Lesson 6 - Defensive Systems
Teamwork & Tactics
•Year 5
•Flag Football
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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
Distributed before warm-up, spare belts available courtside
Alternative: Coloured bibs tucked into waistbands
Stored in equipment bag at centre of area
Alternative: Soft-touch rugby balls or foam footballs
Used for pitch markings and assessment zones
Alternative: Marker discs or sports spots
One set per team for clear identification
Alternative: Different coloured flag belts for team identification
Positioned for clear view of defensive actions
Alternative: Smartphone with good camera
Key Vocabulary
A defensive strategy where each defender is assigned to guard a specific opponent
A defensive strategy where defenders are responsible for a specific area of the pitch
The imaginary line where the play begins, separating offensive and defensive teams
An attempt by the offensive team to advance the ball forward
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
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