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Lesson 6 - Defensive Systems

Teamwork & Tactics

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Year 5

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Flag Football

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Big Question

How can different defensive systems help us win games and what makes a successful team strategy?

Learning Objectives

To understand and apply man-to-man and zonal defensive systems
To work collaboratively to develop and implement defensive strategies
To demonstrate knowledge of flag football rules and pitch markings

Key Outcomes

Students will execute both defensive systems with increasing accuracy
Students will communicate effectively to coordinate team defence
Students will apply tactical knowledge in competitive game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Belts

2 per student (60 total)

Distributed before warm-up, spare belts available courtside

Alternative: Coloured bibs tucked into waistbands

Flag Footballs

6-8 balls

Stored in equipment bag at centre of area

Alternative: Soft-touch rugby balls or foam footballs

Coloured Cones

20 cones (5 each of 4 colours)

Used for pitch markings and assessment zones

Alternative: Marker discs or sports spots

Coloured Bibs

15 of each colour (2 sets)

One set per team for clear identification

Alternative: Different coloured flag belts for team identification

Digital Cameras

Positioned for clear view of defensive actions

Alternative: Smartphone with good camera

Key Vocabulary

Man-to-man defence

A defensive strategy where each defender is assigned to guard a specific opponent

Zonal defence

A defensive strategy where defenders are responsible for a specific area of the pitch

Line of scrimmage

The imaginary line where the play begins, separating offensive and defensive teams

Down

An attempt by the offensive team to advance the ball forward

Interception

When the defending team catches a pass intended for the attacking team

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic flag pulling techniques
Understanding of attacking plays
Simple defensive positioning

Current Skills

Man-to-man defensive marking
Zonal defensive systems
Tactical communication and teamwork

Next Steps

Advanced defensive formations
Reading and reacting to offensive plays
Leadership in competitive situations

Milestone Indicators

Maintains defensive position for full play

Communicates clearly with teammates during action

Switches between defensive systems based on situation

Key Teaching Points

Man-to-man defence requires constant awareness of assigned player while watching the ball
Zonal defence demands communication and trust between adjacent defenders
Tactical decisions should be based on team strengths and opponent weaknesses
The line of scrimmage is fundamental to understanding game flow and positioning
Defensive success comes from teamwork and anticipation, not just individual skill
Good sportsmanship is essential even in competitive pressure situations
Video analysis helps students understand and improve their tactical awareness

Common Misconceptions

Thinking man-to-man means always staying within touching distance (should maintain strategic space)
Believing zonal defence means staying completely stationary (zones require dynamic coverage)
Assuming one defensive system is always better (effectiveness depends on situation and players)
Focusing only on the ball carrier (defenders must watch multiple threats simultaneously)
Thinking defence is just about stopping scores (good defence creates attacking opportunities too)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear role definitions, regular positive feedback, movement-based learning opportunities

dyspraxia

Simplified defensive movements, extra practice time, visual cues for positioning, partner support for complex skills

autism spectrum

Clear structure with visual schedule, predictable routines, quiet zones available, simplified communication strategies

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of zone boundaries, buddy system for spatial awareness, audio cues for game progress

hearing impairment

Visual signals for play changes, written tactical boards, hand signals for communication, visual demonstration of concepts

physical disability

Modified roles such as tactical advisor or referee, seated positions for zone coverage, adapted equipment for easier handling

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Spatial awareness and geometry in zone coverage, counting downs and scoring systems, data collection from game statistics

Science

Forces and motion in defensive movements, reaction times and anticipation, biomechanics of efficient movement

Geography

Spatial concepts and area coverage, mapping defensive zones, understanding territories and boundaries

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration, leadership skills, decision-making under pressure, respect and fair play

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during practice, central position during game play for optimal supervision

Observation Focus

Defensive positioning, communication quality, tactical decision-making, and safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in for safety concerns, provide tactical guidance during natural breaks, encourage positive communication

Demonstration Notes

Use students to demonstrate concepts, show clear contrasts between systems, model positive coaching language

Verbal Cues

•'Stay with your player!'
•'Cover your zone!'
•'Quick huddle - decide your strategy!'
•'Great communication!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Sports hall or outdoor area minimum 30m x 20m with clear run-off zones

Surface Check

Even, non-slip surface free from debris, appropriate footwear for surface type

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Flag belts properly fitted and not too tight
•Balls appropriate size and properly inflated
•Cones positioned safely away from collision zones

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during defensive plays
•Trips and falls when moving backwards in defence
•Overexertion during competitive games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and safe zones established
•Emphasis on controlled contact during flag pulling
•Regular hydration breaks and intensity monitoring
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic situations

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all defensive actions
•Monitor intensity levels during competitive play
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration

Emergency Procedures

Stop play immediately for any injury, first aid kit accessible, emergency contact procedures known