should be considered for children playing).

           Scoring:

• A goal is scored from outside the three-point arc is worth 3 points.
• A goal is scored from inside the three-point arc is worth 2 points.
• Free throws are worth 1 point each.

           The Game:

• The game is divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes.
• The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
• ‘Overtime’ periods are played if the score is tied at the end of the standard game time.
• Each team has a limited amount of time (usually 24 seconds) to attempt a shot, known as the ‘shot clock’. If a team fails to attempt a shot within the shot clock time, the opposing team gains possession.

           Starting Play:

• The game begins with a ‘jump ball’ at the centre of the court, where the referee throws the ball into the air, and players from each team jump to try catch it.
• The team that wins the jump ball gets the first possession of the game.

           Dribbling:

• Players are allowed to move with the ball by dribbling, which means continuously bouncing the ball while moving.
• Double dribbling (starting to dribble again after stopping) and carrying (palming) the ball are violations.

           Possession and Shot Clock:

• The team with possession of the ball tries to advance it toward their opponent's basket to score.
• The opposing team plays defense to prevent the offensive team from scoring.
• If the defensive team steals the ball or the offensive team misses a shot, the defense team gains possession.

           Violations:

• Common violations include travelling (taking too many steps without dribbling), double dribbling carrying and stepping out of bounds.
• Other violations include goaltending (blocking a shot on its way down), charging (offensive player runs into a defender), and illegal screens.

           Foul Rules:

• Fouls are called for illegal physical contact, such as pushing, holding or tripping an opponent.
• When a player accumulates a certain number of fouls (usually five), they are disqualified from the game.
• Free throws are awarded to the fouled player, and the game resumes from the point of interruption.

In Lower Key Stage 2 Basketball, children should continue to develop ball control, improving control when moving around, and increasing the accuracy and control when passing, shooting and receiving. PE Planning's Year 4 Basketball lesson plans improve decision making in game situations, allowing children to make passes and move into good positions to make it difficult for opponents.  Children are encouraged to work well with others, communicating and collaborating, whilst being fair and respectful when competing against others.

Basketball lessons play an important role in primary school PE.  They provide opportunities for children to use running, jumping, throwing and catching in game situations, and continue to develop balance, strength, agility and control.  Basketball lessons also give children a chance to participate in competitive games, using basic principles suitable for attacking and defending. Primary School Basketball is also great for promoting values such as respect and for helping children become physically confident and competent to support their health and fitness.

PE Planning lesson plans are created by PE Specialists, with every plan featuring all the resources you need to deliver a complete Unit of Work.  Each PE lesson plan has full guidance, including illustrations - choose to download either a quick reference plan or a full lesson plan. Our Year 4 Basketball lesson plans follow the National Curriculum and allow you to deliver fun, engaging and rewarding Basketball lessons to your Year 4 pupils.  Best of all, our Basketball plans are quick and easy to download and follow, making your life easier!