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Lesson 5 - Adapting to Changing Rules

Game Skills & Tactics

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Year 1

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Invasion Games

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45 min

Big Question

How can we stay successful when the rules of a game keep changing?

Learning Objectives

To play effectively in games where rules adapt and change
To recognise when rules have changed and adapt playing style accordingly
To explain the differences between different rule variations

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully participate in games with changing rules
Students will demonstrate understanding of rule differences
Students will adapt their tactics when rules change during gameplay

Equipment & Resources Required

Softballs

1 per 6-8 students

Place balls in central equipment area for easy collection

Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls, playground balls

Cones

8-12

Set up rectangular end zones at each end of playing areas

Alternative: Hoops, markers, painted lines

Bibs

2 sets (different colours)

Have sets ready for quick team formation

Alternative: Coloured bands, team cards

Key Vocabulary

Rules

Instructions that tell us how to play a game properly

Adapt

To change the way we do something to fit new situations

End Zone

The area where we try to score points

Possession

When your team has control of the ball

Strategy

A plan for how to play to be successful

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills
Understanding of simple game rules
Experience following instructions

Current Skills

Adapting play to changing rules
Recognition of rule differences
Flexible thinking in games

Next Steps

Creating own rule variations
Strategic thinking with complex rules
Teaching others rule adaptations

Milestone Indicators

Quick recognition when rules change

Smooth transition between different playing styles

Confident explanation of rule differences

Key Teaching Points

Rules exist to make games fair and fun for everyone
Listening carefully is essential when rules change during activities
Adaptation requires flexible thinking and positive attitude
Teamwork becomes more important when facing new challenges
Different rules create different tactical opportunities
Everyone can contribute ideas for improving games
Change can make activities more interesting and engaging

Common Misconceptions

Rules never change in real games - explain that many sports have rule variations
Only teachers can create rules - encourage student input and creativity
Rule changes make games unfair - emphasise that same rules apply to all teams
Good players don't need to adapt - explain that flexibility is a valuable skill
Complex rules are always better - show that simple changes can be very effective

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break rule explanations into smaller chunks, provide regular movement breaks, use clear visual boundaries

dyspraxia

Allow extra time for rule processing, provide simplified rule variations, offer additional demonstrations

autism spectrum

Provide advance warning of rule changes, use visual schedules for activities, offer quiet space if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide clear verbal descriptions of rule changes, assign sighted partner for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for rule changes, provide written rule cards, ensure clear line of sight for lip reading

physical disability

Modify rules to allow seated participation, use larger/lighter balls if needed, adjust playing area size

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex instructions, explaining rule differences clearly, using descriptive language for tactics

Maths

Counting scores in different ways, recognising number patterns in rule variations, calculating team points

Science

Understanding cause and effect in rule changes, observing patterns in gameplay adaptations

PSHE

Adapting to change positively, working cooperatively under different conditions, showing resilience when challenged

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location with clear sight lines to all playing areas, rotate between groups during activities

Observation Focus

Watch for rule compliance, adaptation speed, team cooperation, and safety awareness

Intervention Points

["Step in if students not following rule changes", "Support groups struggling with adaptation", "Mediate any conflicts arising from rule confusion"]

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate rule changes clearly, use exaggerated movements for clarity, involve students in demonstrations where safe

Verbal Cues

•'New rule coming - ears ready!'
•'How does this change your tactics?'
•'Help your teammates understand!'
•'Brilliant adaptation!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 15m per playing group

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles, adequate grip for movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check balls are properly inflated and soft enough for safe use
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or damage
•Verify bibs are clean and appropriate size

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between players during active games
•Slips and falls when changing direction quickly
•Minor impacts from balls during throwing/catching

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear boundaries for each playing area
•Ensure adequate spacing between teams
•Use soft balls appropriate for age group
•Provide clear instructions for each rule variation

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all playing areas simultaneously
•Move between groups to monitor rule compliance
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, contact office if needed