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Lesson 8 - Running Bases to Score Points

Ball Control Basics

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Year 2

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Striking & Fielding

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Big Question

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

Balls

One per group for throwing activities

Alternative: Small soft balls, tennis balls

Cones

Sets of 4 to create base squares for each group

Alternative: Hoops, markers, chalk circles

Hoops

One per group as central target

Alternative: Large cones, buckets, marked circles

Rackets

Age-appropriate size for Year 2 students

Alternative: Cricket bats, tennis rackets, padded bats

Tennis Balls

One per group for striking activities

Alternative: Soft play balls, foam balls

Key Vocabulary

Base running

Running around the outside of markers in the correct order to score points

Tactics

Smart choices about where to hit the ball or how fast to run

Fielding

Working as a team to collect the ball and stop the batter scoring

Batter

The person who hits or kicks the ball to start the game

Bowler

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

Consistent clockwise base running

Stopping immediately when ball reaches target

Accurate score recall after multiple rounds

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