Lesson 2 - Snapping and Tag Defence
Teamwork & Tactics
•Year 5
•Flag Football
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How can we use communication and teamwork to execute precise snaps and defend effectively in flag football?
Learning Objectives
- To perform basic and advanced centre-quarterback snaps with accuracy
- To grab opponents' tags consistently during defensive play
- To communicate effectively and listen to others during game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will execute centre-quarterback exchanges with increasing accuracy
- Students will demonstrate effective tag defence techniques
- Students will show clear communication and teamwork skills
Equipment & Resources Required
Check all tags are securely attached before activity
Alternative: Bibs tucked into shorts, velcro tags
Distribute around activity areas
Alternative: Size 3 rugby balls, foam footballs for beginners
Set up triangle formations and boundary lines
Alternative: Spots, chalk lines on playground
For setting 10m distances accurately
Alternative: Marked playground lines
Key Vocabulary
The action of passing the ball from centre to quarterback to start a play
The player who snaps the ball to start each play
The player who receives the snap and distributes the ball
The player who runs routes to catch passes from the quarterback
Removing an opponent's flag to stop their attacking play
Athletic stance with knees bent, on balls of feet, ready to move
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling skills
- Understanding of tagging rules in flag football
- Simple throwing and catching techniques
Current Skills
- Centre-quarterback snap technique
- Defensive positioning and tag grabbing
- Communication during team activities
Next Steps
- Complex offensive plays with multiple receivers
- Advanced defensive strategies and formations
- Game management and tactical decision making
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Centre-quarterback snap requires stable crouched position with wide leg stance
- Tag defence involves reading attacker movement and grabbing nearest accessible tag cleanly
- Communication in flag football includes calling plays, supporting teammates, and giving clear instructions
- Progressive skill development from basic handoff snaps to advanced aerial snaps
- Safety priority in all tagging activities - controlled technique over aggressive grabbing
- Self-assessment against specific criteria helps students understand their learning progress
- Video analysis supports both technique improvement and communication development
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking snapping is just throwing backwards - it requires specific technique and timing
- Believing tag defence is about speed only - positioning and reading movement are equally important
- Assuming communication means just talking loudly - effective communication includes listening and clarity
- Thinking one successful attempt means mastery - consistency is the key measure of skill development
- Believing physical size determines success - technique and tactics are more important than strength
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with frequent changes, clear physical boundaries, regular positive feedback and movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time with individual support
autism spectrum
- Provide clear activity sequences, offer quiet observation zones, use consistent verbal cues and routines
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all actions, implement buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Adapt snap distances, allow seated or supported positions, modify tag grabbing to gentle touching
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Clear verbal communication, listening skills, following and giving instructions accurately
Maths
Calculating snap distances, measuring 10m spacing, counting successful attempts in sequence
Science
Forces in throwing and catching, trajectory and angles in snap technique, reaction times in defence
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when techniques don't work, supporting others' learning
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at corner of activity area for visibility of all groups during practice
Observation Focus
Watch for snap accuracy, defensive positioning, and positive communication
Intervention Points
Step in if technique becomes unsafe or students struggle with communication
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Exaggerate key technical points, show timing clearly, model positive communication
Verbal Cues
- •'Snap with a flick!'
- •'Ready position - knees bent!'
- •'Grab cleanly - one tag only!'
- •'Communicate clearly with teammates!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m, clear of obstacles with defined boundaries
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, no dangerous debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •All tag belts checked for secure attachment before activities
- •Balls inflated correctly and in good condition
- •Cones placed safely without trip hazards
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during running activities
- •Rough tag grabbing or pulling
- •Equipment-related trips or falls
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and running lanes established
- •Emphasis on controlled tag grabbing technique
- •Regular equipment checks throughout lesson
- •Progressive skill building from basic to advanced
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during tag activities
- •Monitor group spacing and boundary awareness
- •Ensure proper technique demonstration before activities
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or seek additional support