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Lesson 2 - Running and Passing in Combination

Skills to Team Tactics

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Year 5

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Tag Rugby

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45 min

Big Question

How can combining running skills with accurate passing help us break through defences and create scoring opportunities?

Learning Objectives

To run and pass accurately and consistently while on the move
To identify when to run into space and when to pass into space
To work as a team to score tries using combined skills

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate consistent running and passing combinations
Students will make tactical decisions about when to run versus pass
Students will apply teamwork principles to score tries effectively

Equipment & Resources Required

Rugby Balls

8-10 (1 per group)

Distributed to group leaders at start of activities

Alternative: Foam balls, oval-shaped balls

Cones

40-50

Used to create boundaries, courses and target areas

Alternative: Spots, markers, bean bags

Coloured Bibs

15 (3 colours)

Different colours for team identification

Alternative: Bands, pinnies

Tag Belts

30 (1 per student)

Ensure all students have 2 tags attached before activities

Alternative: Touch rugby belts, fabric strips

Key Vocabulary

W Grip

Holding the ball with fingers spread in a W shape for secure control

Side-step

Quick sideways movement to avoid a defender

Passing Line

The imaginary line where the ball should be released to reach teammate

Eye Contact

Looking directly at the player you intend to pass to

Free Pass

Uncontested restart given when the ball is knocked forward

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling using W grip
Simple side-stepping movements
Understanding of backwards passing rule

Current Skills

Running with ball while maintaining control
Passing accurately while moving
Tactical decision-making in game situations

Next Steps

Advanced evasion techniques
Complex team attacking patterns
Defensive positioning and strategies

Milestone Indicators

Maintains ball control whilst running through obstacles

Passes reach teammate without bouncing

Makes correct run/pass decisions under pressure

Key Teaching Points

W grip is essential for ball security throughout all activities
Eyes up when running - students must see space and teammates
Pass early and in front of running teammates for success
Side-stepping requires quick direction changes whilst maintaining control
Teamwork beats individual brilliance in tag rugby games
Backwards passing rule must be consistently enforced
Decision-making between running and passing develops through practice

Common Misconceptions

Students think they should always run rather than pass - emphasise passing creates better opportunities
Belief that throwing harder makes passes more accurate - teach controlled, well-aimed passes
Assumption that forwards passing is allowed like in other sports - consistently reinforce rugby rules
Thinking tags can be pulled hard - demonstrate gentle tagging technique
Misconception that bigger students always win - highlight skill and teamwork advantages

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear physical boundaries, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement system, specific roles and responsibilities

dyspraxia

Larger, softer equipment options, extra practice time for motor skills, simplified movement patterns, step-by-step instruction breakdown, peer support system

autism spectrum

Clear, consistent routines, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available, advance warning of activity changes, structured social interactions

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for guidance, tactile boundary markers

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear hand signals, written instruction cards, ensure face-to-face communication, vibrating whistle for signals

physical disability

Seated passing versions, shorter distances for throws, modified tag systems, adapted balls for easier grip, inclusive team roles

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Forces in ball throwing, friction between feet and ground, acceleration and deceleration during running

Geography

Understanding space and spatial relationships, directions and movement patterns across playing areas

PSHE

Teamwork skills, resilience when facing challenges, respect for rules and others, managing competitive emotions

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter during activities, central position for demonstrations and games

Observation Focus

Watch for technique, safety, engagement, and skill application under pressure

Intervention Points

Step in when safety is compromised, technique needs correction, or students need encouragement

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility, involve students in demonstrations, repeat key points

Verbal Cues

•'W grip - spread those fingers!'
•'Head up, see the space!'
•'Pass early to help your teammate!'
•'Work together as a team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 20m outdoor area or large indoor hall, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris or wet patches

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rugby balls are properly inflated and not damaged
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify tags are secure but not too tight
•Check bibs are clean and not torn

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during games
•Slips and falls on wet or uneven surfaces
•Tag-related injuries from pulling too hard
•Ball strikes to face or body

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established with adequate run-off areas
•Appropriate spacing maintained between activities
•Progressive skill building before game application
•Continuous supervision with teacher positioned for maximum visibility
•Tag return rule enforced to prevent pulling injuries

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during activities
•Move between groups during skill development
•Central position during games for optimal refereeing
•Monitor high-activity areas more closely

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, apply appropriate first aid, arrange additional support if needed