Lesson 3 - Passing Backwards and Dummy Passes
Technical to Tactical
•Year 5
•Tag Rugby
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How can we use backwards passes and dummy passes to outsmart defenders in rugby?
Learning Objectives
- To pass a rugby ball backwards consistently with accuracy
- To execute dummy passes effectively to deceive defenders
- To understand and apply key rugby rules including knock-ons and forward passes
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate consistent backwards passing whilst moving
- Students will use dummy passes strategically in game situations
- Students will apply passing skills effectively under defensive pressure
Equipment & Resources Required
Pre-positioned around activity areas
Alternative: Foam rugby balls for beginners, size 3 rugby balls
Students wear throughout main session and game
Alternative: Fabric belts with velcro tags
Mark boundaries and passing lanes
Alternative: Markers, discs, or training spots
Distinguish teams during game session
Alternative: Different coloured clothing or bands
Ensure accurate 2m and 3m spacing
Alternative: Pre-marked field lines
Key Vocabulary
Passing the ball towards your own try line, away from the opponent's try line
A deceptive movement that looks like a pass but the ball is retained
When a player drops the ball and it moves forward towards the opponent's try line
Illegally throwing the ball towards the opponent's try line
Allowing play to continue after an infringement if the non-offending team benefits
The velcro strip attached to a belt that defenders try to remove
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic ball handling skills
- Understanding of teamwork in games
- Simple passing between stationary partners
Current Skills
- Backwards passing whilst moving
- Dummy pass technique
- Defensive positioning and tagging
Next Steps
- Advanced rugby tactics and set plays
- Offloading in contact situations
- Strategic game play and team formations
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- In rugby, the ball must always be passed backwards towards your own try line
- Dummy passes require convincing body movement and secure ball retention
- Ball carrier should run slightly ahead of supporting players for effective angles
- Defenders must close space safely and set themselves before attempting tags
- Advantage rule allows play to continue when non-offending team benefits
- Communication and teamwork are essential for successful rugby play
- Safety in tagging is paramount - pull tags, don't pull players
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking 'backwards pass' means running backwards - players run forward, ball goes back
- Believing dummy passes should be subtle - they need to be convincing and obvious to work
- Assuming advantage means play always continues - it only applies when the non-offending team benefits
- Thinking knock-ons only happen when dropping - includes any forward ball movement from hands
- Believing tag rugby has the same contact rules as full rugby - it's a non-contact variant
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Use shorter activity segments, provide clear boundaries, give frequent positive feedback and movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Use larger equipment initially, reduce activity complexity, provide extra practice time and step-by-step instruction
autism spectrum
- Maintain clear routine structure, provide visual schedule of activities, offer quiet break areas if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal cues for direction, implement buddy system for guidance during activities
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, implement hand signals for play instructions, provide written game rules reference
physical disability
- Offer seated passing versions, use larger/lighter balls as needed, modify distances and provide stationary positions
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Angles and direction when passing backwards, measuring distances for spacing, calculating try scores and statistics
Science
Forces and motion in ball trajectory, friction between different surfaces, body systems during exercise and recovery
Geography
Directions and compass points, spatial awareness and field positioning, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, managing emotions during competition, respect for rules and opponents, building resilience
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around activity areas to observe all students, position at corner during games for maximum court visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for backwards passing accuracy, dummy pass technique, safe tagging methods, and positive team interactions
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe tagging occurs, forward passes become frequent, or students become frustrated with skills
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for dummy passes, show clear ball trajectory for backwards passing, emphasise safety in all contact situations
Verbal Cues
- •'Ball goes backwards, players go forwards!'
- •'Sell that dummy - make it look real!'
- •'Get close before you decide to pass or dummy!'
- •'Defender, close that space!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m area, preferably marked rugby/football pitch or large sports hall
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for running with direction changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check rugby balls are properly inflated and free from damage
- •Ensure tag belts fit securely without being too tight
- •Verify tags are properly attached to belts
- •Cones positioned to avoid collision hazards
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during running and passing activities
- •Slips and falls during direction changes
- •Unsafe tagging techniques causing injury
- •Ball strikes from inaccurate passes
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and running lanes established
- •Emphasise controlled pace initially before building speed
- •Teach and reinforce safe tagging technique throughout
- •Adequate spacing between activities and groups
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all activities
- •Monitor high-activity areas during game play
- •Watch for fatigue affecting safety and technique
- •Ensure proper tag replacement procedures
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, complete accident report if necessary