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Lesson 1 - Fielding Positions and Ball Control

Tactical Striking

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Year 3

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Rounders

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45 min

Big Question

How can smart fielding positions and quick reactions help teams defend effectively in rounders?

Learning Objectives

Hit a stationary ball into space away from fielders
Retrieve and throw the ball accurately as a fielder using correct technique
Understand how fielders work together to restrict batters' runs

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate correct fielding positions (long barrier, backstop)
Students will show improved accuracy when hitting balls into space
Students will explain how fielders can work as a team to reduce scoring opportunities

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

9 (one per 3-4 students)

Check for cracks or splinters before use

Alternative: Tennis rackets, cricket bats, or paddle bats

Tennis Balls

15-20

Use softer balls for beginners

Alternative: Soft foam balls for safety

Dish Cones

Position at appropriate height for Year 3 students

Alternative: Upturned cones, marker spots

Bibs

15-20

Ensure clear distinction between teams

Alternative: Different coloured bands or shirts

Key Vocabulary

Long Barrier

A fielding position with one knee down, creating a barrier to stop the ball

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to collect missed balls

Fielding

The team trying to prevent the batting team from scoring runs

Rounder

A complete circuit of all four posts, scoring maximum points

Strategic Hitting

Deliberately hitting the ball to areas where fielders are not positioned

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of simple games with batting and fielding
Ability to follow safety rules with equipment

Current Skills

Strategic hitting into space
Specialist fielding positions
Team defensive tactics

Next Steps

Bowling technique and accuracy
Advanced batting techniques
Full game tactics and strategies

Milestone Indicators

Students choose appropriate fielding position for situation

Consistent accuracy in hitting ball to intended areas

Quick transition between offensive and defensive roles

Key Teaching Points

Body positioning is crucial - get behind the ball's path before attempting to field
Communication between fielders prevents collisions and ensures ball coverage
Quality technique matters more than speed - secure the ball before throwing
Strategic hitting requires field awareness - look before you strike
Long barrier and backstop positions have specific purposes - choose the right tool
Teamwork in fielding creates defensive strength - support your teammates
Practice builds confidence - repetition leads to automatic responses under pressure

Common Misconceptions

Thinking fielding is just about catching - positioning and communication are equally important
Believing harder hitting always scores more runs - accuracy and placement are more effective
Assuming all fielding positions are the same - each has specific techniques and uses
Thinking individual brilliance wins games - rounders success depends on team coordination
Believing you can't improve fielding - technique and positioning can be developed through practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with frequent position changes, clear boundaries and expectations, regular positive feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified movement patterns, extra demonstration time, partner support for complex skills

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet zone available for breaks, consistent equipment placement

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations with hand signals, written instruction cards available, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Seated fielding positions available, larger softer balls, reduced throwing distances, alternative scoring methods

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, giving clear instructions to teammates, listening skills during coaching

Maths

Angles and direction when hitting ball strategically, counting successful catches and hits, measuring distances between bases

Science

Forces and motion in ball flight, friction between ball and ground affecting fielding, body systems working during physical activity

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning on field, directional language (left, right, forward, back), mapping movement patterns

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation in fielding units, resilience when learning new skills, leadership during coaching activities

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of activities for optimal visibility, position near potential risk areas during games

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique execution, safe equipment handling, positive team interactions, and student engagement levels

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe behaviour, provide technique corrections when quality drops, facilitate if team dynamics become negative

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for visibility, show incorrect technique first then correct version, involve students in demonstrations where safe

Verbal Cues

•'Body behind the ball!'
•'Close the gate - no gaps!'
•'Soft hands for catching!'
•'Look for space before hitting!'
•'Talk to your teammates!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 35m outdoor space or large sports hall

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery patches

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rounders bats for cracks, splinters, or loose grips before use
•Ensure balls are appropriate softness for age group
•Verify cones and markers are stable and visible
•Inspect bibs for tears that could cause tripping

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body from batting or throwing
•Collisions between students during game play
•Trips and falls from uneven ground or equipment
•Strain injuries from improper throwing technique

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and enforced throughout
•Controlled batting with emphasis on accuracy over power
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic activities
•Adequate spacing maintained between activity areas
•Proper warm-up and cool-down to prevent muscle strain

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students during activities
•Monitor high-activity areas particularly during game application
•Ensure students follow safety rules for equipment handling
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required