Lesson 4 - Passing and Moving Forwards
Team Play & Territory
•Year 3
•Tag Rugby
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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
Pre-distributed around activity area perimeter
Alternative: Bandanas or cloth strips tied around waist
Attached to belts before lesson start
Alternative: Velcro strips or fabric tags
Stored in equipment bag at side of area
Alternative: Foam balls or size 3 footballs
Mark try lines and boundaries
Alternative: Markers or bibs
To identify different teams during activities
Alternative: Bandanas or coloured bands
Key Vocabulary
Scoring by placing the ball behind the opponent's goal line
Passing the ball towards your own goal line, not forwards
Removing an opponent's tag belt to stop their progress
Positioning yourself to help the ball carrier by offering passing options
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
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