Lesson 1 - Ball Handling Skills Development
Tag Rugby Basics
•Year 3
•Tag Rugby
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How does the unique shape of a rugby ball change the way we throw, catch and play with it?
Learning Objectives
- To develop ball handling skills demonstrating increasing control and accuracy
- To understand how the shape of a rugby ball affects movement and handling
- To work cooperatively in teams while practising fundamental rugby skills
Key Outcomes
- Students will be able to pass and receive a rugby ball with improved control
- Students will understand the 'W' grip technique for holding a rugby ball
- Students will demonstrate spatial awareness during movement activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Place balls around perimeter of area before lesson starts
Alternative: Size 3 rugby balls for smaller hands, foam rugby balls for safety
Use for boundaries, relay points, and group positioning
Alternative: Coloured discs, bean bags, or other markers
Different colours for each group of 4
Alternative: Coloured bands, wristbands
Key Vocabulary
An oval-shaped ball used in rugby, different from round balls
Holding the rugby ball with fingers spread wide on both long sides, forming a 'W' shape
Throwing the ball sideways or backwards to a teammate using correct technique
Scoring in rugby by placing the ball down in the opponent's area
Understanding where you are in relation to others and the space around you
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching with round balls
- Understanding of personal space and movement
- Experience working in small groups
Current Skills
- Rugby ball grip technique ('W' shape)
- Static passing and catching
- Moving with a rugby ball safely
Next Steps
- Passing while moving
- Introduction to basic tagging techniques
- Simple game situations
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- The W grip is fundamental - fingers wide on the long sides of the ball
- Passing technique uses pendulum arm motion from sideways-on stance
- Catching requires active movement to meet the ball, not passive waiting
- Rugby ball shape affects bounce and handling - emphasise this difference
- Teamwork and encouragement are as important as individual skill development
- Safety through controlled movements and spatial awareness
- Progressive challenge building from simple to complex skills
Common Misconceptions
- Holding rugby ball like a round ball - correct with W grip demonstration
- Facing forward when passing - emphasise sideways-on stance
- Rushing skills under pressure - promote 'quality over speed' mindset
- Passive catching - teach active 'meeting the ball' approach
- Throwing ball for try - demonstrate controlled placement action
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short, focused activities with regular movement breaks, clear boundaries and expectations, positive reinforcement
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier handling, extra practice time, simplified movement patterns, adult support
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available, consistent routines and expectations
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured rugby balls, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for activities
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for instructions, written activity cards
physical disability
- Seated versions of activities, modified equipment (larger/lighter balls), adapted distances and rules
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following complex instructions, using new vocabulary (W grip, pendulum, try), peer teaching communication
Maths
Counting passes in challenges, measuring 4m distances, timing activities in seconds and minutes
Science
Understanding forces in ball movement, air resistance affecting oval ball flight, grip friction
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, perseverance when learning new skills, celebrating others' success
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around groups during activities, position at corner for maximum visibility during games
Observation Focus
Watch for correct grip technique, safe movement patterns, and positive group dynamics
Intervention Points
Step in when technique needs correction, if safety issues arise, or if students need encouragement
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for clarity, demonstrate both correct and incorrect technique for comparison
Verbal Cues
- •'W grip - wide fingers!'
- •'Smooth pendulum swings!'
- •'Eyes on your target!'
- •'Meet the ball halfway!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 30m indoor hall or outdoor area, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, dry and even, free from hazards or debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Rugby balls correctly inflated but not over-inflated
- •Cones stable and free from sharp edges
- •Regular equipment checks for wear and damage
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to face or body
- •Collisions between students during movement
- •Slips and falls on inappropriate surface
- •Overexertion during competitive activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and spacing between groups
- •Emphasis on controlled movements throughout
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
- •Adequate rest periods between intense activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups
- •Pay special attention during competitive games
- •Monitor for signs of fatigue or frustration
- •Ensure equipment is used safely and appropriately
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, apply first aid if qualified, seek additional support as needed