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Lesson 1 - Striking and Basic Fielding

Teamwork Foundations

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Reception

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Striking & Fielding

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1h 6min

Big Question

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

Short tennis rackets or unihoc sticks

1 per student (30)

Check for any damage, ensure appropriate size for Reception students

Alternative: Small cricket bats, table tennis bats

Tennis Balls

1 per 2 students (15)

Use softer balls for safety with young children

Alternative: Foam balls, bean bags for easier catching

Cones

4-6 pieces

Ensure cones are stable and not cracked

Alternative: Markers, spots, hoops

Tees

6-8

Adjust height for Reception students (20-30cm)

Alternative: Large cones, traffic cones with flat tops

Puck

10-15

For dribbling activities, ensure smooth edges

Alternative: Bean bags, small balls

Key Vocabulary

Striking

Hitting the ball with a bat or racket

Tee

A stand that holds the ball still for hitting

Fielding

Collecting and returning the ball to stop runs

Crease

The line you must touch with your bat to be safe

Runs

Points scored by running between the markers

Forehand

Hitting with the front of the bat or racket

Backhand

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

Consistent contact with ball off tee

Understands crease concept

Can work cooperatively in small groups

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