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Lesson 2 - Dynamic Passing Skills

Technical to Tactical

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Year 5

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Tag Rugby

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Big Question

How can we maintain accurate passing when moving at speed and under pressure from defenders?

Learning Objectives

Develop the ability to send and receive a ball accurately whilst on the run
Master passing techniques to both left and right using appropriate pocket positioning
Apply passing skills effectively under defensive pressure in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved accuracy when passing on the move
Students will show understanding of correct body positioning for left and right passes
Students will communicate effectively with teammates during game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rugby Balls

15 (1 per 2 students)

Distribute around activity area perimeter

Alternative: Footballs or large foam balls for support group

Tag Belts

30 sets (1 per student)

Different colours for team identification

Alternative: Coloured bibs tucked into shorts

Cones

Mark boundaries and target areas

Alternative: Spot markers or tennis balls

Small Balls

5 (tennis balls)

For extension activities

Alternative: Bean bags or small foam balls

Large Soft Balls

For support activities

Alternative: Foam footballs or beach balls

Key Vocabulary

Pocket passing

Passing the ball from the 'pocket' area at hip level with arms extended

W position

Hand position for catching with thumbs together forming a W shape

Rolling hands

Technique for catching balls at different heights by rotating wrists

Pop pass

Short, quick pass delivered at chest height using wrists

Target

Clear visual indicator for where to pass the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and catching skills
Understanding of tag rugby rules and safety
Simple stationary passing techniques

Current Skills

Passing accurately on the move
Using different pocket positions for directional passing
Applying passing skills under pressure

Next Steps

Advanced tactical passing in game situations
Long-range passing techniques
Decision-making in complex game scenarios

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accuracy in moving passes

Automatic use of correct pocket positioning

Effective communication during pressure situations

Key Teaching Points

Pocket passing requires stepping into the pass with arms extending toward target
Hand rolling technique is essential for catching balls at different heights
Body positioning changes for left and right passes - use appropriate pocket
Communication and teamwork are as important as individual skill development
Progressive challenge from stationary to moving to game application
Fair play and safety must be maintained throughout competitive activities
Self-assessment and reflection help students understand their own learning

Common Misconceptions

Thinking faster passing is always better - accuracy is more important than speed
Believing only one hand position works for all catches - hand rolling is essential
Assuming game success only depends on individual skill - teamwork is crucial
Thinking passing technique doesn't matter in games - good technique transfers to game situations
Believing mistakes mean failure - errors are learning opportunities

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries, regular feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Use larger balls initially, reduce complexity of movements, provide extra practice time and encouragement

autism spectrum

Provide clear routines and structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal cues for all demonstrations, assign sighted buddy for support

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Adapt to seated passing positions, use lighter balls, modify distances and rules as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting passes accurately, calculating scores, measuring distances for game setup, geometry in understanding angles

Science

Forces and motion in ball trajectory, friction between boots and ground, body systems during exercise

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, directional language (left/right/forward/back), mapping movement patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with pressure and competition, giving and receiving feedback constructively

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position at edge of activity area with clear sightlines to all groups, move between groups during practice

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique development, effective communication, and safe play throughout

Intervention Points

Step in when technique errors persist, safety issues arise, or students need additional challenge

Demonstration Notes

Use student demonstrations frequently to share good practice, ensure all students can see demonstrations clearly

Verbal Cues

•'Step into your pass!'
•'Make a clear target!'
•'Pocket position!'
•'Roll those hands!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for warm-up, additional space for skill practice groups

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check balls are properly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure tag belts are secure and tags are properly attached
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between moving players
•Slips and falls during direction changes
•Ball impacts to face or body
•Tag belt injuries from rough pulling

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and communicated
•Adequate spacing between activity groups
•Progressive skill building from stationary to moving
•Emphasis on fair play and controlled contact
•Proper warm-up to prepare muscles and joints

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Circulate between groups during activities
•Monitor intensity levels and fatigue
•Watch for any developing conflicts or safety issues

Emergency Procedures

STOP signal understood by all, immediate assessment of any injuries, appropriate first aid response