Page 52 - Year 8 Spring 2026 Knowledge Organiser

PE: Rugby Union: 5 of 9

Key Terms

Term Definition

Backward Pass A pass that moves the ball toward your own goal line.
Support Play Positioning yourself to help teammates during attack or defence.

Punt kick A kick where the ball is dropped from the hands and kicked before it hits the ground.

Switch pass A pass where the ball carrier and receiver changes direction sharply to receive the ball, aiming to confuse defenders.
Ruck A contest for the ball on the ground after a tackle.

Maul A contest where the ball carrier is held up by opponents but remains on their feet.

Scrum A contest involving forwards from both teams, used to restart play after specific rule infringements.
Line-Out A set-piece used to restart play when the ball has gone into touch (out of bounds).

Head: Understanding and Problem-Solving

Assessment Question Working Towards Expected Greater Depth

Can you explain the advanced Knows one or two rules (e.g., Explains key rules (e.g., knock- Explains and applies rules
rules of rugby? backward passing). ons, scoring a try). confidently in game scenarios.

Can you describe where to stand Stands in a basic position but with Positions correctly based on the Consistently positions self and
in a defensive line? limited understanding. game situation. directs teammates effectively.

Adapts decisions based on
Can you decide when to ruck or Chooses actions inconsistently Decides between rucking and changing scenarios during
maul during a game? with limited success. mauling effectively in context.
gameplay.

Can you evaluate your own and Identifies strengths or Suggests clear areas for Provides detailed analysis and
others’ performance? weaknesses with teacher support. improvement with examples. sets clear improvement goals.