Rippa Rugby Introduction

Overview

This 30-minute introductory lesson to Rippa Rugby is designed for a preschool class of 20 students. The focus is on introducing basic Rippa Rugby skills while fostering teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship. The lesson aligns with the Health and Physical Education learning area of the New Zealand Curriculum and supports the holistic development of young learners.

Curriculum Links

New Zealand Curriculum: Health and Physical Education (Years 1-2 relevant to preschool age)

Strand: Relationships with Other People
- Participates actively in group activities
Strand: Movement Concepts and Motor Skills
- Develops fundamental movement skills and gain confidence in a range of physical activities.
Key Competencies
- Relating to others - interacting, cooperating, and participating with others in physical activities.
- Participating and contributing - engaging actively in activities and understanding teamwork and fair play.
Values
- Respect and Excellence - respect for others and striving to do their best in games.

These elements are reflected in the lesson’s focus on simple rules, learning to collaborate, and encouraging positive attitudes towards peers and sport.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will:

Understand and demonstrate simple throwing, catching, and pulling of the “rippa” tags.
Recognise the importance of teamwork and cooperation in games.
Show beginning understanding of sportsmanship, including taking turns and encouraging peers.

Competencies Developed

Thinking: Making sense of physical actions and game rules.
Using language, symbols, and texts: Using basic game language (e.g., pass, tag, teamwork).
Managing self: Developing control of body movements and behaviour.
Relating to others: Working cooperatively and showing respect.

Detailed Lesson Structure

1. Welcome and Introduction (5 minutes)

Gather students in a circle and introduce the concept of Rippa Rugby as a fun game where we play together to get the tag ("rippa") instead of tackling.
Discuss briefly what teamwork and sportsmanship mean, using simple language and examples (e.g., "We work together and help each other," "We take turns and cheer for our friends").
Show the Rippa Rugby equipment to create excitement.

Teaching Prompt: Use simple questions to engage, e.g., "What do you think we need to do to play as a team?"

2. Warm-Up Fun (5 minutes)

Play a simple movement game like "Follow the Leader" or "Tag Your Partner," encouraging spatial awareness, running, and listening skills.
Use this to prepare the children physically and mentally for the activities.

3. Skill Introduction Stations (12 minutes total, 4 minutes per station)

Set up 3 stations to introduce basic skills with small groups of 6-7 children rotating

Station 1: Passing the Ball
- Children practise gentle passing of a soft rugby ball to their partner.
- Emphasise two hands, eyes on the ball, and using words like "ready" and "go."
Station 2: Catching the Ball
- Teachers or helpers gently toss the ball for children to catch, encouraging soft hands and attention.
Station 3: Tag Pulling Practice
- Show how to pull the “rippa” tag safely from a belt or vest on a peer, promoting gentle touch and respect for others’ safety.

4. Mini Rippa Rugby Game (6 minutes)

Divide children into two teams (10 per team).
Play a simplified version where children run with the ball and teammates help by passing; the opposing team tries to pull tags, ending a run.
Use clear, simple instructions and encourage cheering and encouragement between players.
Focus on fun, participation, and inclusive play rather than formal rules.

5. Cool Down and Reflection (2 minutes)

Gather children back to a circle.
Ask a few simple reflective questions:
- "What did you enjoy about playing today?"
- "How did you help your friends during the game?"
Reinforce the ideas of teamwork and taking turns.
Praise all efforts and encourage children to look forward to the next lesson.

Resources Required

Soft Rippa Rugby balls suitable for preschoolers
Rippa Rugby tag belts or vests
Cones for station setup and boundaries
Whistle and a timer

Assessment and Feedback

Informal observations during activities for:
- Participation and willingness to engage in movement tasks.
- Demonstrations of simple skills: passing, catching, and tag pulling.
- Social interactions showing cooperation and encouragement.
Use positive reinforcement and gentle guidance to support further skill development.
Record notes on student engagement to inform upcoming lessons in the unit.

Teacher Tips

Use clear, simple, and enthusiastic language.
Encourage children by name and model positive behaviour continuously.
Be flexible and ready to adapt activities quickly to maintain engagement.
Ensure all children have opportunity to try all activities, rotating smoothly.
Emphasise inclusion and celebrate small successes to build confidence and enjoyment.

This lesson effectively introduces young learners to Rippa Rugby in a supportive environment aligned with the New Zealand Curriculum’s health and physical education objectives, valuing holistic child development through play and interaction.