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Lesson 6 - Back Passing and Game Application

Evasion to Strategy

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Year 3

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Tag Rugby

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Big Question

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

Rugby Balls

1 per 6 students (5 balls)

Placed in central equipment area for easy access

Alternative: Soft rugby balls, foam footballs

Tag Belts

1 belt and 2 tags per student (30 sets)

Pre-distributed in team colours if available

Alternative: Velcro strips, flag belts

Markers Cones

20 cones

Mark 4-5 playing areas with clear try lines

Alternative: Spot markers, rope boundaries

Bibs

15 sets (3 colours)

Distinguish attackers and defenders clearly

Alternative: Coloured bands, team pennants

Stopwatch

For timing game rotations and activities

Alternative: Phone timer, visible clock

Key Vocabulary

Backward Pass

A pass that travels towards your own try line, which is legal in rugby

Hip Rotation

Turning at the waist to pass behind while keeping feet facing forward

Ball Carrier

The player currently holding the ball who can be tagged

Support Player

Teammates who position themselves to receive a pass

Try Line

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

Consistent hip rotation without turning body

Accurate passes to moving targets

Successful tries scored using backward passes

Clear communication heard throughout gameplay

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