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Lesson 6 - Game Play & Backstop Role

Tactical Striking

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Year 3

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we work as a team to score runs while stopping the opposition from scoring?

Learning Objectives

Use accurate throws to return a ball to the bases or bowler in game situations
Strike a bowled ball effectively to score runs for your team
Understand and demonstrate the role of a backstop in rounders

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved throwing accuracy under pressure
Students will apply batting skills in competitive game situations
Students will explain the importance of the backstop role and demonstrate it safely

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

8-10 bats (various sizes)

Distribute around pitch perimeter for quick retrieval

Alternative: Tennis balls, softer balls for SEND students

Cones

8-12 cones

Set up 4 pitches if space allows, or 2 larger pitches

Alternative: Cones, hoops, chalk circles

Bibs

30 (2 colours)

Pre-sorted into team sets before lesson

Alternative: Different coloured tops, wristbands

Key Vocabulary

Backstop

A fielding position behind the batter who stops balls that get past and returns them quickly

Round Robin

A competition format where each team plays every other team once

Accurate Throwing

Throwing the ball with speed and precision to reach the intended target

Game Pressure

The mental challenge of performing skills when the outcome matters

Tactical Decision

Choosing the best option based on the game situation

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of rounders basic rules and pitch layout
Experience of batting and bowling in rounders

Current Skills

Accurate throwing under game pressure
Consistent batting in competitive situations
Backstop role understanding and execution

Next Steps

Advanced tactical awareness in rounders
Leadership roles in organising teams
Umpiring and officiating skills

Milestone Indicators

Throws reach intended target 3 out of 5 times

Successfully runs to at least two bases when hitting

Demonstrates correct backstop positioning throughout game

Key Teaching Points

Backstop safety positioning is non-negotiable - always 3 metres minimum distance from batter
Focus on throwing accuracy before power - step into throws with opposite foot and follow through to target
Batting technique emphasises timing over power - watch ball contact and maintain balance throughout swing
Game application allows students to experience real pressure while practicing skills in authentic context
Positive team dynamics and sportsmanship are equally important as technical skill development
Continuous formative assessment through observation provides immediate feedback for improvement
Differentiation ensures every student can succeed while being appropriately challenged at their level

Common Misconceptions

Backstops can stand closer to get balls faster - WRONG: Safety distance is mandatory for player protection
Harder throwing is always better - WRONG: Accuracy and appropriate force for distance is more effective
Batting is just about hitting hard - WRONG: Timing, placement and technique are more important than power
Only the best players should be backstop - WRONG: All students should experience this important role
Winning is the most important outcome - WRONG: Skill development and positive teamwork are primary goals

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries and expectations, positive reinforcement for focus and effort

dyspraxia

Larger equipment options available, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time for skill development, step-by-step visual guides

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure with visual schedule, quiet zones available for breaks, consistent rules and expectations throughout

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and large visual markers for bases, provide verbal descriptions of field positions, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations and hand signals, written instruction cards available, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Seated batting options available, modified throwing distances, wheelchair accessible field positions, alternative roles such as scorer

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, communication skills during team discussions and tactical planning

Maths

Counting runs and points in tournament scoring system, measuring safe distances for backstop positioning, calculating team standings in round-robin format

Science

Understanding forces in throwing and batting techniques, exploring momentum and energy transfer when ball contacts bat

Geography

Spatial awareness of field positioning, understanding of direction and distance in tactical play

PSHE

Leadership skills during team captaincy, resilience when team is losing, managing emotions during competitive situations

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Mobile positioning between tournament pitches to monitor backstop safety and provide tactical guidance

Observation Focus

Primary focus on backstop safety distances, secondary on throwing accuracy and game flow

Intervention Points

Immediately correct unsafe backstop positioning, assist with rule disputes, provide tactical guidance during team huddles

Demonstration Notes

Model enthusiasm and positive coaching throughout, demonstrate correct techniques during natural breaks in play

Verbal Cues

•'Backstop - check your distance!'
•'Throw to the nearest base!'
•'Watch the ball all the way!'
•'Communicate with your team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 30m for two tournament pitches, or 25m x 20m for single pitch

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes or hazards, suitable for running and safe stopping

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all bats for cracks or splinters before use
•Ensure balls are properly inflated and not damaged
•Verify cones and bases are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes from batting
•Collisions between runners and fielders
•Backstop positioning too close to batter
•Slips and falls during running

Risk Mitigation

•Mandatory 3-metre backstop safety zone clearly marked
•Consistent batting direction with clear safe zones
•Running lanes clearly defined to prevent collisions
•Gentle bowling only with controlled ball speeds

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Constant monitoring of backstop positioning
•Position for clear view of both tournament pitches
•Active movement between games to ensure safety

Emergency Procedures

Immediate stop signal for all activity, assess injury severity, appropriate first aid response, clear evacuation routes maintained