Lesson 6 - Back Passing and Game Application
Evasion to Strategy
•Year 3
•Tag Rugby
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How can we use backward passing to create more attacking opportunities in tag rugby?
Learning Objectives
- To implement new back passing skills in a competitive game format
- To demonstrate accurate backwards passing technique in unopposed and opposed situations
- To work collaboratively as part of a team through effective communication
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully execute backward passes during competitive gameplay
- Students will demonstrate improved spatial awareness when passing under pressure
- Students will show enhanced teamwork through supportive communication and listening skills
Equipment & Resources Required
Placed in central equipment area for easy access
Alternative: Soft rugby balls, foam footballs
Pre-distributed in team colours if available
Alternative: Velcro strips, flag belts
Mark 4-5 playing areas with clear try lines
Alternative: Spot markers, rope boundaries
Distinguish attackers and defenders clearly
Alternative: Coloured bands, team pennants
For timing game rotations and activities
Alternative: Phone timer, visible clock
Key Vocabulary
A pass that travels towards your own try line, which is legal in rugby
Turning at the waist to pass behind while keeping feet facing forward
The player currently holding the ball who can be tagged
Teammates who position themselves to receive a pass
The line that must be crossed to score points
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling and catching skills
- Understanding of forward passing rules
- Experience with tag rugby basic gameplay
- Simple communication skills in team activities
Current Skills
- Hip rotation technique for backward passing
- Two-handed passing and catching
- Strategic use of backward passes in attack
- Team communication during competitive play
Next Steps
- Advanced passing combinations
- Creating overlaps using backward passes
- Defensive strategies against back passing
- Match play with full rules
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Hip rotation is the fundamental technique - feet stay facing forward while hips twist to pass backwards
- Two-handed passing and catching should be maintained throughout all activities for accuracy and safety
- Communication is essential in competitive games - encourage calling for passes and supporting teammates
- Backward passes create strategic attacking opportunities by keeping the ball alive and finding space
- Fair play and sportsmanship must be modelled and reinforced, especially during competitive elements
- Progressive skill development from static practice to dynamic game application builds confidence
- Encourage risk-taking with skills while maintaining safety awareness throughout activities
Common Misconceptions
- Students often turn their whole body instead of rotating at the hips - repeatedly demonstrate and practice the isolation of hip movement
- Many believe backward passes are 'wrong' in rugby - explain that unlike other sports, backward passes are legal and strategic
- Some students think faster is always better - emphasise that controlled, accurate passes are more effective than rushed attempts
- Children may assume only forward movement creates attacking opportunities - show how backward passes can create space and options
- Students might focus only on the pass without considering receiver positioning - develop awareness of support player positioning
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments with clear endpoints, provide additional movement opportunities, use clear visual and auditory signals
dyspraxia
- Use larger, lighter balls initially, reduce complexity of movements, allow extra practice time, provide step-by-step movement demonstrations
autism spectrum
- Provide clear, consistent routines for activities, visual schedule of lesson progression, quiet zone available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, assign sighted buddy for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals and demonstrations, written instructions on display boards, ensure face-to-face communication for lip reading
physical disability
- Adapt to seated passing position, modify tag system with alternative markers, adjust playing area size for mobility needs
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Communication skills during games, listening to instructions and feedback, vocabulary development with rugby terminology
Science
Understanding forces in passing (direction and power), body systems during exercise, physics of ball flight and trajectory
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competition positively, showing empathy and support for others, developing resilience and determination
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between groups during skill practice, central position during demonstrations, circulate between game areas during competition
Observation Focus
Hip rotation technique maintenance, passing accuracy under pressure, teamwork and communication, safe physical contact during tagging
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with hip rotation concept, support during competitive game tensions, assist with unclear rule applications
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Exaggerate hip rotation technique for clarity, show sporting tag return behaviour, model positive encouragement and celebration
Verbal Cues
- •'Hip rotation, not body turn!'
- •'Two hands to two hands!'
- •'Pass within 3 seconds!'
- •'Great communication team!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m area with clear boundaries, multiple smaller game areas (15m x 20m each)
Surface Check
Dry, even surface with good grip, free from holes, stones or other hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all balls are properly inflated and in good condition
- •Ensure tag belts have secure fastenings and tags are properly attached
- •Verify cones and markers have no sharp edges or damage
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during circle activities and competitive games
- •Slips and falls during dynamic movement and direction changes
- •Overexertion during competitive games
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for all activities with adequate spacing
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic activities
- •Regular breaks and hydration opportunities during competitive games
- •Emphasis on controlled movement and fair play throughout
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all active areas during games
- •Monitor circle activities for appropriate spacing and safe movement
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration during competitive elements
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, apply appropriate first aid, seek additional support if needed