Lesson 2 - Consolidate Defending
Mastering Attack & Defence
•Year 6
•Tag Rugby
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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
Check all tags are securely attached before activities
Alternative: Velcro tags, coloured strips
Inflated to correct pressure for good handling
Alternative: Foam balls for mixed abilities
Use for marking boundaries and playing areas
Alternative: Marker discs
Distinguish teams clearly during games
Alternative: Coloured bands
Key Vocabulary
Removing an opponent's tag to stop their progress
Being in front of the ball when not allowed by the rules
Organised positioning of defenders to prevent attacks
The line that attackers must cross to score points
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
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