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Lesson 4 - Passing and Moving Forwards

Team Play & Territory

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Year 3

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Tag Rugby

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45 min

Big Question

How can we work together to move the ball forwards and score tries while understanding when and where to pass?

Learning Objectives

To develop accurate passing techniques using both hands
To understand positioning when moving forwards with the ball
To apply passing and moving skills in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate backwards passing in game situations
Students will show understanding of positioning when supporting ball carriers
Students will apply passing and moving tactics to score tries

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Belts

1 per student (30)

Pre-distributed around activity area perimeter

Alternative: Bandanas or cloth strips tied around waist

Key Vocabulary

Try

Scoring by placing the ball behind the opponent's goal line

Backwards pass

Passing the ball towards your own goal line, not forwards

Tag

Removing an opponent's tag belt to stop their progress

Support

Positioning yourself to help the ball carrier by offering passing options

Free pass

An uncontested pass awarded after being tagged

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic passing technique using both hands
Understanding of backwards passing rule
Experience of 2v1 attacking situations

Current Skills

Passing while moving forwards
Supporting positioning without the ball
Decision making when tagged

Next Steps

Passing under increased defensive pressure
Complex attacking patterns with multiple options
Advanced tagging and defensive strategies

Milestone Indicators

Consistent backwards passing while moving

Appropriate positioning to receive passes

Successful try scoring through team coordination

Key Teaching Points

Backwards passing is fundamental - reinforce constantly during activities
Support players must stay behind ball carrier to avoid forward pass
Gentle tagging only - focus on removing tag, not stopping player forcefully
Teamwork is more important than individual brilliance in tag rugby
Forward movement combined with backwards passing creates attacking opportunities
Free pass after tagging gives attacking team uncontested ball
Communication between teammates improves attacking success

Common Misconceptions

Thinking you can pass forwards if running backwards - passes must always go towards own goal line
Believing faster running always equals better attack - controlled movement with good passing is more effective
Assuming tagging should be forceful - gentle tag removal is safer and more skilful
Thinking individual play is better than teamwork - tag rugby requires excellent cooperation
Believing you can continue running after being tagged - must stop immediately and pass

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries, regular positive feedback, movement breaks as needed

dyspraxia

Larger, softer balls for easier handling, extra practice time, simplified movement patterns, patient encouragement

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, visual schedule of lesson stages, quiet zone available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and tags, provide verbal descriptions of all movements, assign sighted buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written rules card available

physical disability

Adapt to seated play if needed, use lighter balls, modify movement requirements, ensure full inclusion

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting tries and points, measuring distances for passing, understanding angles for backwards passes

Science

Understanding forces in passing, friction between feet and ground, body systems working harder during exercise

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness, understanding backwards and forwards in relation to own goal line

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, respecting rules and opponents, managing emotions during competitive play

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all groups, position centrally during demonstrations for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for passing technique, support positioning, fair play, and appropriate competitive spirit

Intervention Points

Step in if tagging becomes too aggressive, if rules are misunderstood, or if any student seems excluded

Demonstration Notes

Use students as demonstration partners when possible, exaggerate movements for clarity, always model positive language and fair play

Verbal Cues

•'Pass backwards only!'
•'Stay behind your teammate!'
•'Gentle tagging only!'
•'Work together as a team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m indoor hall or outdoor grass area, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for running and turning

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tag belts are secure but not too tight
•Ensure tags are properly attached and safe to pull
•Verify balls are properly inflated and in good condition
•Check cones have no sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during forward movement
•Aggressive tagging or pulling
•Slips and falls during direction changes
•Overexcitement leading to unsafe play

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained
•Emphasis on gentle tagging technique only
•Progressive skill building from walking to jogging
•Adequate spacing between groups during activities
•Regular reminders about safe play and respect

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all groups during 3v1 activities
•Monitor tagging technique throughout lesson
•Watch for overexcitement during competitive games
•Ensure fair play and appropriate intensity levels

Emergency Procedures

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