American football rules

High school (ages 12+)
Sports & Games

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/american-football-rules

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What are downs in American football?The offense gets four plays, called downs, to move the ball at least 10 yards from where the play starts. If they do, they get a new set of four downs. If they fail, they give the ball to the other team.
2. How does a team score a touchdown?A touchdown happens when a player carries the ball into the opponent’s end zone, catches a pass there, or recovers a loose ball inside the end zone. It is worth six points.

Line of Scrimmage: The imaginary line separating the offense and defense before each play begins.
Turnover: The loss of possession of the ball to the opposing team, often due to downs expiring or fumbles.
Punt: A kick made by a player who drops the ball and kicks it before it hits the ground, usually on fourth down.
Fumble: When a player loses control of the ball while it is in play, resulting in a loose ball.