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Lesson 4 - Underarm Throws & Running Talk

Team Challenge Cricket

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Year 1

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Striking & Fielding

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Big Question

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

Tennis Balls

1 per pair (15)

Distributed around equipment area for easy collection

Alternative: Bean bags, soft cricket balls

Cones

30-40 mixed colours

Half set up as domes, half as dishes for warm-up

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, rope spots

Hoops

Placed at 6m distance from throwing lines

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, cones in squares

Cricket Equipment

8-10

Available at batting stations

Alternative: Short tennis rackets, paddle bats, foam bats

Tees

Positioned in central batting area

Alternative: Large cones, traffic cones, improvised tees

Key Vocabulary

Underarm throw

Throwing technique where the ball is released below shoulder height with an underhand motion

Batting partners

Two players who work together when batting, communicating to score runs

Run out

When fielders get the ball to the wickets before a batsman reaches safety

Accumulate

To build up or collect runs by running back and forth between wickets

Communication

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

Smooth pickup and release of ball without fumbling

Clear and decisive calling between batting partners

Consistent safe movement in defined areas

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