Lesson 3 - Loop Passing to Outwit Defenders
Team Coordination
•Year 5
•Tag Rugby
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How can we use different passing techniques to create attacking opportunities and score tries in tag rugby?
Learning Objectives
- To learn and execute a loop pass to create attacking overlaps
- To understand when, where and why to use loop passes in game situations
- To apply loop passing effectively to outwit defenders and score tries
Key Outcomes
- Students will be able to perform a loop pass accurately with a partner
- Students will understand the tactical purpose of loop passing in tag rugby
- Students will apply loop passing successfully in competitive game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around practice area perimeter
Alternative: Foam rugby balls for beginners, size 3 balls for smaller hands
Different colours for teams, spare tags available
Alternative: Bibs tucked into shorts, velcro belts
Mark boundaries, zones, and try lines clearly
Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk lines
Clearly distinguish teams during games
Alternative: Different coloured tag belts
Key Vocabulary
A passing technique where the ball carrier passes to a teammate then runs behind them to receive a return pass
Having more attackers than defenders in a specific area of the pitch
A teammate positioned to receive a pass or provide an attacking option
Passing the ball just before being tagged to maintain possession
The line that players must cross with possession to score points
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic passing and catching skills
- Understanding of tag rugby rules
- Simple attacking and defensive concepts
- Basic movement and support play
Current Skills
- Loop passing technique execution
- Tactical understanding of when to use loop passes
- Creating attacking overlaps
- Advanced support play and communication
Next Steps
- Complex passing combinations (switch passes, dummy passes)
- Advanced attacking patterns and set plays
- Tactical decision-making under pressure
- Leadership in attack coordination
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Loop passing creates attacking overlaps by adding an extra player to the attacking line
- Timing is crucial - pass just before being tagged to maintain possession and momentum
- Communication between attackers is essential for successful loop passing execution
- Support players must maintain pace and position to receive the ball effectively
- Loop passes should only be used when tactical advantage can be gained
- Quality of basic passing and catching underpins all advanced techniques
- Reading defensive positioning determines when loop passing will be most effective
Common Misconceptions
- Loop passes should be used in every attacking situation - actually they're only effective when creating an overlap
- The ball carrier should stop after passing - they must continue moving to complete the loop
- Loop passes work best in tight spaces - they actually need width to be effective
- Only fast players can execute loop passes - technique and timing matter more than speed
- Loop passing is too advanced for Year 5 - with proper progression it's entirely achievable
- Defence can't stop loop passes - good defensive communication and positioning can neutralise them
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use movement breaks effectively
dyspraxia
- Allow extra practice time, use larger equipment, provide step-by-step visual guides, encourage rather than pressure
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, visual timetable of lesson stages, quiet area available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Modify to seated or supported versions, use larger/lighter balls, adjust distances and pace as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, clear communication and instruction-giving
Science
Forces in ball flight, momentum and acceleration in running, physics of collision and impact
Art
Movement patterns and flow, creativity in tactical solutions, visual awareness of space and design
Geography
Directional language, mapping movement patterns, understanding of space and positioning
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience in face of challenges, leadership and communication skills
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between groups during practice, central position during games for optimal visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for correct loop passing technique, tactical decision-making, and safe play
Intervention Points
Step in if technique breaks down, unsafe play occurs, or students become frustrated
Demonstration Notes
Use students to demonstrate good examples, freeze games to highlight teaching points, show common errors and corrections
Verbal Cues
- •'Pass and loop!'
- •'Read the defender!'
- •'Quick hands!'
- •'Support your teammate!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear area, preferably grass or artificial surface
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from stones, holes or other trip hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check rugby balls are properly inflated and in good condition
- •Ensure tag belts are secure but not overly tight
- •Cones positioned safely away from main activity areas
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between players during passing practice
- •Slips and falls on wet or uneven surfaces
- •Inappropriate contact during tagging
- •Ball strikes to head or body
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established and communicated
- •Adequate spacing maintained between groups
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
- •Regular monitoring of contact levels and game intensity
- •Clear rules about appropriate tagging technique
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all activity areas
- •Monitor high-intensity game situations closely
- •Intervene quickly if unsafe contact occurs
- •Ensure students follow equipment handling procedures
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students remain safe and supervised