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Lesson 6 - Defensive Strategies

Invasion Game Skills

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Year 7

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Flag Football

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1h 1min

Big Question

How can effective defensive strategies transform your team's performance in Flag Football?

Learning Objectives

Apply defensive skills effectively in different game situations
Work collaboratively to adopt and execute defensive strategies
Demonstrate tactical flexibility in competitive Flag Football scenarios

Key Outcomes

Students will execute man-to-man and zonal defensive strategies with increasing confidence
Students will make tactical decisions based on game situations and opponent movements
Students will communicate effectively as a defensive unit during game play

Equipment & Resources Required

Flag Footballs

6-8 balls

Distributed around playing area perimeter for quick access

Alternative: Size 3 footballs, rugby balls for throwing practice

Tag Belts

1 per student (30)

Pre-distributed with two flags per belt, extra flags available

Alternative: Coloured bibs with ribbon attachments, velcro flag belts

Cones

20-30 cones

Used for zone marking, boundaries, and line of scrimmage indication

Alternative: Markers, spot markers, rope for boundaries

Bibs

15 each of 2 colours

Clearly distinguish teams during game application

Alternative: Coloured bands, team pinnards

Stopwatch

For timing defensive drills and game segments

Alternative: Phone timer, whistle for time signals

Key Vocabulary

Man-to-man defence

A defensive strategy where each defender is assigned to cover a specific offensive player

Zonal defence

A defensive strategy where defenders cover specific areas of the field rather than individual players

Line of scrimmage

The imaginary line where each play begins, separating offensive and defensive teams

Intercept

When a defensive player catches a pass intended for an offensive player

Marking

Staying close to and covering an offensive player to prevent them receiving the ball

Tactical flexibility

The ability to adapt defensive strategies based on changing game situations

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic Flag Football rules and gameplay
Individual ball handling and passing skills
Understanding of offensive strategies and positions

Current Skills

Man-to-man defensive marking techniques
Zonal defensive positioning and coverage
Tactical communication during game situations

Next Steps

Advanced defensive formations and blitz packages
Transition from defence to offence strategies
Competition-level Flag Football participation

Milestone Indicators

Consistently maintains defensive assignment for full play

Communicates effectively with defensive teammates

Successfully intercepts or disrupts offensive plays

Key Teaching Points

Defensive positioning requires constant awareness of both assigned player and ball location
Effective communication is essential for successful defensive strategy execution
Man-to-man defence demands individual responsibility and focus on specific assignments
Zonal defence requires spatial awareness and disciplined coverage of designated areas
Tactical flexibility allows teams to adapt defensive strategies based on offensive formations
Pressure and positioning can force offensive mistakes leading to possession changes
Team defensive success depends on all players fulfilling their individual responsibilities

Common Misconceptions

Thinking defence is less skilful than offence - defence requires equal tactical knowledge and technical ability
Believing faster players automatically make better defenders - positioning and anticipation are more important
Assuming zonal defence is easier than man-to-man - zone coverage requires excellent spatial awareness and communication
Thinking defensive success only comes from interceptions - pressure and disruption are equally valuable
Believing individual defensive skills don't matter in team defence - team success requires individual competence

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries and expectations, regular positive feedback and encouragement

dyspraxia

Simplified defensive movements initially, extra practice time, larger equipment for easier handling

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual tactical diagrams, quiet zones available for overwhelming moments

visual impairment

Use bright coloured equipment, verbal cues for all instructions, buddy system for guidance and support

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for tactical communication, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Modified field size, adapted flag positioning, alternative defensive roles such as tactical advisor

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Tactical vocabulary development, communication skills, following and giving instructions clearly

Maths

Counting downs and scoring systems, calculating field dimensions and zone areas, timing tactical discussions

Science

Understanding forces in throwing and catching, body systems during physical activity, reaction times and reflexes

Geography

Spatial awareness and field positioning, directional movement and orientation, mapping defensive formations

PSHE

Teamwork and communication skills, resilience when facing challenges, leadership during tactical discussions

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position at corner of playing area for visibility of all students, move between groups during skill development

Observation Focus

Watch for defensive assignment adherence, communication between teammates, safety during competitive play

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with defensive concepts, unsafe play developing, or unequal participation occurring

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for defensive positioning, emphasise communication during tactical discussions

Verbal Cues

•'Stay with your player!'
•'Communicate your zone!'
•'Watch the ball and your assignment!'
•'Great defensive pressure!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 60m for full game application, smaller grids 15m x 15m for skill development

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, adequate drainage if outdoors

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tag belts for secure attachment and appropriate fit
•Ensure footballs are properly inflated for safe handling
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during competitive game application
•Slips and falls on potentially wet surfaces
•Excessive physical contact during tag attempts
•Ball strikes during passing activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established with adequate run-off space
•Proper spacing between activity groups
•Progressive skill building from controlled to competitive scenarios
•Regular safety reminders about tag technique

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during game application
•Monitor high-activity areas for safety compliance
•Ensure equal participation and rest opportunities

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal understood by all students, immediate assessment of any incidents, appropriate first aid response and support