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Lesson 5 - Attacking Lines & Talk

Technical to Tactical

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Year 5

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Tag Rugby

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1h 5min

Big Question

How can staggered attacking lines and effective communication help us break through defensive lines in tag rugby?

Learning Objectives

To attack using staggered line formations
To organise position to receive passes on the run
To communicate effectively during game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate staggered attacking formations
Students will show improved passing accuracy to moving targets
Students will communicate clearly with teammates during play

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Belts

2 per student (60 total)

Different colours for each team, spares available

Alternative: Coloured bibs with velcro strips

Rugby Balls

7 (size 3 or 4)

Check inflation levels before lesson

Alternative: Foam rugby balls for beginners

Dish Cones

20-25

Use for area boundaries and positioning guides

Alternative: Spot markers or other field markers

Video Device

1 (tablet/phone)

For filming assessment evidence

Alternative: Observation sheets for written notes

Key Vocabulary

Staggered Formation

An attacking line where players are positioned at different depths rather than in a straight line

Running onto a Pass

Timing your run to receive the ball while moving forward at pace

Play the Ball

The action of placing the ball on the ground and passing it backwards through your legs after being tagged

Tap Penalty

A method of restarting play by touching the ball with your foot

Communication

Clear verbal instructions and information sharing between teammates

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic tag rugby rules and 'playing the ball' technique
Simple passing and catching skills
Basic defensive positioning

Current Skills

Staggered line formations
Passing to moving targets
Communication during gameplay
Tap penalty execution

Next Steps

Advanced tactical plays
Complex passing combinations
Leadership in game situations

Milestone Indicators

Consistent staggered line formation

Accurate passing under pressure

Clear verbal communication throughout games

Key Teaching Points

Staggered formations create multiple attacking options and confuse defenders
Communication must be constant, clear, and supportive throughout gameplay
Running onto passes builds momentum and creates attacking advantage
Quick restarts after tags can catch defence unprepared
Playing the ball technique must be smooth and accurate for effective team play
Self-assessment and reflection are crucial for skill development
Balance of attainment and achievement recognition motivates all students

Common Misconceptions

That straight line formations are easier to defend against than staggered lines - explain tactical advantages clearly
That communication is only needed when you have the ball - emphasise constant team talk
That speed is more important than accuracy in passing - demonstrate controlled, accurate passing
That the 5-tag rule means you can be careless with possession - teach value of ball retention
That only the best players should make tactical decisions - encourage all students to think tactically

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short, focused activities with clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, specific roles and responsibilities

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for skills, simplified formation patterns, larger equipment options, step-by-step skill breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedules of activities, consistent routines, quiet areas available, advance warning of changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, verbal descriptions of formations, buddy system for guidance, audio cues for positioning

hearing impairment

Visual signals and demonstrations, written instruction cards, clear sight lines to teacher, peer support for communication

physical disability

Modified rules for wheelchair users, adapted equipment sizes, reduced area size, alternative roles like coaching

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills, giving clear instructions, listening and responding appropriately, vocabulary development

Maths

Calculating scores and statistics, measuring distances for formations, understanding angles and geometry in positioning

Science

Forces and motion in passing and running, physics of ball flight, understanding momentum and acceleration

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of field layouts and boundaries, directional movement

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, communication skills, resilience when facing challenges, fair play and respect

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the playing area to observe all groups, position at corner during game play for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for formation maintenance, communication quality, and application of skills under pressure

Intervention Points

Step in when safety is compromised, skills are breaking down, or students need tactical guidance

Demonstration Notes

Use students to model good examples, demonstrate formations clearly, show tactical concepts visually

Verbal Cues

•'Stagger those lines!'
•'Communicate with your teammates!'
•'Quick ball, quick ball!'
•'Run onto the pass!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Full sports hall or outdoor court minimum 40m x 20m, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Even, non-slip surface free from hazards, appropriate for running activities

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tag belts for secure velcro and no sharp edges
•Ensure rugby balls are properly inflated and in good condition
•Verify cones are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during running and passing
•Trips and falls during dynamic movements
•Over-competitive tagging leading to rough play

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and running lanes established
•Emphasis on controlled, safe tagging technique
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Regular safety reminders during activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Monitor high-activity areas during games
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration
•Ensure fair play and appropriate competition level

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, follow school protocols