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Lesson 2 - Accurate Passing and Catching

Skills to Team Mastery

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Year 5

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Tag Rugby

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1h 7min

Big Question

How can we use accurate passing and catching to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities in tag rugby?

Learning Objectives

To throw a tag rugby ball accurately using correct technique
To catch a tag rugby ball with control under pressure
To move into space effectively to support team play

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate swing pass technique with hands positioned correctly on the ball
Students will catch the ball consistently using proper hand positioning and body control
Students will show improved spatial awareness and movement to support teammates

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Use for marking boundaries and target areas throughout lesson

Alternative: Markers, bibs, or chalk lines for boundaries

Rugby Balls

15 (1 per 2 students)

Ensure balls are properly inflated and suitable for age group

Alternative: American footballs or oval-shaped foam balls

Team bibs

16 (2 different colours)

Use to distinguish teams during game activities

Alternative: Coloured bibs or bandanas

Key Vocabulary

Swing pass

A passing technique where arms swing like a pendulum to propel the ball sideways

Long sides

The lengthwise edges of the rugby ball where hands should be placed for grip

Space

Empty areas on the field where players can move to receive passes or avoid opponents

Support

Moving to positions where teammates can pass the ball safely

Pressure

When opponents are close and trying to intercept or tag the ball carrier

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills with round balls
Understanding of personal space and movement
Simple throwing and catching techniques

Current Skills

Correct grip and hold of rugby ball
Swing pass technique development
Catching under pressure
Movement into space for support

Next Steps

Passing while running at speed
Tactical decision making in games
Defensive positioning and interception

Milestone Indicators

Consistent ball control during handling activities

Accurate passes over 6-8 metre distances

Effective movement patterns in game situations

Key Teaching Points

Hold rugby ball on the long sides with hands positioned in W shape
Stand sideways to target when passing for better accuracy and power
Use pendulum arm swing motion for consistent and controlled ball release
Receivers must actively reach out to meet the ball rather than wait for it
Cannot move feet when holding the ball during game situations
Quality technique is more important than speed - accuracy builds confidence
Communication and teamwork are essential for successful tag rugby play

Common Misconceptions

Thinking rugby ball behaves like a round ball - explain unpredictable bounce due to oval shape
Believing they can hold the ball anywhere - emphasise long sides grip for control
Expecting to pass immediately with power - explain need for technique development first
Thinking they can move while holding ball in games - clarify stationary rule for fairness
Assuming catching is passive - teach active hands-out approach
Believing individual skill is most important - emphasise teamwork and support play

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear physical boundaries, use movement breaks between skill practice

dyspraxia

Use larger, easier-to-grip balls, reduce complexity of movements initially, provide extra practice time and support

autism spectrum

Provide clear structured routines, visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet zone available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal cues for spatial positioning, assign sighted buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written technique reminders on display

physical disability

Adapt to seated position if needed, use lighter/softer balls, modify throwing distance and technique as required

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring passing distances, counting consecutive passes, calculating team scores and success rates

Science

Understanding forces in ball flight, trajectory and momentum in passing, muscle groups used in throwing

Geography

Spatial awareness and direction, understanding of areas and boundaries, mapping movement patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, respecting others and fair play

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move constantly between groups to provide individual feedback and ensure safety

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique development, safe play, and positive team interaction

Intervention Points

Step in when technique significantly breaks down, safety rules are ignored, or students become frustrated

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for technique demonstrations, involve confident students as models

Verbal Cues

•'Pendulum arms!' for swing pass reminder
•'W hands!' for grip reminder
•'Sideways stance!' for body position
•'Meet the ball!' for catching technique

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 30m clear area for full class activities

Surface Check

Level, dry surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rugby balls are properly inflated but not over-inflated
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify team bands are in good condition

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during movement activities
•Ball strikes to face or body
•Slips and falls during direction changes
•Overexertion during high-intensity activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and communicated
•Adequate spacing between groups maintained
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•No-contact rule enforced strictly
•Controlled ball pressure and throwing intensity

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students
•Monitor high-activity areas closely
•Intervene immediately for unsafe behaviour
•Regular head counts during transitions

Emergency Procedures

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