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Lesson 5 - Running Lines and Game Application

Strategic Movement & Communication

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Year 4

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Flag Football

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45 min

Big Question

How can effective communication and precise running lines transform our flag football game?

Learning Objectives

Develop the ability to run different types of lines and receive a ball whilst on the run
Apply flag football skills in a modified game situation with tactical awareness
Demonstrate effective communication and active listening during team activities

Key Outcomes

Students will execute straight line runs with appropriate timing and ball reception
Students will participate effectively in 5-a-side flag football games using tactical communication
Students will demonstrate improved coordination between quarterback and running back positions

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Belts

1 per student (30)

Check belts are properly attached and flags are secure

Alternative: Tag rugby belts, fabric strips tied around waist

Soft Dodgeballs

6-8

Ensure balls are appropriate size for Year 4 students

Alternative: Rugby balls, foam balls for beginners

Cones

20-30

Use to mark boundaries, lines of scrimmage, and target areas

Alternative: Markers, spots, bibs as markers

Measuring Tapes

For accurate 5m and halfway line measurements

Alternative: Metre sticks, paced distances

Key Vocabulary

Straight Line Run

A running pattern where the receiver runs directly forward to receive a pass

Line of Scrimmage

The imaginary line where each play begins, separating the two teams

Down

An attempt by the offensive team to advance the ball towards the touchdown line

Snap

The action that starts each play, where the ball is handed to the quarterback

Running Back

The player who receives the ball from the quarterback and runs forward

Quarterback

The player who receives the snap and decides whether to pass or hand off the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and throwing techniques
Understanding of tag/flag belt rules and safety
Simple running and dodging movements
Basic teamwork and communication skills

Current Skills

Straight line running with ball reception
Quarterback to running back coordination
Tactical communication in game situations
Understanding of downs, snaps, and line of scrimmage

Next Steps

Advanced running patterns (slants, posts, outs)
Defensive strategies and positioning
Complex tactical plays and formations
Full game application with conversions

Milestone Indicators

Smooth catch without breaking stride

Accurate quarterback passing in front of runner

Clear tactical communication between plays

Understanding and application of game rules

Key Teaching Points

Straight line running requires consistent pace and looking back over shoulder for ball reception
Quarterback must lead the runner with passes, throwing to where they will be rather than where they are
Effective communication between plays is crucial for tactical success in flag football
Line of scrimmage concept is fundamental to understanding game structure and positioning
Clean flag pulling technique ensures safety while maintaining competitive game flow
Team roles (quarterback, running back, receivers) require understanding of specific responsibilities
Self-assessment and reflection help students identify areas for improvement and celebrate progress

Common Misconceptions

Thinking the quarterback should throw directly at the running back rather than leading them
Believing that faster running always leads to better ball reception (timing is more important)
Assuming that loudest communication is most effective (clarity and listening are key)
Misunderstanding that flag pulling should be gentle (needs to be firm but safe)
Thinking all players can go anywhere on the pitch (positions have specific roles and areas)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, provide regular feedback and encouragement, assign specific roles and responsibilities

dyspraxia

Break down skills into smaller steps, use larger equipment for easier handling, provide extra practice time and support

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, use visual schedules for game progression, offer quiet space for breaks if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and flag belts, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, assign sighted partner for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and hand gestures, provide written rule summaries, ensure clear sight lines for lip reading

physical disability

Modify running distances, allow seated positions for tactical discussions, adapt flag belt placement for accessibility

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills, listening and speaking during tactical discussions, vocabulary development

Maths

Measuring distances for game boundaries, counting downs and scores, calculating team statistics

Science

Forces and motion in throwing and catching, understanding trajectory and accuracy

Geography

Spatial awareness, understanding of boundaries and territories, mapping movement patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, respect for rules and fair play, building confidence and resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter for visibility of all students, position at corner during games for optimal oversight

Observation Focus

Watch for safe flag pulling, communication quality, skill development progression, and inclusive participation

Intervention Points

Step in if unsafe play observed, support struggling students with technique, facilitate tactical discussions

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for skill demonstration, involve student volunteers to model good technique, freeze action at key teaching moments

Verbal Cues

•'Look over your shoulder for the ball!'
•'Throw where the runner will be, not where they are!'
•'Quick tactical talk before the next play!'
•'Clean flag pulling only - no body contact!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 30m outdoor area or large sports hall, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface suitable for running, free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check flag belts are in good condition with secure fastenings
•Ensure balls are appropriate size and condition for Year 4 students
•Verify cones are stable and have no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during running activities
•Trips and falls during direction changes
•Flag belt entanglement or unsafe pulling

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and running lanes established with cones
•Emphasis on flag pulling only - no body contact
•Adequate spacing between pairs during practice
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students during activities
•Monitor flag pulling technique to ensure safety
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Ensure fair play and adherence to rules

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if required