Lesson 3 - Hand-Off Technique
Invasion Game Skills
â˘Year 7
â˘Flag Football
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How can we use deception and technique to gain an advantage in invasion games?
Learning Objectives
- Students will demonstrate secure hand-off technique with consistent pocket formation
- Students will apply dodging and feinting skills effectively in game situations
- Students will develop tactical awareness through invasion game play
Key Outcomes
- By the end of this lesson, students will execute hand-offs with 80% success rate
- Students will demonstrate at least three different dodging techniques during gameplay
- Students will articulate and apply team tactics in invasion game scenarios
Equipment & Resources Required
Different colours for invasion game - 2 sets of matching colours
Alternative: Rugby balls, American footballs
Check all belts have 2 flags attached securely
Alternative: Touch rugby tags, coloured bands
Various colours for marking zones and practice areas
Alternative: Markers, chalk lines
For recording tactical discussions and gameplay analysis
Alternative: Smartphone with video capability
Key Vocabulary
A transfer of the ball from quarterback to running back without throwing
Player who receives the ball and runs with it to advance down field
A deceptive movement to mislead an opponent about intended direction
Formation created with arms to securely receive a hand-off
A quick lateral movement to avoid an opponent
Game where teams try to invade opponent's territory to score
Area that a team protects from opposing players
Planned strategies used by a team to achieve objectives
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching skills
- Understanding of invasion game principles
- Basic awareness of space and movement
Current Skills
- Hand-off technique with pocket formation
- Feinting and dodging movements
- Tactical application in invasion games
Next Steps
- Advanced passing techniques (spiral passes)
- Complex offensive and defensive strategies
- Flag football tournament play
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Hand-off technique requires secure pocket formation - high elbow, palm down receiving position
- Effective feinting uses whole body commitment to sell the deception convincingly
- Ball security is paramount - always secure with both hands before attempting to run
- Team tactics in invasion games require communication and coordinated movement
- Progressive skill building - master technique before adding speed or pressure
- Fair play and sportsmanship are essential for enjoyable and safe gameplay
- Self-assessment and reflection develop independent learning and goal-setting skills
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking hand-offs are the same as passing - emphasis on physical transfer not throwing
- Believing feints need to be dramatic - subtle body movements can be more effective
- Assuming individual skill is more important than team tactics in invasion games
- Thinking faster is always better - controlled technique leads to better outcomes
- Believing that losing possession means failure - learning opportunity and part of the game
- Assuming all students learn at the same rate - differentiation allows for individual progress
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, regular positive feedback, movement breaks, clear visual boundaries
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, step-by-step skill breakdowns
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, consistent routines, quiet reflection zones available, predictable team groupings
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured equipment, clear verbal instructions for all movements, buddy system for navigation, tactile markers for boundaries
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for common instructions, written tactical boards, clear visual boundaries
physical disability
- Seated passing variations, modified tag systems, adapted ball sizes, shorter distances for activities
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Tactical vocabulary development, communication skills in team discussions, analytical language in performance review
Maths
Calculating success rates and percentages, measuring distances for tactical positioning, angles of movement and feints
Science
Forces and motion in ball transfer, friction effects on dodging movements, energy systems during sustained activity
ICT
Video analysis skills, digital recording techniques, data collection for performance improvement
PSHE
Leadership skills in team discussions, resilience when facing challenges, empathy in supporting teammates
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter during activities, position centrally during explanations for visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for technique application, safety awareness, and positive team interactions
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with technique, unsafe behaviour, or negative team dynamics
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for clarity, involve confident students in demonstrations, repeat key points frequently
Verbal Cues
- â˘'Create that pocket!' for hand-off practice
- â˘'Sell the feint!' for dodging activities
- â˘'Team tactics!' during game play
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear area, marked court for invasion game
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from obstacles, check for slippery areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- â˘Check all tag belts have secure fastenings
- â˘Ensure footballs are properly inflated
- â˘Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage
Risk Management
Key Risks
- â˘Collisions during dodging activities
- â˘Trips and falls during dynamic movement
- â˘Flag pulling injuries if done incorrectly
Risk Mitigation
- â˘Clear movement patterns established
- â˘Adequate spacing between activities
- â˘Progressive skill building before game application
- â˘Emphasis on fair play and safe contact
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- â˘Position for maximum visibility during game play
- â˘Monitor high-activity central areas
- â˘Watch for fatigue during extended activities
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required