🏏

Lesson 3 - Catching and Team Fielding

Striking & Fielding Fundamentals

•

Year 1

•

Striking & Fielding

•

45 min

Big Question

How can fielders work together to catch the ball and stop players from scoring?

Learning Objectives

To develop catching skills over short distances to prevent scoring
To understand how to work collaboratively as fielders to stop runners from scoring points
To improve communication and teamwork skills in fielding situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved catching technique with bean bags and balls
Students will show understanding of basic fielding tactics and positioning
Students will communicate effectively with teammates during fielding activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls

1 per student (30)

Distributed around activity area for quick access

Alternative: Soft foam balls, tennis balls for advanced students

Soft Dodgeballs

15-20 balls

Range from large (easier) to small (challenging)

Alternative: Playground balls, bean bags for less confident students

Cones

22 cones

Mark circle boundaries and safe playing areas

Alternative: Markers, spots, or natural boundaries

Wall Space

1 wall section

Clear wall space for individual practice activities

Alternative: Rebound nets or partner work

Key Vocabulary

Catching

Using both hands to stop and hold a ball that is thrown to you

Fielders

The team players who try to catch the ball and stop the other team from scoring

Runner

The player who runs around the outside trying to get back to their starting position

Communication

Talking to your teammates to help work together better

Ready Position

Standing with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, hands out ready to catch

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching with large soft balls
Understanding of simple game rules
Awareness of personal space and safety

Current Skills

Catching balls and bean bags from short distances
Working as part of a fielding team
Quick passing and communication under pressure

Next Steps

Catching balls from longer distances
Strategic positioning as fielders
Throwing with greater accuracy and power

Milestone Indicators

Consistent catching with both hands

Quick release and accurate passing

Effective communication during team activities

Key Teaching Points

Always watch the ball all the way into your hands when catching
Use both hands together to create a secure catching position
Communication between team members is essential for successful fielding
Quick but accurate passing is more effective than rushing and dropping
Ready position with hands out helps preparation for catching
Gentle throws are more accurate and safer than hard throws
Working as a team means everyone has an important role to play

Common Misconceptions

That catching is only about hand strength - emphasise watching ball and positioning
That faster always means better - stress accuracy over speed in passing
That only the person with the ball is important - highlight role of all fielders
That dropped catches mean failure - frame as learning opportunities
That communication means shouting loudly - teach clear, helpful calls

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, movement breaks incorporated, simple clear instructions, positive reinforcement frequent

dyspraxia

Slower skill progression, larger equipment, extra practice time, step-by-step skill breakdown, patient encouragement

autism spectrum

Clear, predictable routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed, consistent language and instructions

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of activities, use sound cues for ball location, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations essential, use hand signals for instructions, written activity cards available, ensure good sight lines

physical disability

Seated catching variations, use larger/lighter balls, reduced throwing distances, wheelchair accessible space requirements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following verbal instructions, using communication vocabulary, developing speaking and listening skills

Maths

Counting backwards from 10 in Hot Potato, understanding of circles and sequences, timing and spatial awareness

Science

Understanding forces in throwing and catching, gravity effects on ball flight, hand-eye coordination development

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, good sportsmanship and fair play

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during circle activities for visibility, move around perimeter during individual practice

Observation Focus

Watch for correct catching technique, listen for positive communication, monitor safety throughout

Intervention Points

["Step in when catching technique needs correction", "Support students who are struggling with teamwork", "Adjust activity difficulty based on group success rates"]

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate new skills clearly before students attempt, use exaggerated movements for visibility, model positive attitudes throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Watch the ball!'
•'Two hands together!'
•'Quick but careful!'
•'Great teamwork!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 15m clear area, additional wall space beneficial for extension activities

Surface Check

Level surface free from holes, debris, or wet areas that could cause slips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all balls and bean bags for damage before use
•Ensure appropriate ball size for student age and ability
•Store equipment safely during activities to prevent trips

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during running activities
•Balls hitting students in face or body unexpectedly
•Trips and falls during movement activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear running paths marked with cones
•Appropriate spacing between students in all activities
•Use of soft foam balls reduces injury risk
•Controlled throwing speeds emphasised throughout

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during activities
•Monitor running areas for safe movement patterns
•Watch for appropriate ball selection and technique

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess need for first aid, clear space for assistance if required