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Lesson 2 - Ball Handling & Running

Attack & Decision Making

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Year 4

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Tag Rugby

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45 min

Big Question

How can I maintain possession of the ball while creating space and opportunities for my team?

Learning Objectives

To develop correct technique for picking up and carrying the ball using the 'W' grip
To use changes of speed and direction to create space and maintain possession
To apply ball handling skills in competitive game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate proper ball handling technique with the 'W' grip
Students will show ability to vary speed and direction when carrying the ball
Students will successfully apply skills in game scenarios to maintain possession

Equipment & Resources Required

Rugby Balls

1 per student (30)

Pre-positioned in central nest area

Alternative: Large foam balls, oval footballs for practice

Tag Belts

1 per student (30 sets)

Distributed to students before warm-up

Alternative: Coloured bands, flag belts

Cones

20-25

Different colours for different relay stations

Alternative: Markers, poly spots

Hoops

6-8

Placed as team nests around activity area

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles

Key Vocabulary

W grip

Holding the ball with thumbs and forefingers forming a 'W' shape for secure control

Possession

Having control of the ball for your team

Creating space

Moving into areas away from defenders to gain advantage

Leading leg

The leg you step forward with when picking up the ball

Knock on

When the ball is dropped or knocked forward (against the rules)

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running and movement skills
Understanding of personal space
Introduction to ball handling

Current Skills

Correct ball picking up technique
W grip for carrying
Speed variation for creating space

Next Steps

Passing while on the move
Reading defensive patterns
Advanced evasion techniques

Milestone Indicators

Consistent use of W grip

Effective speed changes

Successful ball retention under pressure

Key Teaching Points

Step over the ball with leading leg when picking up
Use W grip with thumbs down for secure ball control
Keep head up when running with the ball
Two-handed pickup and carrying for safety
Body position low when picking up ball from ground
Controlled ball placement, never dropping
Speed variation to create space and evade defenders

Common Misconceptions

Thinking you can only pick up ball from the front - teach stepping over
Believing faster is always better - emphasise control over speed
Assuming one hand is sufficient - stress two-handed technique for security
Thinking the W grip is optional - explain it prevents ball slipping
Believing looking at ball while running is necessary - teach heads up technique

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, regular positive feedback, movement breaks built into lesson

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter balls initially, extra practice time for skill development, simplified movement patterns

autism spectrum

Clear structured routines, visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, assign sighted buddy for support

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for game management, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Seated ball handling practice, modified pickup technique, adapted tag placement for wheelchair users

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following complex multi-step instructions, using technical vocabulary accurately, communication in team activities

Maths

Counting passes in game activities, measuring distances for relay races, geometry in field positioning

Science

Understanding forces when picking up and carrying objects, friction between feet and ground, cardiovascular system during exercise

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' achievements

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter for visibility, position centrally for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for W grip consistency, safe movement patterns, and positive interaction

Intervention Points

Step in if technique deteriorates, unsafe play occurs, or students become disengaged

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clarity, repeat key points multiple times, involve students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'W grip!'
•'Step over the ball!'
•'Heads up when running!'
•'Two hands for safety!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 25m outdoor space or large sports hall, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rugby balls are properly inflated and not damaged
•Ensure tag belts are adjustable and not too tight
•Verify cones are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during running activities
•Falls when picking up balls at speed
•Tag pulling injuries if belts too tight
•Ball strikes to face or body

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and safe movement patterns established
•Adequate spacing between students during all activities
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Emphasis on controlled movement over speed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Monitor high-activity areas like central ball collection
•Watch for fatigue affecting safe movement

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, contact emergency services if required