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Lesson 4 - Striking & Long Barrier Technique

Progressive Cricket Play

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Year 1

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Striking & Fielding

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our whole body to strike the ball to leg side and create a strong barrier to stop it?

Learning Objectives

To develop the technique for striking a ball to leg from a short delivery
To learn how to create and use a long barrier effectively
To practise backing up teammates in fielding situations

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to strike a ball with a high backlift to leg side
Students will demonstrate correct long barrier technique with body positioning
Students will understand the importance of communication and backing up in fielding

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

1 per pair (15)

Distribute around playing area perimeter

Alternative: Soft practice balls, bean bags

Cricket Equipment

1 per group of 5 (6 bats)

Size 4 or 5 bats suitable for Year 1

Alternative: Tennis racquets, rounders bats

Cones

20 (mixed colours)

Half face down (dishes), half right way up (domes) for warm-up

Alternative: Spots, markers

Stumps

6 sets

Mark bowling and batting creases

Alternative: Cones, skittles

Tees

For students who need static ball support

Alternative: Upturned cones

Key Vocabulary

High backlift

Lifting the bat high behind the body before striking the ball

Long barrier

A fielding technique where the body is turned sideways to create a wall to stop the ball

Leg side

The side of the cricket pitch that corresponds to the batsman's legs

Backing up

Supporting a teammate by positioning behind them in case they miss the ball

Ready position

Alert fielding stance with knees bent, hands ready, eyes on the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of ready position
Experience with simple striking activities

Current Skills

High backlift batting technique
Long barrier fielding method
Communication and backing up

Next Steps

Striking to different areas of the field
Advanced fielding positions and tactics
Game situations with multiple skills combined

Milestone Indicators

Consistent high backlift before striking

Body turns sideways for long barrier

Clear vocal communication during fielding

Key Teaching Points

High backlift is essential for effective striking to leg side
Long barrier requires sideways body position with one knee down
Communication ('Mine!') and backing up prevents fielding errors
Step back and across creates space for leg side striking
Striking down keeps ball low and controllable
Safety awareness must be maintained throughout all activities
Self-assessment develops metacognitive awareness

Common Misconceptions

Students think they must hit the ball hard rather than with good technique
Believing long barrier means just putting hands down, not turning body
Thinking backing up means standing close instead of providing depth
Assuming striking to leg means swinging across body rather than stepping across

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Larger equipment, simplified technique focus, extra practice time, step-by-step breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule, quiet zone available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal cues for positioning, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards

physical disability

Seated striking option, modified long barrier from wheelchair, adapted equipment

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances for field setup, counting points in competitions, timing activities

Science

Forces in throwing and striking, angles of ball trajectory, body mechanics in movement

Geography

Directional awareness (leg side vs off side), spatial positioning on field

PSHE

Teamwork and communication, fair play and sporting behaviour, self-assessment and reflection

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during demonstrations, circulate during practice to provide individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct long barrier body position, high backlift in striking, and effective communication

Intervention Points

Step in if safety concerns arise, technique needs correction, or groups need additional support

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, slow demonstrations initially, then normal speed. Emphasise key technique points visually

Verbal Cues

•'High backlift!'
•'Step back and across!'
•'Turn your body sideways!'
•'Call Mine!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for multiple groups, clear boundaries

Surface Check

Dry, even surface suitable for running and diving for balls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check bats for damage and appropriate size
•Tennis balls inflated to correct pressure
•Cones with no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collision between players
•Being struck by ball or bat
•Slips when diving for balls
•Overexertion in competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries between groups established
•Safe distances maintained between bowler and batsman
•Proper technique taught for all skills
•Regular safety reminders throughout lesson

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Circulate between activities checking technique
•Monitor energy levels and competitiveness

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, call for medical support if needed