Lesson 4 - Underarm Throws & Running Talk
Team Challenge Cricket
•Year 1
•Striking & Fielding
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How can we work together as batting partners to score runs safely and successfully?
Learning Objectives
- To develop accurate underarm throwing technique with one hand pickup
- To understand and use clear communication when batting together
- To work safely and cooperatively within defined spaces
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved one-handed ball pickup and underarm throwing accuracy
- Students will use appropriate calls ('Yes'/'No') when deciding whether to run
- Students will show safe movement and cooperation during partner activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed around equipment area for easy collection
Alternative: Bean bags, soft cricket balls
Half set up as domes, half as dishes for warm-up
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, rope spots
Placed at 6m distance from throwing lines
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, cones in squares
Available at batting stations
Alternative: Short tennis rackets, paddle bats, foam bats
Positioned in central batting area
Alternative: Large cones, traffic cones, improvised tees
Key Vocabulary
Throwing technique where the ball is released below shoulder height with an underhand motion
Two players who work together when batting, communicating to score runs
When fielders get the ball to the wickets before a batsman reaches safety
To build up or collect runs by running back and forth between wickets
Talking clearly to your partner to make decisions about running
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic underarm throwing with two hands
- Understanding of taking turns and following rules
- Experience of simple running and catching games
Current Skills
- One-handed ball pickup and release
- Partner communication during batting
- Coordinated running between wickets
Next Steps
- More complex fielding positions and strategies
- Batting with different types of bowls and strikes
- Team tactics in small-sided cricket games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Emphasise opposite foot forward for underarm throwing accuracy
- Practice one-handed pickup with scooping action from shoelaces level
- Develop clear, immediate communication between batting partners
- Focus on safe movement and spatial awareness throughout
- Build confidence through progressive skill development and positive partnerships
- Link activities to real cricket contexts to enhance understanding
- Encourage backing up and teamwork in fielding situations
Common Misconceptions
- Children often use same foot as throwing arm - correct with 'opposite foot forward' coaching
- Students may try to pick up ball too high - teach 'scoop from shoelaces' technique
- Batters might not call immediately after hitting - practice instant decision making
- Fielders may both chase the ball - clarify specific roles for each fielder
- Children might think they must stop after one run - explain multiple runs are possible
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries, use movement breaks effectively
dyspraxia
- Allow extra practice time, use larger equipment, simplify coordination requirements, provide step-by-step guidance
autism spectrum
- Provide clear visual schedule, allow processing time for instructions, offer quiet space if overwhelmed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of activities, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals for start/stop, demonstrate all instructions, provide written activity cards
physical disability
- Modify throwing distances, allow seated participation, provide larger/lighter equipment as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following instructions, clear communication vocabulary, using voice projection for calls
Maths
Counting successful throws and catches, measuring distances, timing activities, adding up runs scored
Science
Understanding forces in throwing, body movement and balance, trajectory of balls
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, handling disappointment, celebrating others' success, building confidence
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around the area to observe all students, position at corner for maximum visibility during games
Observation Focus
Watch for safe movement, proper technique development, and positive communication between partners
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe play occurs, technique needs immediate correction, or conflicts arise between students
Demonstration Notes
Use students as demonstrators when possible, exaggerate movements for visibility, link skills to real cricket contexts
Verbal Cues
- •'Opposite foot forward!'
- •'Scoop it up like from your laces!'
- •'Call it loud and clear!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear area, suitable for running and ball activities
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, adequate grip for running and stopping
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check balls are in good condition with no cracks
- •Ensure bats are appropriate size for Year 1 students
- •Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage
- •Check hoops are stable and won't slide
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during running activities
- •Being struck by thrown balls
- •Tripping over equipment
- •Overexertion during active periods
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and running lanes established
- •Adequate spacing between activity groups
- •Controlled ball throwing in designated directions
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to see all activity groups during games
- •Move between stations during skill practice
- •Monitor for fatigue and provide rest as needed
Emergency Procedures
Stop signal established, first aid kit available, clear access routes maintained