Lesson 1 - Striking and Basic Fielding
Teamwork Foundations
•Reception
•Striking & Fielding
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How can we work together to strike a ball and field it safely?
Learning Objectives
- To develop basic striking skills using a tee
- To understand the concept of running to score runs
- To work cooperatively in fielding activities
Key Outcomes
- Students will strike a ball off a tee with control
- Students will understand running between markers to score
- Students will field a ball safely using both hands
Equipment & Resources Required
Check for any damage, ensure appropriate size for Reception students
Alternative: Small cricket bats, table tennis bats
Use softer balls for safety with young children
Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags for easier catching
Ensure cones are stable and not cracked
Alternative: Markers, spots, hoops
Adjust height for Reception students (20-30cm)
Alternative: Large cones, traffic cones with flat tops
For dribbling activities, ensure smooth edges
Alternative: Bean bags, small balls
Key Vocabulary
Hitting the ball with a bat or racket
A stand that holds the ball still for hitting
Collecting and returning the ball to stop runs
The line you must touch with your bat to be safe
Points scored by running between the markers
Hitting with the front of the bat or racket
Hitting with the back of the bat or racket
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running and movement skills
- Simple hand-eye coordination activities
- Following simple instructions
Current Skills
- Striking a stationary ball with control
- Understanding running to score points
- Basic fielding using both hands
Next Steps
- Striking moving balls
- More complex fielding positions
- Understanding when to run and when to stay
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always use nearest hand to pick up ball, then transfer to other hand for placing
- Bat must touch OVER the crease line, not on it, and slide on final run
- Fielders work as a team forming straight line behind the target cone
- Strike the ball with control off the tee, keeping eyes on ball throughout contact
- Use both forehand and backhand faces of racket for different situations
- Safety first - controlled movements and awareness of others at all times
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking you need to run your feet over the crease line - correction: only bat needs to go over
- Believing you must use only one hand for all ball handling - correction: use both hands for better control
- Assuming fielders can spread out anywhere - correction: work as team in straight line formation
- Thinking harder hits are always better - correction: control and placement more important than power
- Believing the crease line is where you must stop - correction: it's a safety line to touch over with bat
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement for focus
dyspraxia
- Larger, slower balls, simplified sequences, extra practice time, adult modelling of movements
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual timetable of activities, quiet zones available, predictable transition signals
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, tactile exploration of crease lines
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for start/stop, written instruction cards, partner support
physical disability
- Seated striking options, modified running distances, alternative to running such as wheelchair racing, lighter equipment
Cross-Curricular Links
Science
Forces when striking ball, friction when ball rolls on ground, body movements and balance
Geography
Directional language - forwards, backwards, left, right, understanding of space and positioning
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, fair play, managing emotions when winning or losing, helping others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position with clear view of all activities, move around groups during practice
Observation Focus
Watch for safe movement, correct technique development, positive social interactions
Intervention Points
Step in when safety is compromised, technique needs correction, or conflicts arise
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate slowly first, then at normal speed, use students to help demonstrate good technique
Verbal Cues
- •'Nearest hand picks up first!'
- •'Touch your bat over the line!'
- •'Work together as a team!'
- •'Watch the ball onto your racket!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 20m clear space, indoor hall or outdoor hard surface
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from debris, adequate grip for running
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check rackets for cracks or splinters
- •Ensure balls are not over-inflated
- •Verify cones are stable and crack-free
- •Check tees are appropriate height and stable
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during running activities
- •Struck by ball during striking practice
- •Slips during direction changes
- •Equipment-related injuries from damaged items
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and running lanes established
- •Safe distances between striking and fielding areas
- •Controlled speeds for all activities
- •Adult supervision of striking practice
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all groups during striking
- •Monitor spacing during running activities
- •Ensure safe equipment handling throughout
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, apply appropriate first aid, contact office if required