Lesson 3 - Flag Pulling and Snap Techniques
Advanced Tactics in Flag Football
•Year 6
•Flag Football
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Pre-distributed around activity area perimeter
Alternative: Coloured bibs tucked into shorts, ribbon strips
Available at each activity station
Alternative: Rugby balls, foam balls for beginners
Used to mark lines, boundaries and triangular formations
Alternative: Spots, markers, jumpers
For recording assessment evidence of communication skills
Alternative: Smartphone, video recording device
Key Vocabulary
The action of passing the ball backwards between the legs from centre to quarterback to start a play
The player who snaps the ball to start each play in Flag Football
The player who receives the snap and distributes the ball to receivers
The defensive technique of removing an opponent's flag to stop their forward progress
The player who runs routes to catch passes from the quarterback
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
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