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Lesson 6 - Attacking Plays Strategy

Advanced Tactics in Flag Football

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Year 6

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Flag Football

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Big Question

How can effective communication and strategic planning transform our attacking plays in flag football?

Learning Objectives

To execute different types of running routes with precision and timing
To receive a ball whilst maintaining running pace and stride pattern
To develop and communicate effective attacking strategies as a team

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate proficiency in running straight lines, slants, and hooks with proper technique
Students will successfully catch passes while maintaining running momentum
Students will create and execute coded attacking plays with clear communication

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Belts

1 per student (30)

Check all flags are securely attached before activity

Alternative: Tag belts with velcro strips

Gaelic Footballs

6 balls (1 per group)

Ensure proper inflation and grip surface

Alternative: Rugby balls or foam footballs

Whiteboards

6 boards (1 per group)

Include dry-wipe markers and board cleaners

Alternative: Large paper sheets and markers

Cones

20 cones

Use to mark field boundaries and zones

Alternative: Markers or spots

Video Device

1 tablet or camera

Ensure sufficient battery and memory space

Alternative: Mobile phone with video capability

Key Vocabulary

Quarterback

The player who throws the ball to teammates and leads the offensive play

Running Back

The player who receives hand-offs or short passes and runs with the ball

Wide Receiver

Players positioned wide who run routes to catch passes

Slant Route

A quick diagonal run across the field at a 45-degree angle

Hook Route

Running straight then turning back toward the quarterback

Line of Scrimmage

The imaginary line where each play begins

Down

One attempt to advance the ball toward the end zone

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic catching and throwing techniques from previous lessons
Understanding of flag football basic rules and positions
Experience working in teams and following instructions

Current Skills

Running precise route patterns with timing
Catching balls while maintaining running momentum
Creating and communicating coded team strategies

Next Steps

Advanced offensive formations and play calling
Defensive strategies and counter-attacks
Tournament-style competitive games

Milestone Indicators

Consistent route running with proper technique

Successful catches while maintaining running pace

Clear, effective team communication during plays

Key Teaching Points

Route running requires sharp cuts and precise timing, not rounded movements
Communication must be clear, quick, and understood by all team members
Catching while running maintains momentum - don't slow down to receive
Strategic thinking involves both offensive planning and adapting to situations
Team success depends on every player understanding their role and responsibilities
Practice and repetition build confidence in executing plays under pressure
Effective flag football combines individual skill with collective tactical understanding

Common Misconceptions

Thinking you need to slow down to catch the ball - maintain speed and catch in stride
Believing complex plays are always better - simple, well-executed plays are often most effective
Focusing only on the receiver when throwing - quarterbacks must read the whole field
Assuming communication is just calling plays - body language and timing are equally important
Thinking individual skill is more important than team coordination - success requires both
Believing you can't improve tactical thinking - strategy skills develop with practice and reflection

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear role definitions, regular position changes, frequent positive feedback

dyspraxia

Simplified routes initially, extra practice time, larger equipment, reduced complexity in play calling

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, consistent routines, quiet zones available for breaks

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, provide verbal route descriptions, buddy system for positioning guidance

hearing impairment

Visual hand signals for plays, written strategy boards, clear visual demonstrations of all techniques

physical disability

Modified routes with shorter distances, seated quarterback position, adapted flag pulling techniques

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, clear verbal communication, listening and following complex instructions

Maths

Counting timing for route running, calculating angles for cuts, measuring field distances and positions

Science

Forces and motion in throwing and catching, angles of trajectory, biomechanics of running and cutting movements

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of field layout and tactical positioning

PSHE

Leadership skills, effective communication, teamwork and cooperation, resilience in competitive situations

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter for visibility of all groups, position centrally during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for route technique, timing between players, communication clarity, and safety

Intervention Points

Step in if technique breaks down, safety concerns arise, or groups struggle with communication

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for route running, emphasise timing counts audibly, show positive communication examples

Verbal Cues

•'Sharp cuts, no rounding!'
•'Keep your eyes on the ball!'
•'Quick tactical talk - 10 seconds!'
•'Communicate clearly and loudly!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 25m area, clear of obstacles, with defined boundaries

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, appropriate for running and quick direction changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check flag belts are securely fastened and flags properly attached
•Ensure American footballs are properly inflated with good grip
•Verify cones are stable and visible
•Check video equipment is positioned safely away from play areas

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during route running
•Slips during quick cuts and direction changes
•Ball strikes from inaccurate throws
•Flag belt injuries from improper pulling technique

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established with adequate spacing between groups
•Progressive skill building from walking pace to game speed
•Emphasis on proper flag pulling technique without contact
•Regular equipment checks throughout lesson

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups during activities
•Monitor high-activity areas during game situations closely
•Watch for fatigue affecting technique and safety
•Ensure safe video recording position

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid if needed, contact emergency services if required