Lesson 2 - Underarm Bowling Accuracy
Technical Mastery Focus
•Year 3
•Cricket
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we bowl accurately and consistently to help our batting partner score runs?
Learning Objectives
- To develop underarm bowling technique with consistent accuracy
- To apply bowling skills effectively in competitive game situations
- To work collaboratively as fielders to support team bowling efforts
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved underarm bowling accuracy when targeting specific areas
- Students will show consistent bowling technique during game-based activities
- Students will work effectively as a team to retrieve and return the ball to the bowler
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed around activity areas, extras available for quick replacement
Alternative: Soft cricket balls, foam balls
Set up in matching pairs at varying distances across the playing area
Alternative: Coloured markers, bean bags
Positioned as bowling targets at appropriate distances for Year 3 students
Alternative: Target circles marked with chalk, skittles
Used as wickets for game situations
Alternative: Cones, skittles, chalk marks
Key Vocabulary
A bowling technique where the arm swings from below the shoulder in an underhand motion
The backward motion of the bowling arm before releasing the ball forward
The specific area or position where the bowler aims to deliver the ball
Players who work together to collect the ball and return it to the bowler
Being able to repeat the same bowling technique accurately multiple times
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching skills
- Understanding of taking turns and following simple game rules
- Ability to work cooperatively in small groups
Current Skills
- Underarm bowling technique with stepping and pointing
- Accurate bowling to enable batting opportunities
- Collaborative fielding and ball retrieval skills
Next Steps
- Developing bowling variations (speed, bounce, placement)
- Understanding bowling strategies in competitive games
- Advanced fielding positions and communication
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Step forward with opposite foot to bowling hand for balance and accuracy
- Point non-bowling hand at target to help with aiming and body alignment
- Use smooth backswing action like a pendulum to generate controlled power
- Follow through with bowling hand pointing at target after ball release
- Bowl accurately to enable batting success rather than trying to prevent hitting
- Work as a team when fielding to quickly return ball to bowler
- Focus on quality technique development over immediate accuracy results
Common Misconceptions
- Believing bowling should be as difficult as possible to prevent batting success
- Thinking more power always equals better bowling accuracy
- Assuming fielders should work individually rather than as a coordinated team
- Expecting immediate accuracy without focusing on proper technique development
- Misunderstanding that both bowlers and batters can score points in the game
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent position changes through rotations, clear short-term goals (5 bowling attempts), immediate feedback and praise for good technique
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for technique development, larger equipment where possible, simplified movement patterns, buddy support system
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure for rotations, visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet zones available if needed during competitive games
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and targets, provide verbal cues for bowling direction, ensure clear audio descriptions of demonstrations
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations extensively, clear hand signals for game instructions, written key points displayed prominently
physical disability
- Shorter bowling distances, larger targets, seated bowling options, modified catching positions for batters
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting scores and runs, measuring bowling distances, calculating team totals, understanding addition and subtraction in scoring
Science
Forces in bowling - how backswing creates power, trajectory and gravity affecting ball flight, friction when ball bounces
Geography
Direction and compass points for bowling accuracy, spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of angles
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation in fielding, resilience when bowling accuracy improves gradually, respect for opponents and fair play
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move constantly between groups during practice and games to provide coaching and ensure safety
Observation Focus
Watch for correct bowling technique, effective teamwork, and positive sporting behaviour
Intervention Points
Step in if students abandon technique for power, if safety issues arise, or if cooperation breaks down
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements to show technique clearly, demonstrate both successful and unsuccessful examples for comparison
Verbal Cues
- •'Remember your four magic points!'
- •'Bowl to help your batter succeed!'
- •'Work together as a fielding team!'
- •'Quality technique over power!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m area with additional space for multiple game zones
Surface Check
Level grass or sports hall surface free from holes, debris, and moisture
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check tennis balls are in good condition without cracks
- •Ensure stumps/targets are stable and positioned safely
- •Verify hoops are flat against ground to prevent tripping
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes from poor bowling technique
- •Collisions during fielding and running
- •Tripping over equipment or in holes
- •Overexertion during competitive games
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established between game areas
- •Emphasis on controlled bowling technique rather than power
- •Fielders positioned safely away from bowling line
- •Regular equipment checks and safe storage protocols
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe multiple game areas simultaneously
- •Monitor bowling technique to prevent dangerous deliveries
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
- •Ensure fair play and positive behaviour
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact school procedures if needed