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Lesson 4 - Attacking Tactics

Tactical Team Performance

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Year 6

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Tag Rugby

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Big Question

How can we use tactical awareness to create and exploit space in attack?

Learning Objectives

Recognise the difference between attacking and defensive tactics
Apply tactical principles in game situations
Use the 'spaces not faces' concept to improve attacking play

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate understanding of attacking tactics
Students will apply space recognition skills in game scenarios
Students will communicate effectively to support team attacking play

Equipment & Resources Required

Tag Rugby Equipment

2 per student (60 tags)

Ensure tags are securely fastened and easily removable

Alternative: Coloured bibs or strips of fabric

Rugby Balls

8-10 balls

Balls inflated to correct pressure for safe handling

Alternative: Size 3 footballs or foam balls

Cones

22 cones

Use different colours for boundaries and zones

Alternative: Markers or spots

Bibs

15 in each of 2 colours

Clear colour distinction between teams

Alternative: Team bands or pinnies

Key Vocabulary

Spaces not faces

Attacking principle of running into space rather than directly at defenders

Attacking tactics

Strategic plans used by a team to score points or gain territory

Space recognition

Ability to identify gaps and opportunities in the opposing defence

Support play

Players positioning themselves to help the ball carrier

Exploitation

Taking advantage of weaknesses or gaps in the opposition

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic tag rugby rules and gameplay
Fundamental passing and catching techniques
Understanding of attacking and defending roles

Current Skills

Tactical awareness and decision-making
Space recognition and exploitation
Team communication in attacking situations

Next Steps

Advanced tactical combinations
Defensive strategies and counter-attacks
Set plays and structured attacks

Milestone Indicators

Consistent identification of space

Quick decision-making under pressure

Effective team communication

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise 'spaces not faces' principle throughout all activities
Encourage constant communication between teammates
Highlight that team success is more important than individual achievement
Use questioning to develop tactical thinking rather than giving all answers
Celebrate good tactical decisions even if they don't lead to immediate success
Maintain focus on fair play and respect throughout competitive elements
Adapt teaching based on students' understanding and application of concepts

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking they must always run with the ball rather than pass to someone in better position
Believing that running faster automatically creates better attacking opportunities
Assuming that individual skill is more important than team tactical awareness
Thinking that attack is only successful if it results in scoring
Misconception that defenders should always chase the ball carrier

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear breaks, specific roles and responsibilities, regular positive feedback and encouragement

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time for tactical concepts, visual aids for positioning and space recognition

autism spectrum

Clear structure and routine, visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet zones available if needed, consistent rules and expectations

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured tags and balls, provide verbal descriptions of space and positioning, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual signals and demonstrations, written tactical instructions on display boards, visual cues for game flow

physical disability

Modify tagging rules for wheelchair users, adjust playing area size, provide alternative roles such as tactical advisor

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Spatial awareness, angles of movement, numerical advantage calculations (6v5), measurement of playing areas and time management

Science

Forces and motion in running and direction changes, reaction times in tactical decision-making, fitness and cardiovascular responses

Geography

Spatial concepts, mapping movement patterns, direction and orientation, territory and boundary concepts

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills, resilience under pressure, fair play and respect for others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of activities for optimal viewing, position centrally during discussions

Observation Focus

Watch for tactical decision-making, space recognition, team communication and safe play

Intervention Points

Step in when safety concerns arise, when students need tactical guidance, or when fair play is compromised

Demonstration Notes

Use students as positive examples when possible, demonstrate key concepts clearly with exaggerated movements

Verbal Cues

•'Where's the space?'
•'Support your teammate!'
•'Think spaces not faces!'
•'Communication!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m playing area with additional space for multiple activities

Surface Check

Flat, dry surface free from hazards and adequate grip for running and direction changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all tags are securely fastened but easily removable
•Inspect balls for correct inflation and any damage
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during sprinting activities
•Falls when changing direction quickly
•Tag-related injuries if not removed properly
•Over-exertion in competitive games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and playing rules established
•Emphasis on safe tagging technique throughout
•Progressive build-up from simple to complex activities
•Regular breaks to prevent over-exertion
•Teacher positioning for optimal supervision

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all playing areas
•Monitor competitive games for fair play and safety
•Watch for signs of fatigue or over-exertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if serious injury occurs