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Lesson 2 - Consolidate Defending

Mastering Attack & Defence

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Year 6

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Tag Rugby

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Big Question

How can defenders work as a team to prevent attackers from scoring whilst applying the rules fairly and consistently?

Learning Objectives

Refine knowledge of tagging techniques and defensive formations to prevent attacks
Develop understanding of reducing space and applying pressure to prevent scoring
Consolidate application of offside rules and defensive positioning

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate secure tagging technique in game situations
Students will work collaboratively to create and apply effective defensive tactics
Students will understand and apply the offside rule consistently during games

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Belts

1 per student (30)

Check all tags are securely attached before activities

Alternative: Velcro tags, coloured strips

Rugby Balls

8-10

Inflated to correct pressure for good handling

Alternative: Foam balls for mixed abilities

Cones

20-30

Use for marking boundaries and playing areas

Alternative: Marker discs

Bibs

15 (mixed colours)

Distinguish teams clearly during games

Alternative: Coloured bands

Key Vocabulary

Tagging

Removing an opponent's tag to stop their progress

Offside

Being in front of the ball when not allowed by the rules

Defensive formation

Organised positioning of defenders to prevent attacks

Try line

The line that attackers must cross to score points

Free pass

Uncontested pass awarded after a tag is made

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic tagging technique learned in previous units
Understanding of attacking strategies
Knowledge of basic tag rugby rules

Current Skills

Secure tagging method with correct calling
Defensive formations and positioning
Application of offside rule
Team defensive communication

Next Steps

Advanced defensive strategies under pressure
Leading team defensive organisation
Transition from defence to attack

Milestone Indicators

Consistent tagging technique in game situations

Quick reformation after tags are made

Effective communication during defensive phases

Key Teaching Points

Correct tagging technique must be two-handed with clear 'tag' call
Offside rule application is crucial for fair play and game flow
Defensive positioning and communication are more important than individual speed
Quick reformation after tags maintains defensive pressure
Positive officiating develops leadership and rules understanding
Team tactics and strategies should be discussed and adapted
Safety through controlled technique rather than aggressive play

Common Misconceptions

Thinking defending is just about running fast - emphasise positioning and teamwork
Believing one-handed tags are acceptable - always reinforce two-handed technique
Assuming offside rule doesn't apply in tag rugby - demonstrate importance clearly
Thinking loudest communication is best - teach clear, specific calls
Believing physical strength is most important - emphasise technique and tactics

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use shorter activity bursts, provide clear boundaries and expectations, give specific roles and responsibilities

dyspraxia

Break down tagging technique into smaller steps, provide extra practice time, use larger targets for initial success

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, use visual schedule for lesson progression, offer quiet zone for breaks if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured tags and equipment, provide clear verbal cues for positioning, assign sighted buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and hand gestures, demonstrate all instructions clearly, position facing student when speaking

physical disability

Adapt tagging to seated position if needed, modify playing area size, use lighter equipment where appropriate

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting attempts in Cross the River, calculating success rates, measuring playing areas and distances

Science

Understanding forces in tagging, friction between feet and ground, reaction times in defensive responses

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding directional language, mapping field positions

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, respect for rules and officials, managing emotions under pressure, building resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups to provide individual feedback, position at corners for maximum visibility of multiple activities

Observation Focus

Watch for correct tagging technique, application of offside rule, team communication, and safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in when unsafe play occurs, when students struggle with concepts, or when games need restart

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate at student pace, exaggerate key movements for visibility, use students as positive examples when appropriate

Verbal Cues

•'Two hands on the tag!'
•'Hold it high and call tag!'
•'Step back behind the ball!'
•'Talk to your teammates!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m outdoor area or large sports hall

Surface Check

Level grass or sports hall surface, free from hazards and adequate grip

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All tag belts checked for secure attachment and no sharp edges
•Rugby balls inflated correctly to prevent injury
•Cones positioned safely without trip hazards

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during tagging attempts
•Falls when changing direction quickly
•Overexertion during high-intensity games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained
•Progressive warm-up to prepare muscles
•Emphasis on controlled tagging technique
•Regular hydration breaks in warm weather
•Immediate stop signal understood by all

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to oversee multiple activities simultaneously
•Monitor for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Watch for correct tagging technique to prevent injuries

Emergency Procedures

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