Lesson 2 - Tagging Technique and Application
Team Play & Territory
•Year 3
•Tag Rugby
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How can we use effective tagging to defend our territory and stop attackers from scoring?
Learning Objectives
- To understand and demonstrate the correct tagging technique
- To apply tagging skills in game situations to defend effectively
- To work collaboratively in attack and defence scenarios
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct tagging technique with proper form
- Students will understand when and why to tag during game play
- Students will show improved tactical awareness in invasion games
Equipment & Resources Required
Check all belts fit properly and tags are securely attached
Alternative: Velcro belts, fabric strips with clips
Ensure tags are bright colours for visibility
Alternative: Coloured ribbons, short fabric strips
Size 3 balls appropriate for Year 3 hands
Alternative: Foam rugby balls, oval-shaped bean bags
Different colours for boundaries and target areas
Alternative: Markers, bibs laid flat
For identifying teams and special roles
Alternative: Coloured bands, temporary team markers
Key Vocabulary
Removing a tag from the ball carrier's belt to stop their forward progress
The player currently holding the rugby ball who can be tagged
Player without the ball trying to prevent the opposition from scoring
Special belt worn around the waist with detachable tags on each hip
The area of the pitch that your team is defending or attacking
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling with two hands
- Understanding of 1,2,3,4 Pass sequence
- Basic movement patterns and spatial awareness
Current Skills
- Correct tagging technique and timing
- Understanding defensive roles and responsibilities
- Applying rules of tag rugby in game situations
Next Steps
- Advanced tagging strategies and positioning
- Team defensive formations
- Complex attacking patterns to avoid tags
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always use two hands when removing a tag from an opponent
- Hold the tag high above your head and call 'tag' clearly
- Stop immediately and stand still when your tag is removed
- Only the ball carrier can be tagged in tag rugby
- Return tags promptly and respectfully to maintain fair play
- Keep the ball secure with two hands to avoid drops
- Communicate with teammates to help avoid being tagged
Common Misconceptions
- Students thinking they can tag any player, not just the ball carrier - reinforce only ball carrier rule
- Believing they can continue moving after being tagged - emphasise immediate stop requirement
- Thinking rough tagging is acceptable - consistently model and demand gentle technique
- Assuming dropped balls have no consequences - clearly explain loss of possession rules
- Forgetting to call 'tag' when removing tags - make calling 'tag' part of every demonstration
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with clear breaks. Regular positive feedback. Clear, simple instructions repeated as needed.
dyspraxia
- Slower demonstrations with breaking down of movements. Larger targets and equipment. Extra practice time for skill development.
autism spectrum
- Clear routine and structure. Visual schedule of activities. Quiet zone available if needed. Consistent rules and expectations.
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured tags and balls. Provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations. Buddy system for safety.
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals and demonstrations. Ensure clear line of sight to teacher. Written rule cards available.
physical disability
- Seated tagging practice possible. Modify movement requirements. Use larger, easier to handle equipment.
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Listening to instructions, following rules, communicating effectively with teammates
Maths
Counting successful tags, measuring distances for activities, recording scores and statistics
Science
Understanding forces in tag removal, friction on different surfaces, heart rate changes during activity
PSHE
Cooperation and teamwork, respecting others, managing competitive emotions, celebrating success
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at corner of activity area for visibility of all students. Move around groups during activities.
Observation Focus
Watch for correct tagging technique, immediate stopping when tagged, and safe movement patterns.
Intervention Points
Step in if tagging becomes too rough, if students don't follow rules, or if anyone appears unsafe or excluded.
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate with willing student volunteer. Exaggerate movements for visibility. Repeat demonstrations as needed.
Verbal Cues
- •'Gentle tags only!'
- •'Freeze when tagged!'
- •'Two hands for tagging!'
- •'Hold that tag up high!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 30m area, clear of obstacles and with safe boundaries
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from holes, debris or slippery areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Tag belts properly fitted - not too tight or loose
- •Tags securely attached but easily removable
- •Rugby balls age-appropriate size and properly inflated
- •Cones placed safely away from high activity areas
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during tagging
- •Trips and falls during running activities
- •Over-enthusiastic tagging causing discomfort
- •Students running outside designated areas
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established and reinforced regularly
- •Emphasis on gentle tagging technique throughout
- •Adequate spacing between activities and groups
- •Stop signal practiced and understood by all
- •Regular checks on tag belt security and comfort
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all students
- •Monitor tagging intensity to ensure it remains gentle
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration
- •Ensure equal participation and positive interactions
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately on safety signal. Assess any incidents calmly. Apply appropriate first aid or seek additional support as needed.