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Lesson 5 - Backstop Positioning Tips

Game Intelligence Development

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Year 4

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Rounders

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45 min

Big Question

How can a backstop make split-second decisions that could change the outcome of the entire game?

Learning Objectives

To demonstrate the correct backstop standing position with feet shoulder-width apart and hands ready
To make quick tactical decisions about where to throw the ball as a backstop
To successfully fulfil the backstop role in competitive game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to maintain proper backstop stance throughout gameplay
Students will consistently make appropriate throwing decisions based on game situations
Students will understand the critical importance of the backstop position in rounders strategy

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

1 per student (30)

Distributed in equipment bag, students collect one each

Alternative: Rounders balls, soft play balls

Coloured Cones

30 cones (10 red, 10 green, 10 yellow)

Set up 15 pairs around playing area at varying distances

Alternative: Coloured markers, bean bags

Rounders Equipment

4-6 bats

Create bases for zone rounders games

Alternative: Cones, markers, hoops

Key Vocabulary

Backstop

The fielding position behind the batter who catches missed balls and prevents them going too far

Ready Position

The alert stance with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, hands ready to catch

Decision Making

Quickly choosing the best option for where to throw the ball based on the game situation

Base Coverage

Understanding which base to throw to in order to get batters or runners out

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 base running
Experience playing in fielding positions

Current Skills

Correct backstop stance and positioning
Quick decision-making under pressure
Tactical awareness of game situations

Next Steps

Advanced backstop techniques including diving catches
Communication and leadership as backstop captain
Complex game strategy and field positioning

Milestone Indicators

Maintains ready position for entire batting turn

Makes correct throwing decisions 70% of the time

Shows confidence in communicating with teammates

Key Teaching Points

Backstop stance must be maintained consistently - feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, hands ready
Decision-making speed is crucial - students should throw within 2-3 seconds of catching the ball
Communication with teammates helps coordinate defensive strategy and prevents confusion
Reading the game situation determines where to throw - consider batter position and runner locations
Ready position allows for quick reactions - staying alert throughout the entire batting turn is essential
Practice builds confidence - multiple repetitions help develop muscle memory and decision-making skills
Positive attitude encourages team performance - backstop role requires resilience and leadership

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Backstop is an easy position that doesn't require much skill' - Correction: Explain how backstop requires excellent technique, quick thinking, and tactical awareness
Misconception: 'Always throw to first base from backstop' - Correction: Teach decision-making based on game situations and runner positions
Misconception: 'Standing casually is fine as backstop' - Correction: Emphasise importance of proper ready stance for quick reactions
Misconception: 'Backstop only catches missed balls' - Correction: Explain multiple responsibilities including strategic throwing and communication
Misconception: 'Anyone can play backstop without training' - Correction: Demonstrate the specific skills and knowledge required for effective backstop play

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments with clear start and end points, provide regular movement breaks, use high energy activities to maintain engagement, give specific roles and responsibilities

dyspraxia

Use larger, slower-moving balls for better tracking, provide extra practice time for skill development, break down complex movements into smaller steps, offer alternative equipment options

autism spectrum

Provide clear, structured routines for each activity, use visual schedules showing lesson progression, offer quiet zones if overstimulation occurs, give advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, use tactile guidance for backstop positioning, ensure clear audio cues for all activities

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations and hand signals, provide written instruction cards, ensure visual contact before giving instructions, use vibrant visual cues for game starts and stops

physical disability

Adapt backstop position for seated players or those with limited mobility, use larger or softer balls for easier handling, modify throwing distances as appropriate, provide additional support equipment

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Estimating distances for throwing accuracy, calculating angles for best throwing trajectory, measuring and comparing game zones

Science

Understanding forces in throwing and catching, reaction times and nervous system responses, balance and centre of gravity in stance

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding directions and relative positions of bases and fielders

PSHE

Decision-making under pressure, teamwork and communication, resilience when facing challenges, leadership and responsibility

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move constantly between game areas, spending time observing each backstop position and providing immediate feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct backstop stance, quick decision-making, accurate throwing, and positive communication

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for safety concerns, provide individual coaching for struggling students, recognise excellent decisions publicly

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show backstop stance clearly, demonstrate decision-making thought process aloud, show both correct and incorrect examples for comparison

Verbal Cues

•'Feet apart, knees bent!'
•'Quick decision - where's the best throw?'
•'Great stance, now stay alert!'
•'Think about the game situation!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor hall or outdoor area minimum 30m x 20m per game, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris, adequate grip for quick movements and directional changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tennis balls for damage and appropriate bounce
•Ensure cones are stable and have no sharp edges
•Rounders bats inspected for cracks or damage
•Posts securely positioned and stable

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during game play
•Balls striking students unexpectedly
•Slips and falls during quick directional changes
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all game areas
•Adequate spacing between multiple games
•Controlled throwing speeds and distances
•Progressive skill building before full game application
•Constant supervision and positioning for maximum visibility

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all game areas simultaneously
•Monitor backstop areas for safe positioning
•Watch for overexcitement leading to unsafe play
•Ensure rotation system maintains equal participation

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately with clear whistle signal, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, contact school emergency procedures if required