Lesson 2 - Underarm Bowling and Fielding
Tactical Striking
•Year 3
•Rounders
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How can we work together as a team to get the ball back to the bowler quickly and accurately?
Learning Objectives
- To bowl an underarm ball with consistency at a target
- To work collaboratively to return the ball to the bowler efficiently
- To understand the importance of accurate throwing in fielding
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved underarm bowling technique with stepping action
- Students will show effective teamwork in fielding situations
- Students will be able to explain tactics for quick ball return
Equipment & Resources Required
Store in central box for starter activity, then distribute to pairs
Alternative: Bean bags, soft play balls, rounders balls
Used as targets and for marking collection/scoring areas
Alternative: Bean bags, hoops, markers
Two hoops per team for cone collection game
Alternative: Cones in circles, marked areas with chalk
Central storage for balls in starter activity
Alternative: PE basket, large hoop
One per batting team, check for damage before use
Alternative: Tennis rackets, cricket bats, paddle bats
Key Vocabulary
A bowling technique where the ball is released from below shoulder height with an underhand motion
Taking a step forward with the opposite foot to your throwing arm as you release the ball
The specific area or person you are aiming to hit with your throw
The team that tries to stop the ball and return it to the bowler
Working together as a team to achieve a common goal
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic underarm throwing technique
- Simple catching with two hands
- Understanding of team games and taking turns
Current Skills
- Underarm bowling with stepping action
- Collaborative fielding and ball return
- Target accuracy in throwing
Next Steps
- Overarm bowling techniques
- Advanced fielding positions and strategy
- Batting techniques and scoring runs
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Stepping with opposite foot is crucial for accurate underarm bowling
- Pendulum arm swing creates consistent ball release and power
- Eye contact with target throughout bowling action improves accuracy
- Fielding teamwork through passing is more efficient than individual chasing
- Clear communication between team members prevents confusion and improves performance
- Maintaining technique under game pressure requires practice and concentration
- Collaborative problem-solving develops both physical and cognitive skills
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: Harder throwing means more accurate bowling. Correction: Controlled technique with proper stepping creates better accuracy
- Misconception: The fastest runner should always chase the ball in fielding. Correction: Strategic positioning and passing is more effective
- Misconception: Underarm bowling is easier than overarm. Correction: Underarm requires specific technique and practice for consistency
- Misconception: Individual skill is more important than teamwork. Correction: Successful rounders requires both individual technique and collaborative strategy
- Misconception: Winning is only about speed and power. Correction: Technique, tactics, and teamwork are equally important for success
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear physical boundaries, regular movement breaks, specific role assignments
dyspraxia
- Larger equipment for easier handling, reduced complexity in multi-step tasks, extra practice time, simplified movement patterns
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available, predictable routines, advance warning of activity changes
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls for better visibility, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for spatial guidance
hearing impairment
- Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards for complex rules
physical disability
- Seated bowling variations, modified distances, adapted equipment (larger balls, shorter throws), alternative scoring methods
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting cones collected for scoring, estimating distances for bowling accuracy, measuring throwing power needed for different ranges
Science
Understanding forces in bowling action, friction effects on ball movement, body systems during exercise and cool-down
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, directional language (forward, backward, left, right), mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and collaboration, managing emotions during competition, resilience when facing challenges, leadership skills development
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at corner of activity area with clear sight lines to all students and teams
Observation Focus
Watch for correct stepping action in bowling, effective communication in fielding, safe movement around activity areas
Intervention Points
Step in when technique is unsafe, when teams need tactical guidance, or when conflicts arise
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for bowling technique, demonstrate fielding tactics with clear spatial awareness, show positive sporting behaviour consistently
Verbal Cues
- •'Step and swing!'
- •'Aim for the hands!'
- •'Talk to your team!'
- •'Pass, don't run!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area or large indoor hall, clear of obstacles and hazards
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas that could cause falls
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check balls are properly inflated and free from damage
- •Inspect bats for cracks or splinters before use
- •Ensure cones and hoops have no sharp edges or broken parts
- •Verify all equipment is age-appropriate size and weight
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between students during running activities
- •Ball strikes to face or body during throwing/catching
- •Tripping over equipment or other students
- •Overexertion during high-energy activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for all activities
- •Adequate spacing between teams and individuals
- •Progressive skill building from simple to complex
- •Regular safety reminders and rule reinforcement
- •Teacher positioned for maximum visibility of all students
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position at corner of activity area for full visibility
- •Move continuously between groups during team games
- •Monitor for signs of fatigue or frustration
- •Watch for students not following safety guidelines
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury severity, provide appropriate first aid, contact school office if serious injury occurs