Lesson 4 - Defending as a Team
Team Coordination
•Year 5
•Tag Rugby
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How can we work together as a defensive team to prevent attackers from scoring while applying the rules of tag rugby?
Learning Objectives
- To refine understanding of how to defend effectively in tag rugby
- To understand the importance of teamwork when defending and reducing space
- To apply correct tagging technique and offside rules in game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate correct tagging technique with proper body positioning
- Students will work collaboratively as a defensive unit to prevent scoring opportunities
- Students will understand and apply offside rules and defensive formations
Equipment & Resources Required
Ensure tags are securely attached and easily removable
Alternative: Bibs tucked into shorts, strips of fabric
Use size 3 or 4 rugby balls appropriate for Year 5
Alternative: Foam balls, size 3 footballs
Mark try lines, boundaries, and offside lines clearly
Alternative: Spot markers, chalk lines
Different colours for attacking and defending teams
Alternative: Coloured t-shirts, arm bands
Key Vocabulary
Removing a tag belt from an opponent to stop their forward progress
Being positioned ahead of the ball when not allowed to participate in play
A line of defenders positioned to prevent attackers from advancing
A restart given to the attacking team when they are tagged
The line that attackers must cross to score points
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic tagging technique from previous units
- Understanding of attack vs defence concepts
- Basic rules of tag rugby including try scoring
Current Skills
- Refined tagging technique with body positioning
- Team defensive formations and communication
- Understanding and application of offside rules
Next Steps
- Advanced defensive strategies and counter-attacking
- Leadership roles in organising team defence
- Transition between attack and defence phases
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Safe tagging technique using both hands at waist level from side approach
- Offside rule application - all defenders must step back behind ball after each tag
- Defensive line formation with good spacing across the field width
- Communication between defenders to organise team defence effectively
- Quick reformation of defensive positions after tags are made
- Using numerical advantage when defending with extra players
- Understanding roles and responsibilities within the defensive team structure
Common Misconceptions
- That tagging should be done from directly in front - correct from side or behind
- That defenders can stay level with the ball after a tag - must step back behind
- That individual defending is better than team defending - emphasise teamwork benefits
- That the offside rule is unfair - explain how it organises both teams effectively
- That communication isn't necessary - show how it improves team performance
- That being aggressive makes better defence - emphasise controlled, technical approach
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, regular positive feedback, movement breaks built in, clear role definitions
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for tagging technique, simplified movement patterns, larger target areas, patient skill development approach
autism spectrum
- Clear, consistent routines for each activity, visual schedule of lesson progression, quiet zone available if needed, structured peer interactions
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured equipment, clear verbal descriptions of positioning, buddy system for navigation, tactile boundary markers
hearing impairment
- Visual signals for game start/stop, demonstration-heavy teaching, written rules available, peer communication support
physical disability
- Modified tagging using alternative methods (touch shoulder), seated referee roles, adapted field size, focus on tactical understanding
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary, giving clear instructions, listening skills, explaining rules and tactics
Maths
Counting players, measuring distances for offside rule, angles of defensive positioning, timing and scoring
Science
Forces in tagging, momentum and stopping power, energy transfer, body systems during exercise
Geography
Spatial awareness, field positioning, directions and movements, mapping game strategies
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills, managing emotions under pressure, conflict resolution
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Position at corner of area to maintain sight lines of all activities, move between groups during games
Observation Focus
Watch for correct tagging technique, team communication, rule compliance, and safety
Intervention Points
Step in when safety is compromised, rules are misunderstood, or students need technique correction
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate with clear, slow movements first, then at game speed. Use students to help demonstrate when appropriate.
Verbal Cues
- •'Safe tagging from the side!'
- •'Step back behind the ball!'
- •'Talk to your team!'
- •'Use your extra defender!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear area with additional 2m safety zone around perimeter
Surface Check
Level grass or sports hall surface, free from holes, debris, and water
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check tag belts are properly secured and tags are not torn
- •Ensure rugby balls are properly inflated and in good condition
- •Verify cones are stable and have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Check bibs are appropriate size and not damaged
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during tagging attempts
- •Falls when changing direction quickly
- •Over-aggressive tagging leading to contact
- •Fatigue affecting decision-making and safety
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise safe tagging technique from both sides only
- •Maintain adequate spacing between games/groups
- •Regular reminders about controlled movement and awareness
- •Progressive increase in game intensity
- •Clear boundaries to prevent collisions with obstacles
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all groups simultaneously during games
- •Move regularly to check technique and safety compliance
- •Monitor energy levels and intervene if students become over-excited
- •Watch for any signs of discomfort or injury
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact school office if required