🏉

Lesson 3 - Tag Rugby Rules and Game Play

Tag Rugby Basics

•

Year 3

•

Tag Rugby

•

Big Question

How can we use tagging rules fairly to create exciting games where everyone can succeed?

Learning Objectives

To understand and apply the basic rules of tag rugby
To develop tagging and dodging skills in game situations
To work cooperatively within team games using fair play

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate understanding of tag rugby rules through game play
Students will show improved tagging technique and dodging skills
Students will play fairly and show respect for rules and opponents

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Rugby Equipment

1 per student (30)

Check all velcro attachments work properly before lesson

Alternative: Velcro belts with fabric strips, touch rugby bands

Rugby Balls

15 (1 between 2)

Use size 3 or 4 balls appropriate for Year 3 hands

Alternative: Foam rugby balls, oval footballs

Dish Cones

20-30

Mark try lines, start lines, and playing area boundaries

Alternative: Flat markers, rope lines, chalk lines

Key Vocabulary

Tag

To remove a velcro strip from an opponent's belt to stop their progress

Try

Scoring by placing the ball down with two hands past the try line

Dodge

Changing direction quickly to avoid being tagged

Three-tag rule

After three tags, possession changes to the other team

Tap restart

Starting play by tapping the ball with your foot

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running and chasing skills
Understanding of simple game rules
Ability to work with a partner

Current Skills

Tagging technique and rules
Dodging and evasion skills
Team game understanding

Next Steps

Passing skills in tag rugby
Advanced game tactics
Small-sided tag rugby matches

Milestone Indicators

Can tag cleanly without grabbing clothing

Returns tags immediately after tagging

Follows three-tag rule consistently

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise clean tagging technique - pull velcro strip only, no grabbing clothing
Reinforce safety rules - no pushing, spinning, or protecting tags
Practice proper try scoring - two hands placing ball down past line
Teach three-tag rule clearly - count out loud 'tag one, tag two, tag three'
Encourage quick tag returns - develop good sportsmanship habits
Focus on dodging techniques - side-step, change of pace, direction changes
Build understanding of possession changes after three tags

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Can protect tags with hands or body. Correction: Tags must remain visible and accessible at all times
Misconception: Tagging means grabbing clothing. Correction: Only pull the velcro tag strips cleanly
Misconception: Can keep running after being tagged. Correction: Must stop immediately and follow tag replacement procedure
Misconception: Try scored by just crossing line. Correction: Must place ball down with two hands past the line
Misconception: Can have unlimited tags. Correction: Three tags then possession changes to other team
Misconception: Can push or block opponents. Correction: No body contact allowed - dodging and speed only

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with regular changes, clear boundaries and rules, positive reinforcement for rule following

dyspraxia

Slower movements initially, extra practice time for belt fitting, simplified instructions broken into steps

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of activities, quiet area available if needed, consistent routines and expectations

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured tags and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual signals and demonstrations, written rule cards available, ensure student can see teacher's face

physical disability

Modify to walking tag rugby, allow seated participation where appropriate, adjust distances and areas

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting tags (1, 2, 3), measuring distances for games, timing activities, calculating scores

Science

Forces and motion during running and dodging, friction between velcro strips, acceleration and deceleration

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, direction and movement, using area boundaries effectively

PSHE

Fair play and rules, cooperation and teamwork, respect for others, managing emotions in competitive situations

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of activities for maximum visibility, position near most challenging activities

Observation Focus

Watch for safe tagging technique, rule adherence, and positive cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe play, rule breaking, or exclusion of students

Demonstration Notes

Use students as positive examples whenever possible, exaggerate movements for clarity, ensure all can see demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Clean tag only - pull the velcro strip!'
•'Hold it high and shout TAG!'
•'Get close before you reach!'
•'Two hands for the try!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear area, preferably grass or all-weather surface

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or standing water

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all tag belt velcro attachments work properly
•Ensure rugby balls are correctly inflated and undamaged
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during chasing activities
•Tripping over loose tags or equipment
•Rough play during tagging attempts

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and communicated
•Emphasis on clean tagging technique only
•No body contact rules strictly enforced
•Adequate spacing between activities
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe maximum number of students
•Move between activities to monitor technique
•Watch for signs of frustration or rough play
•Intervene immediately if rules broken

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess any injuries, apply appropriate first aid, contact school emergency procedures if required