Lesson 3 - Understanding Rules and Fair Play
Fair Play: Sharks & Fishes
•Reception
•Invasion Games
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Why do we need rules to make games fair and fun for everyone?
Learning Objectives
- Understand why games have rules and the importance of following them
- Experience the consequences of breaking game rules
- Develop basic movement skills whilst playing fairly with others
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate understanding of game rules by following them consistently
- Students will show respect for others by playing fairly and taking turns
- Students will move confidently in different directions whilst avoiding collisions
Equipment & Resources Required
One per 'fish' student, easily removable but secure
Alternative: Coloured scarves tucked into waistbands, coloured spots stuck to clothing
Mark out coral reef safe zones - approximately 1m x 1m areas
Alternative: Cones, hoops, rope circles
For clear start/stop signals
Alternative: Tambourine, bell, hand claps
For groups to track their scores visibly
Alternative: Large paper sheets, counting tokens
Key Vocabulary
Instructions that tell us how to play fairly and safely
What happens when we don't follow the rules
Playing honestly and being kind to others
To touch someone gently with your hand
Empty areas where no one else is standing
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic understanding of taking turns
- Simple running and stopping skills
- Following one-step instructions
Current Skills
- Understanding game rules and consequences
- Moving into space to avoid others
- Playing fairly and honestly
Next Steps
- More complex game rules with multiple steps
- Team tactics and cooperation
- Self-officiating simple games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Rules exist to keep games fair and safe for everyone
- Following rules shows respect for others and makes games more enjoyable
- Consequences help us learn and remember important behaviours
- Gentle tagging protects others from injury while keeping the game fun
- Honest play and good sportsmanship are more important than winning
- Taking turns and sharing spaces helps everyone participate equally
- Moving with control and awareness prevents accidents and conflicts
Common Misconceptions
- Rules are just to stop fun - explain how rules actually make games more enjoyable for everyone
- Breaking rules only affects me - demonstrate how rule-breaking impacts others' enjoyment
- Winning is most important - emphasise that fair play and effort matter more than results
- Tagging means grabbing or pushing - teach that gentle touching is the appropriate technique
- Rules in games don't matter in real life - connect game rules to everyday situations
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break instructions into smaller chunks, provide fidget opportunities during discussions, celebrate movement and energy positively
dyspraxia
- Demonstrate all movements multiple times, allow extra processing time, provide physical guidance for tagging technique, simplify complex instructions
autism spectrum
- Provide visual rule cards, maintain consistent routines, offer quiet space if needed, use clear structure and warnings for transitions
visual impairment
- Use contrasting colours for boundaries and equipment, provide clear verbal descriptions of spatial layout, buddy system with sighted partner
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals alongside whistle, demonstrate all instructions clearly, ensure child can see teacher's face when speaking
physical disability
- Modify tagging to gentle high-five, allow seated participation where appropriate, adjust star jumps to arm movements
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting star jumps, keeping score, timing in coral reefs, comparing group totals
Science
Understanding consequences (cause and effect), observing movement patterns, body awareness during exercise
PSHE
Fairness and justice, empathy for others, personal responsibility, dealing with disappointment
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central location with clear sight lines to all three group areas, move actively during activities
Observation Focus
Watch for gentle tagging, rule compliance, fair play demonstrations, and inclusive behaviour
Intervention Points
Step in immediately for unsafe tagging, provide rule reminders as needed, celebrate positive examples
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for clarity, model enthusiasm for rule-following, show empathy in interactions
Verbal Cues
- •'Gentle touches only!'
- •'Remember to give the tag back immediately!'
- •'Let's count those star jumps together!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Indoor hall minimum 15m x 10m or outdoor space equivalent, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, free from debris, adequate grip for movement changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Tag belts fitted securely but not tightly
- •Coral reef markers flush with ground to prevent tripping
- •No sharp edges on any equipment
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during enthusiastic chasing
- •Rough tagging leading to falls
- •Overexertion during star jumps
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established and reinforced
- •Emphasis on gentle tagging throughout
- •Monitor activity levels and provide rest as needed
- •Separate group areas to reduce collision risk
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all three group areas
- •Move actively between groups during activities
- •Watch for signs of overexcitement or fatigue
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately with whistle, assess situation, apply first aid if needed, contact school procedures