Lesson 2 - Base Running Tactics
Game Intelligence Development
•Year 4
•Rounders
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How can we use speed and tactical thinking to outsmart our opponents in rounders?
Learning Objectives
- To predict and anticipate the optimal number of zones to run between posts
- To develop running speed and timing to avoid being stumped out
- To apply basic fielding tactics to prevent batters from scoring runs
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved running speed and decision-making between posts
- Students will show understanding of fielding positions and tactical awareness
- Students will apply zone-running strategies effectively in game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Distribute around playing area perimeter
Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls for safety
Mark out 4 distinct zones clearly visible from all angles
Alternative: Hoops, bean bags, chalk lines
Two different colours for easy team distinction
Alternative: Coloured cones for team identification
Key Vocabulary
A marked area on the playing field that batters can run to for safety
Markers that batters must run around or between in rounders
When a fielder gets the ball to the base before the batter arrives
Where players stand to best catch or collect the ball
Predicting where the ball or batter will go before it happens
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running techniques and spatial awareness
- Understanding of simple throwing and catching
- Knowledge of zones and boundaries in games
Current Skills
- Running at speed between fixed points
- Decision-making under pressure while running
- Tactical fielding and anticipation skills
Next Steps
- Complex game situations with multiple batters
- Advanced fielding positions and communication
- Full rounders games with sophisticated tactics
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Running technique: head up, arms pumping, controlled speed appropriate for distance
- Tactical awareness: watch fielders before making decisions about which zone to run to
- Safety consciousness: understand boundaries and safe stopping points in zones
- Anticipation skills: predict opponent movements and position accordingly
- Teamwork: communicate with teammates and support each other's learning
- Fair play: accept decisions gracefully and celebrate others' successes
- Progressive challenge: start with simple skills and build to complex game situations
Common Misconceptions
- Always run to the furthest zone - correct with tactical thinking about fielder positions
- Speed is more important than technique - emphasise controlled, efficient movement
- Fielders should crowd around one zone - teach about spreading out and anticipation
- Only the fastest students can be good at rounders - highlight tactical thinking and teamwork
- You must run immediately when the ball is bowled - explain the option to wait and assess
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries and rules, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement
dyspraxia
- Extra practice time for coordination, larger targets and zones, simplified instructions, peer support
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available, consistent routines and predictable structure
visual impairment
- Use bright contrasting colours for zone markers, verbal descriptions of fielder positions, buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual signals and hand gestures for instructions, written rules displayed, peer support for communication
physical disability
- Modified running distances, walking options, seated fielding positions, adapted equipment
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Vocabulary development with tactical terms, communication skills in team discussions, following and giving instructions
Science
Understanding forces and motion in running, acceleration and deceleration, reaction times and human body responses
Geography
Spatial awareness and orientation, understanding of directions and positions, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, handling competitive pressure, building resilience and determination
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter of activity area for clear sight lines to all students, position centrally during demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for safe running technique, tactical decision-making, teamwork and communication, fair play
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe running or poor sportsmanship occurs, support students struggling with tactical concepts
Demonstration Notes
Use slow-motion demonstrations for complex skills, exaggerate key technique points for visibility, involve students in demonstrations when appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Head up, arms pumping!'
- •'Watch the fielders before you decide!'
- •'Smart decision to stop in that zone!'
- •'Excellent anticipation, fielders!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 30m area, clear of obstacles and with safe boundaries
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from debris, adequate grip for running activities
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Balls inflated to correct pressure and checked for damage
- •Cones and posts securely positioned and visible
- •No sharp edges on any equipment used
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between runners
- •Slips and falls during running
- •Ball strikes to head or body
- •Overexertion in competitive activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear running lanes and adequate spacing between groups
- •Progressive intensity building from warm-up to main activities
- •Clear rules about safe stopping and movement
- •Regular reminders about spatial awareness
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all running areas
- •Monitor energy levels and competitiveness
- •Watch for signs of overexertion or distress
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if serious injury