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Lesson 4 - Defending as a Team

Team Coordination

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Year 5

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Tag Rugby

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Big Question

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

Tag Belts

1 per student (30)

Ensure tags are securely attached and easily removable

Alternative: Bibs tucked into shorts, strips of fabric

Rugby Balls

1 per group of 10 (3 balls)

Use size 3 or 4 rugby balls appropriate for Year 5

Alternative: Foam balls, size 3 footballs

Cones

20-30

Mark try lines, boundaries, and offside lines clearly

Alternative: Spot markers, chalk lines

Bibs

15 (for team identification)

Different colours for attacking and defending teams

Alternative: Coloured t-shirts, arm bands

Key Vocabulary

Tagging

Removing a tag belt from an opponent to stop their forward progress

Offside

Being positioned ahead of the ball when not allowed to participate in play

Defensive Line

A line of defenders positioned to prevent attackers from advancing

Free Pass

A restart given to the attacking team when they are tagged

Try Line

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

Consistent successful tags with correct technique

Quick formation of defensive lines after tags

Effective communication during defensive phases

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