Lesson 5 - Fielding Techniques
Cricket Skills & Team Play
•Year 4
•Cricket
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can I become a defensive wall that no ball can get past?
Learning Objectives
- To master two-handed pick up technique for approaching balls
- To develop short barrier technique for close ball stopping
- To apply fielding skills in competitive game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate accurate two-handed pick up with correct body positioning
- Students will execute short barrier technique with foot and hand coordination
- Students will select appropriate fielding technique based on ball trajectory and speed
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed to pairs at start of skill development
Alternative: Soft cricket balls, foam balls for safety
Stored safely when not in use, one per batting pair
Alternative: Rounders bats, plastic cricket bats
Set up around playing area for game activities
Alternative: Cones arranged as stumps, target posts
Used for boundaries, goals, and distance markers throughout lesson
Alternative: Markers, spot markers
Key Vocabulary
A fielding technique where both hands scoop up a rolling ball while moving towards it
A defensive fielding technique using foot as backup barrier behind hands
Moving your body to stay in line with a moving ball
A player whose job is to stop the ball and prevent runs
The fielder who stands behind the stumps to collect the ball
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic catching and throwing skills from previous cricket lessons
- Understanding of overarm and underarm throwing techniques
- Basic movement and tracking skills
Current Skills
- Two-handed pick up technique for approaching balls
- Short barrier technique for defensive fielding
- Decision making for technique selection
Next Steps
- Advanced fielding positions and tactical awareness
- Wicket keeping skills and stumping techniques
- Team fielding strategies and communication
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Tracking the ball with eyes and body movement is essential for successful fielding
- Feet positioned behind the ball provide security and control
- Two-handed collection with little fingers together ensures reliable ball handling
- Short barrier technique uses foot as backup safety barrier
- Technique selection depends on ball speed and fielder position
- Immediate reaction to ball release improves fielding success
- Communication between fielders enhances team performance
Common Misconceptions
- Students thinking one technique works for all situations - emphasise appropriate selection
- Believing faster collection is always better - stress control and accuracy first
- Assuming fielding is less important than batting - highlight defensive game value
- Thinking feet position doesn't matter - demonstrate security benefits
- Expecting immediate perfection - encourage practice and gradual improvement
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, immediate positive feedback, movement between activities
dyspraxia
- Simplified coordination requirements, extra practice time, larger targets and equipment
autism spectrum
- Clear visual routines, quiet zones available, predictable activity structure
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal cues for ball location, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations, clear hand signals for game starts, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Modified distances for throwing, larger equipment if needed, seated fielding options
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring 7-metre distances, counting runs scored, calculating success rates, understanding angles for throwing
Science
Forces in ball movement, friction with ground surface, body mechanics for efficient movement
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, direction of ball travel, understanding field layout
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, handling success and failure, communication skills, sportsmanship and fair play
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central location with clear sightlines to all students, move between groups during practice
Observation Focus
Watch for correct foot positioning, safe throwing techniques, and positive interactions
Intervention Points
Step in for technique corrections, safety concerns, or behaviour management
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for visibility, repeat key techniques multiple times, involve confident students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Feet behind the ball!'
- •'Track it with your eyes!'
- •'Two hands, little fingers together!'
- •'Sideways foot for barrier!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m open area with clear boundaries and run-off space
Surface Check
Level playing surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Tennis balls checked for proper condition and firmness
- •Cones inspected for cracks or sharp edges
- •Cricket bats stored safely when not in use
- •Wickets positioned with adequate throwing clearance
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes from wild throws or deflections
- •Collisions during running activities
- •Slips and falls on uneven surfaces
- •Equipment-related injuries from improper handling
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear throwing zones established with adequate spacing
- •Controlled ball speeds appropriate for skill level
- •Progressive skill building from simple to complex
- •Constant supervision during high-activity games
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all groups during games
- •Monitor high-activity areas closely
- •Ensure proper technique to prevent injury
- •Intervene immediately for unsafe behaviour
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury severity, provide appropriate first aid, complete incident documentation if required