Volleyball Lesson Plans

Person demonstrating the bump for volleyball lesson plans.

Volleyball lesson plans aim to provide every student with a foundation in which they can develop their volleyball skills, eventually leading to fun and successful gameplay. To do so, physical education classes can focus on a skill-specific volleyball unit that introduces the basic skills of volleyball, such as bumping, passing, setting, serving, and more.

 

While working on different practice drills, students can also explore the basic rules and strategies of volleyball, with a bonus of different games and activities they can play in small-side games and larger groups. Check out fantastic resources and activities for your tennis unit.

Importance Of Skill Development Volleyball Lesson Plans In Physical Education

 

Outside of physical education, volleyball players might be eager to jump into full-blown volleyball games. However, in physical education, jumping right into full-blown volleyball games will leave many students in class feeling frustrated and left behind, regardless of grade level.

 

For example, 6 vs. 6 volleyball will typically involve many short and unsuccessful rallies. So, even with upper-grade levels and volleyball lesson plans for high school, physical education teachers would be best served to introduce different game elements through skill and drill practice.

 

Through a skill development approach, teachers can differentiate and modify the fundamental skills of tennis for every experience and ability level within a class.

 

For example, here are four simple drills for the bump in volleyball lesson plans:

  • Stationary Bump – Player 1 tosses an underhand ball to Player 2, who bumps back.

  • Shuffling Bump – Player 1 tosses an underhand ball to space, so Player 2 must move to bump the ball back properly.

  • Over The Net Bump – Now, player 1 tosses from over the net, so player 2 must bump the ball harder to get it over the net with control.

  • Consecutive Bumps – Small groups of players try to accumulate as many bumps as possible, practicing more game-like skills.

 

Player tossing the ball to partner for them to practice bump in volleyball.
Example of partners practicing the stationary bump drill.

3 Drills + 1 Bonus Game For Volleyball Lesson Plans 

Below are three different volleyball drills for beginner players in physical education. These volleyball drills are from PLT4M and come fully loaded with instructional videos, written notes, and helpful tip ideas. In addition, we highlight one popular volleyball game that helps to build confidence and comfort for all ability levels.

#1 – Stationary Bump

The bump in volleyball is using the forearms to pass the ball, typically used for receiving serves or playing balls below the chest/waist.

 

In this drill within our volleyball lesson plans we are working on the basics of bumping! It is okay if you have to move your feet to position yourself in front of the ball, but the goal is to not add too much foot movement in yet!

 

Partner 1: (Tosser)

– Perform a two-handed underhand toss to partner 2.

– Aim the ball so that it arrives in front of your partner below chest height.

– Catch the ball and repeat for a set number of reps before switching.

 


Partner 2: (Bumper)

– Follow the points of performance of the bump listed in the description. (Found in full PLT4M program.)

– Work to bump the ball back to your partner with control and accuracy so that they can catch and repeat the toss.

– Repeat the motion for set number of reps.

#2 – Stationary Set

The set in volleyball is using the fingertips to direct the ball to a hitter, typically above the head/chest.

 

In this drill we are working on the basics of setting! It is okay if you have to move your feet to position yourself in front of the ball, but the goal is to not add too much foot movement in yet!

 

Partner 1: (Tosser)

– Perform a two-handed underhand toss to partner 2.

– Aim the ball so that it arrives in front of your partner above chest/eye height.

– Catch the ball and repeat for a set number of reps before switching.

 

Partner 2: (Setter)

– Follow the points of performance of the set listed in the description. (Found in full PLT4M program.)

– Work to set the ball back to your partner with control and accuracy so that they can catch and repeat the toss.

– Repeat the motion for set number of reps.

#3 – Consecutive Bumps & Sets

This drill can be performed in small groups with 2 or more players during volleyball lesson plans. The goal is to accumulate as many consecutive passes (bumps and sets) as possible in your group.

 

– To start the drill, the first player will perform an underhand toss to a partner in the group.

– From here, partners will call for the ball saying “mine” or something similar to work on communication.

– Shuffle and square up to the ball as necessary and bump/set the ball back and forth with your partners.

– You do not need to hit in a circle, but rather set at random to different partners in your group.

– If the ball drops, reset and repeat. Set a goal for the number of consecutive reps, and see what you can do!

– Now players can bump and set starting to make more game like decisions for what works best!

Bonus Game – One Bounce Volleyball

One bounce volleyball is a very popular version of the game to perform in PE classes. We demo this version with two people per team, but you can have more on each team based on your class and group size.

 

The rules of the game are simple! Instead of having to keep the ball in the air, each team is allowed to let the ball bounce as it comes over the net onto their side of the court. After letting the ball bounce, players then can the ball up to 3 times on their side before it has to be sent back over.

 

This is a popular version because it allows for more control and longer rallies. In addition, players can set additional rules like teams must hit the ball at least 2 or 3 times (avoiding just ping ponging it back and forth with one hit).

Key Takeaways On Volleyball Lesson Plans For Physical Education

 

Volleyball is a fantastic life skill for students to learn and practice because it offers versatile play environments and valuable lessons beyond the court. Whether playing on the sandy beach, in a backyard with friends, or at a local gym, volleyball encourages teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking.

 

These skills are crucial for the game and also translate to other areas of life, such as collaboration in group projects and problem-solving in various situations. Volleyball’s adaptability and ability to be enjoyed in diverse settings make it an accessible and engaging way for students to develop resilience and social skills while having fun.

 

However, volleyball lesson plans for physical education should focus on skill development to get students and players to reap the benefits. Contact PLT4M to learn more about our volleyball lesson plans, other great modules, and physical activities!

What other types of lesson plans and workouts does PLT4M have?

 

Consider PLT4M your full learning management system for health and physical education.

 

PLT4M has a full slate of PE lessons for physical education teachers to choose from! From PE games to fitness activities, PLT4M has countless options. Check out some of the most popular below:

 

Is PLT4M aligned to Shape Standards?

 

Yes, every program is aligned to the PLT4M to the Shape Standards. SHAPE America’s National Standards & Grade-Level Outcomes for K-12 Physical Education define what a student should know and be able to do as result of a highly effective physical education program. This guide demonstrates how the PLT4M programs align with grade level standards, helping you achieve and accomplish a standards-based curriculum.

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