Rugby Skills Start

Lesson Overview

Unit: Rugby Ready: Skills & Fun Lesson 1: Introduction to Rugby Basics Duration: 60 minutes Class size: 20 students Year level: Year 2 (ages 6-7) Learning Area: Health and Physical Education (HPE)

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Learning Intentions (WALT)

• We are learning to understand the basic rules of rugby.
• We are learning to develop fundamental rugby skills including passing and catching.
• We are learning to work cooperatively in teams during physical activities.

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Curriculum Alignment

New Zealand Curriculum Links (Health and Physical Education)

• Strand: Movement Concepts and Motor Skills

• Achievement Objective:

• Participate in and contribute to a variety of physical activities developing confidence and competence (Level 1)

• Develop fundamental movement skills including object control skills such as passing and catching a ball.

• Strand: Relationships with Other People

• Achievement Objective:

• Participate actively in group and team activities (Level 1)

• Understand and demonstrate fair play and cooperation in team games.

• Key Competencies:

• Managing self - follow safety instructions and rules.

• Relating to others - communicate and work respectfully with peers during activities.

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Success Criteria

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Explain at least two basic rules of rugby, such as not running forward when passing and staying within the playing area.
• Successfully demonstrate a chest pass and catch with a partner.
• Show understanding of teamwork by cooperating during drills.

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Resources Needed

• Rugby balls (soft or size 3 appropriate for year 2)
• Cones to mark drill areas
• Visual aids/posters outlining basic rugby rules (simple images and key words)
• Whistle
• Name tags or coloured bands for teams (if grouping)

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Lesson Structure & Timing

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

• Welcome and warm-up (5 minutes): Lead a fun running and stretching warm-up focusing on body awareness and readiness.
• Explain WALT and Success Criteria (5 minutes): Use simple language and visual aids to outline what students will learn about rugby rules and skills.
• Introduce key vocabulary: pass, catch, teamwork, rules.

2. Teaching Rugby Basics (15 minutes)

• Purpose and Basic Rules (5 minutes): Use visuals to explain:
• Rugby is a game where you pass the ball backwards (never forwards).
• You catch the ball to keep possession.
• Teamwork is important; help your team get the ball to the other side.
• Demonstration of Passing and Catching (10 minutes): Teacher models the chest pass and catching technique using Rugby balls.
• "Hold the ball with two hands, push it out straight to your partner."
• Catch with two hands, keeping eyes on the ball.

3. Skill Practice Drills (20 minutes)

• Partner Passing and Catching Drill (10 minutes): Students pair up and practice chest passing and catching in a designated space with clear boundaries marked by cones.
• Use peer support; stronger students help partners.
• Observe and give positive feedback.
• Small Group Relay (10 minutes): In groups of 4-5, students pass the ball along a line or around cones, focusing on accuracy and teamwork.
• Encourage clear communication ("Ready!", "Catch!").
• For advanced learners, introduce mild “pressure” by having them pass while on the move.

4. Teamwork Introduction and Mini-Game (10 minutes)

• Form two teams and explain the idea of working together.
• Play a simple "keep the ball moving" game where teams try to complete several passes without dropping the ball.
• Reinforce safe play and encourage cheering for teammates.

5. Reflection and Cool Down (5 minutes)

• Group Discussion: Recap two basic rugby rules students remember.
• Invite students to share what they found easy or tricky.
• Lead cool-down stretching focusing on breathing and relaxation.

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Differentiation Strategies

• Visual aids with clear images simplify rule explanation for all learners.
• Pair less confident students with supportive peers to help practise skills together.
• Use slower-paced demonstrations and repeat instructions for students needing more time.
• Provide clear, positive feedback and celebrate achievements.

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Extension Activities for Advanced Learners

• Practice dynamic passing under light “pressure” from a moving defender or in small-sided games.
• Develop basic dodging skills by weaving through cones before passing.
• Encourage leadership by having advanced learners assist with peer coaching during drills.

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Assessment & Monitoring

• Observe students’ ability to perform passing and catching skills accurately with a partner.
• Ask students to verbally explain at least two rugby rules to check understanding.
• Monitor teamwork and cooperation during group activities, noting ability to communicate and share the ball.

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Additional Notes

• Emphasise safety throughout — ensure students have adequate space and remind them to listen carefully to instructions.
• Keep activities varied and fun to maintain engagement for young learners.
• Use everyday language and positive affirmations to build confidence and enjoyment.

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This lesson is designed to build foundational rugby knowledge and skills for Year 2 students in an inclusive and enjoyable way, closely aligned with the New Zealand Curriculum Health and Physical Education objectives and competencies. It encourages active participation, teamwork, and skill development in a supportive environment.