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Big Question

How can we maintain accurate passing technique when under pressure and on the move?

Learning Objectives

  • To send and receive a ball accurately on the run and under pressure
  • To demonstrate effective passing technique from both left and right pockets
  • To apply tactical decision-making in dynamic game situations

Key Outcomes

  • Students will pass accurately whilst moving at speed
  • Students will adapt their body position for left and right passing
  • Students will communicate effectively during game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rugby Balls
15 (1 per 2 students)

Distributed around area perimeter for easy access

Alternative: Size 3 footballs, netballs for smaller hands

Tag Belts
30 (1 per student)

Different colours for team identification

Alternative: Bibs tucked into shorts, coloured bands

Dish Cones
20

Various sizes for different activities

Alternative: Spots, jumpers, any visible markers

Stopwatch
1

For timing activities and rest periods

Alternative: Phone timer, class timer

Key Vocabulary

Pocket passing

Passing the ball from either side pocket position (left or right) with correct body positioning

Hand rolling

Rotating hands when catching high or low balls to maintain secure grip

W shape

Target hand position for receiving passes with thumbs together forming a W

Under pressure

Performing skills whilst being challenged by opponents or time constraints

Dynamic movement

Moving at varying speeds and directions whilst maintaining ball control

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic passing and catching technique
  • Understanding of tag rugby rules
  • Experience with static passing drills

Current Skills

  • Passing under pressure
  • Dynamic movement with ball
  • Pocket passing technique
  • Hand rolling for catches

Next Steps

  • Advanced tactical passing in game situations
  • Complex passing combinations
  • Leadership roles in team play

Milestone Indicators

1
Consistent accuracy in 80% of passes under pressure
2
Smooth transition between left and right pocket passing
3
Effective communication during dynamic play

Key Teaching Points

  • Pocket passing technique requires proper body positioning and arm extension
  • Hand rolling is essential for securing catches at different heights
  • Communication and decision-making improve performance under pressure
  • Technique must be maintained even when activities become more challenging
  • Positive peer feedback enhances learning for all students

Common Misconceptions

  • Thinking pocket passes are the same as normal passes - body position is crucial
  • Believing hand rolling is optional - it's essential for consistent catching
  • Assuming faster movement always equals better performance - control is key
  • Thinking individual skill is more important than team communication
  • Believing mistakes mean failure - they're part of the learning process

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries and expectations, regular movement breaks built in, positive reinforcement frequent
dyspraxia
  • Larger balls initially, reduced complexity in multi-step activities, extra practice time, clear step-by-step breakdowns
autism spectrum
  • Clear structure and routine, visual activity schedule, quiet zones available, predictable activity progression
visual impairment
  • Use bright coloured balls, provide clear verbal descriptions of activities, buddy system for movement
hearing impairment
  • Visual demonstrations of all techniques, written instruction cards, use of hand signals for communication
physical disability
  • Seated passing version available, adapted distances, modified equipment as needed, focus on achievable challenges

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting successful passes, measuring distances for cone placement, calculating success rates and team scores

Science

Forces in passing (levers), reaction time in decision-making, momentum in running movements

Geography

Spatial awareness, directional language (left/right), mapping movement patterns around area

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, fair play and honest self-assessment

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

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

Observation Focus

Watch for technique maintenance under pressure, effective communication, and safe movement patterns

Intervention Points

Step in if technique deteriorates significantly, unsafe play occurs, or students become frustrated

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clarity, demonstrate both correct and incorrect technique for contrast, involve students in demonstrations when appropriate

Verbal Cues
  • 'Pocket to target!'
  • 'Step and follow through!'
  • 'W shape hands!'
  • 'Roll those hands!'
  • 'Quick decisions!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for warm-up, additional space for game activities

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles and debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Rugby balls properly inflated and checked for damage
  • Tag belts secure and in good condition
  • Cones positioned safely away from collision zones

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Collisions during tag games
  • Falls when changing direction quickly
  • Ball strikes during passing activities
Risk Mitigation
  • Clear boundaries established and reinforced
  • Adequate spacing between groups during activities
  • Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
  • Emphasis on controlled movement over maximum speed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position for maximum visibility of all activities
  • Monitor high-activity areas during tag games
  • Watch for fatigue affecting technique and safety
Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, appropriate first aid response, complete accident report if required