Lesson 8 - Running Bases to Score Points
Ball Control Basics
•Year 2
•Striking & Fielding
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How can we use smart tactics to score more points when running around bases?
Learning Objectives
- To be able to run around bases to score points
- To use simple tactics when batting and fielding
- To remember and track the score in simple games
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate confident base running technique
- Students will apply simple tactics in striking and fielding situations
- Students will accurately track and recall game scores
Equipment & Resources Required
One per group for throwing activities
Alternative: Small soft balls, tennis balls
Sets of 4 to create base squares for each group
Alternative: Hoops, markers, chalk circles
One per group as central target
Alternative: Large cones, buckets, marked circles
Age-appropriate size for Year 2 students
Alternative: Cricket bats, tennis rackets, padded bats
One per group for striking activities
Alternative: Soft play balls, foam balls
Key Vocabulary
Running around the outside of markers in the correct order to score points
Smart choices about where to hit the ball or how fast to run
Working as a team to collect the ball and stop the batter scoring
The person who hits or kicks the ball to start the game
The person who sends the ball to the batter to hit
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running and stopping on command
- Simple ball handling and catching skills
- Understanding of team games and taking turns
Current Skills
- Base running technique and direction
- Tactical awareness in striking games
- Score tracking and memory skills
Next Steps
- Advanced base running with stopping and starting
- Complex tactical decisions in game situations
- Leadership roles in team games
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always run around the outside of bases in clockwise direction
- Fielders work as a team - one collects, others position at target
- Count points out loud so everyone can track scores
- Quick transitions from hitting/kicking to immediate running
- Safety first - controlled movements and gentle techniques
- Every role has importance in striking and fielding games
- Tactical thinking about ball placement and fielding positions
Common Misconceptions
- Running through the middle of bases instead of around outside - correct with 'race track' analogy
- All fielders chasing the ball instead of working as team - emphasise role allocation
- Thinking faster is always better than tactical placement - discuss smart choices
- Believing some roles are more important than others - celebrate all contributions
- Expecting immediate success with striking - emphasise practice and improvement
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular feedback and movement opportunities
dyspraxia
- Larger, softer equipment, reduced complexity in initial games, extra practice time for coordination
autism spectrum
- Clear routine for role changes, visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured equipment, verbal cues for positioning, buddy system for base running direction
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of techniques, hand signals for game instructions, written role cards
physical disability
- Seated striking option, modified base distances, adapted equipment for better grip
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting points around bases, tracking scores, understanding sequences and patterns
Science
Forces in throwing and striking, gravity effects on ball flight, energy transfer
Geography
Directional awareness, spatial concepts, understanding of clockwise movement
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, leadership in different roles, resilience when challenges arise
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter to observe all groups, position centrally for demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for tactical development, safe technique, and positive teamwork
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe technique, poor sportsmanship, or confusion about rules
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for base running direction, emphasise safety in all techniques
Verbal Cues
- •'Around the outside!'
- •'Work as a team!'
- •'Watch the ball!'
- •'Quick and safe!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 25m x 20m, clear of obstacles, with defined boundaries
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, adequate grip for running and stopping
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check rackets have no damage to handle or head
- •Ensure balls are properly inflated and undamaged
- •Cones positioned securely and visible
- •Hoops laid flat and stable
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during base running
- •Ball strikes from hitting/throwing
- •Trips over equipment
- •Racket contact with others
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear group boundaries established and maintained
- •Controlled striking power appropriate for space
- •Emphasis on outside base running only
- •Safe equipment handling procedures taught
- •Immediate stop signals established
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all groups
- •Monitor high-activity base running areas
- •Ensure safe distances between groups
- •Watch for equipment misuse
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if needed