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Lesson 3 - Flag Pulling and Snap Techniques

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 we master the art of flag pulling and snap techniques to become more effective in Flag Football attack and defence?

Learning Objectives

To develop consistent flag pulling techniques when defending
To master both basic and advanced snap centre-quarterback exchanges
To improve communication and teamwork skills during Flag Football activities

Key Outcomes

Students will consistently grab opponents' flags as they attack
Students will demonstrate proficient snap centre-quarterback exchanges
Students will communicate effectively and listen to teammates during game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Belts

1 per student (30)

Pre-distributed around activity area perimeter

Alternative: Coloured bibs tucked into shorts, ribbon strips

Gaelic Footballs

10-15

Available at each activity station

Alternative: Rugby balls, foam balls for beginners

Cones

Used to mark lines, boundaries and triangular formations

Alternative: Spots, markers, jumpers

Tablets

For recording assessment evidence of communication skills

Alternative: Smartphone, video recording device

Key Vocabulary

Snap

The action of passing the ball backwards between the legs from centre to quarterback to start a play

Centre

The player who snaps the ball to start each play in Flag Football

Quarterback

The player who receives the snap and distributes the ball to receivers

Flag Pulling

The defensive technique of removing an opponent's flag to stop their forward progress

Wide Receiver

The player who runs routes to catch passes from the quarterback

Trajectory

The curved path the ball follows when thrown through the air

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running and dodging movements
Understanding of personal space and safety
Simple ball handling and throwing techniques
Basic understanding of attack and defence concepts

Current Skills

Consistent flag pulling techniques
Centre-quarterback snap exchanges
Advanced communication during gameplay
Strategic thinking in attack and defence

Next Steps

Complex Flag Football gameplay with multiple strategies
Advanced offensive and defensive formations
Leadership roles in team coordination
Tournament-style competitive play

Milestone Indicators

Can grab 8 out of 10 flags when defending straight-line runs

Completes 5 consecutive successful snaps without dropping

Uses clear verbal communication throughout activities

Demonstrates strategic thinking in game situations

Key Teaching Points

Snap technique requires stable centre position with controlled backward delivery
Flag pulling targets the belt area only - never grab clothing or body
Communication should be constant, clear, and encouraging throughout all activities
Defensive positioning requires quick feet and anticipation of attacker movements
Throwing technique uses overarm motion with follow-through for accuracy
Teamwork in games requires strategic positioning and quick decision-making
Self-assessment skills help students understand their own learning progress

Common Misconceptions

Students think harder throws are always better - emphasise accuracy over power
Belief that flag pulling requires grabbing clothing - stress flag-only contact
Assumption that fastest runner always wins - teach importance of strategy
Thinking snap is just about throwing - emphasise the complete centre-quarterback exchange
Misconception that communication means shouting - teach clear, purposeful talking
Belief that defence is just chasing - teach positioning and anticipation skills

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, hands-on roles in all activities, immediate positive feedback

dyspraxia

Larger, softer equipment for easier handling, reduced complexity in movement patterns, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Clear, consistent routines for each activity, visual activity schedule, quiet break space available

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured flags and balls, provide audio cues for directions, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear hand signals, written instruction cards, ensure facing student when speaking

physical disability

Seated flag pulling practice, modified throwing distances, alternative snap techniques from wheelchair

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, clear communication skills, following and giving instructions

Maths

Calculating success rates and percentages for snaps and flag pulls, measuring distances for throws, timing activities

Science

Forces and motion in throwing trajectories, friction and grip in flag pulling, body mechanics in athletic movements

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, respecting opponents and celebrating success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location with clear sight lines to all groups, moving between activities to provide feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct snap technique, safe flag pulling, effective communication, and inclusion of all students

Intervention Points

Step in if technique is unsafe, if students are excluded, or if communication becomes negative

Demonstration Notes

Use students to demonstrate good technique when possible, exaggerate movements for visibility, provide positive examples

Verbal Cues

•'Soft hands for receiving the snap!'
•'Target the flags, not the person!'
•'Communicate clearly with your teammates!'
•'Think before you move - have a plan!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 30m area, clear of obstacles, with defined boundaries for multiple group activities

Surface Check

Dry, even grass or sports hall surface free from holes, debris, or hazardous markings

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check footballs are properly inflated and have no damage
•Ensure flag belts are secure but not too tight
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Test recording device has sufficient battery and secure positioning

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during evasion activities
•Falls during quick direction changes
•Ball strikes to head or body
•Flag belt entanglement or clothing damage
•Over-exertion during continuous activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between groups
•Adequate spacing maintained throughout all activities
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Emphasis on flag targeting rather than body contact
•Regular breaks and hydration opportunities
•Clear verbal signals for starting and stopping activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups simultaneously
•Monitor high-activity areas like flag pulling zones
•Watch for fatigue levels during continuous games
•Ensure proper technique to prevent injury

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if serious, continue activity only when safe