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Lesson 4 - Attacking Patterns

Teamwork & Tactics

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Year 5

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Flag Football

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Big Question

How can we use patterns of movement and communication to create attacking opportunities in Flag Football?

Learning Objectives

To develop overarm throwing accuracy and technique
To understand and execute hook and slant running patterns
To work effectively alongside and against others when attacking and defending

Key Outcomes

Students will throw overarm with improved accuracy using correct technique
Students will demonstrate understanding of attacking patterns through hook and slant runs
Students will communicate effectively with teammates during attacking and defensive phases

Equipment & Resources Required

Flag Footballs

12 (3 per group for activities)

Pre-distributed around activity area, ensure all have 2 flags attached

Alternative: Tag rugby belts, bandanas tied around waist

Large Target Ball

Place in centre of square formation for Strike It activity

Alternative: Medicine ball, large playground ball

Cones

Mark boundaries, running patterns, and field positions

Alternative: Markers, spots, chalk lines

Bibs

15 (for team identification)

Ensure clear colour contrast for team identification

Alternative: Different coloured bands, team markers

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the ball is released above shoulder height with arm extended

Hook run

An attacking pattern where the receiver runs forward then turns back towards the quarterback

Slant run

An attacking pattern where the receiver runs forward then cuts diagonally at 45 degrees

Quarterback

The player responsible for throwing the ball to receivers during attacking plays

Wide receiver

Players who run patterns to receive passes from the quarterback

Line of scrimmage

The imaginary line where each play begins, marking the position of the ball

Down

One of the attempts a team has to advance the ball towards the touchdown zone

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic overarm throwing technique
Understanding of Flag Football basic rules
Experience working in teams during invasion games

Current Skills

Accurate overarm throwing to targets
Executing specific running patterns (hook and slant)
Communicating effectively during attacking and defensive phases

Next Steps

Combining multiple running patterns in game situations
Advanced quarterback decision-making
Complex defensive strategies and communication

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accuracy in overarm throws from 10m distance

Clear execution of hook and slant patterns with sharp direction changes

Effective verbal and non-verbal communication during gameplay

Key Teaching Points

Overarm throwing requires sideways stance, step forward with opposite foot, and follow through towards target
Hook runs need fast initial forward movement followed by sharp 180-degree turn back towards quarterback
Slant patterns require straight forward run then sharp 45-degree diagonal cut towards centre
Team communication before each play is essential for successful pattern execution
Safety in flag pulling - clean pulls only, no physical contact beyond flag removal
Understanding field position and down system helps tactical decision-making
Quality of movement and technique is more important than speed of execution

Common Misconceptions

Thinking you need to run as fast as possible without control - emphasise controlled, sharp movements
Believing patterns must be run exactly the same every time - adapt to game situations
Assuming the quarterback should throw immediately - timing and communication are key
Missing the importance of non-throwing arm in accuracy - whole body coordination needed
Focusing only on individual skill rather than team success - emphasise collective goals

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, regular movement breaks, clear boundaries and expectations, positive reinforcement frequently

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time for coordination, larger equipment for easier handling, step-by-step instruction breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear, structured routines for each activity, visual schedule of lesson progression, quiet zones available if needed, consistent language and cues

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of all actions, buddy system for guidance, audio cues for direction changes

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards, clear visual cues for game rules

physical disability

Modified running patterns with shorter distances, seated throwing options, adapted equipment size, adjusted game rules for participation

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills, listening and responding, following complex instructions, team discussion and reflection

Maths

Calculating angles for slant runs (45 degrees), measuring distances for down system, counting scores and statistics

Science

Forces in throwing - trajectory and accuracy, body mechanics during direction changes, physics of ball flight

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness, mapping field positions, understanding of grid references on field

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, leadership roles, emotional regulation during competition

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during activities, position at corner during games for full field view

Observation Focus

Watch for correct overarm technique, sharp direction changes in patterns, effective team communication

Intervention Points

Step in if unsafe play, poor technique needs correction, or team communication breaks down

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate all techniques clearly, use students as examples when appropriate, ensure all can see demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Sideways stance for throwing!'
•'Sharp direction change!'
•'Communicate with your quarterback!'
•'Use your patterns!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor space or full sports hall for multiple activities

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for running and direction changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check flag belts are adjustable and not too tight
•Ensure flag footballs are properly inflated and suitable for age group
•Confirm cones have no sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during direction changes
•Falls during rapid direction changes
•Inappropriate flag pulling technique

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established with adequate space between groups
•Progressive skill building from individual to game application
•Emphasis on controlled movements and safe flag pulling
•Proper warm-up to prepare for direction changes

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all activity areas
•Monitor high-activity areas during game application
•Watch for safe execution of running patterns

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, follow school emergency protocols