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Lesson 6 - Competitive Rounders Games

Game Intelligence Development

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Year 4

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we use tactical thinking and teamwork to succeed in competitive rounders matches?

Learning Objectives

To play rounders competitively using official scoring systems
To identify and describe successful play in batting, bowling and fielding
To understand and apply the rules for scoring full and half rounders

Key Outcomes

Students will compete in organised rounders matches using proper scoring
Students will demonstrate understanding of tactical play and positioning
Students will accurately identify and score full and half rounders

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

4-6

Different sizes available for students with varying abilities

Alternative: Cricket bats, tennis rackets for adapted versions

Markers

Bright colours for clear visibility, 15 yards apart

Alternative: Spot markers, chalk circles

Scorecards

1 per team

Clear format showing full and half rounders

Alternative: Whiteboards, digital scoring apps

Bibs

2 sets of 15

Clear team identification for competitive play

Alternative: Coloured bands, team shirts

Key Vocabulary

Full rounder

When a batter runs around all four bases in one turn without stopping

Half rounder

When a batter takes more than one turn to complete all four bases

Tactical positioning

Placing fielders in strategic positions to prevent scoring

Round robin

A competition format where every team plays every other team once

Competitive play

Playing with official rules and scoring to determine winners

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Students can perform basic batting, bowling and fielding skills
Students understand the concept of bases and running in rounders
Students can work cooperatively in team games

Current Skills

Apply rounders skills in competitive game situations
Use tactical awareness to improve team performance
Understand and apply official scoring systems

Next Steps

Develop advanced tactical strategies
Take on leadership and officiating roles
Apply skills in inter-school competitions

Milestone Indicators

Consistent application of skills under pressure

Clear understanding of tactical positioning

Accurate scoring and rule application

Key Teaching Points

Full rounders require continuous running around all bases in one turn
Half rounders are scored when batters complete bases over multiple turns
Tactical positioning is crucial for both batting and fielding success
Competitive play requires excellent sportsmanship and fair play
Communication between teammates improves performance significantly
Accurate scoring and rule knowledge enhance game enjoyment
Leadership skills develop through competitive opportunities

Common Misconceptions

Thinking any contact with bases counts as a rounder - clarify full versus half rounders
Believing faster always means better - emphasise control and accuracy
Assuming fielders must stay in fixed positions - teach tactical movement
Thinking competition means winning at all costs - emphasise fair play
Believing only winning teams played well - recognise effort and improvement
Assuming all disputes are serious - teach conflict resolution skills

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break competition into shorter segments, provide clear role definitions, use positive reinforcement frequently

dyspraxia

Allow extra practice time, use larger/softer balls, provide clear step-by-step instructions for complex skills

autism spectrum

Provide clear game structure and routine, offer quiet zones for breaks, use visual schedules for game rotation

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of game situations, assign sighted guide for base running

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for game management, provide written rule cards, ensure clear line of sight for communication

physical disability

Modify batting technique for wheelchair users, create accessible fielding zones, use lighter equipment where needed

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills, explaining rules and tactics to teammates

Maths

Calculating league tables, scoring systems, measuring distances for pitches

Science

Understanding forces in batting and throwing, body systems during exercise

Geography

Spatial awareness, understanding angles and directions in fielding

PSHE

Fair play, handling competition pressure, teamwork and leadership

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between games to observe all teams, position centrally when possible to monitor multiple pitches

Observation Focus

Look for tactical play, fair play, accurate scoring, and skill application under pressure

Intervention Points

Step in for safety concerns, rule disputes, or to highlight excellent examples of play

Demonstration Notes

Use games as teaching moments to highlight good play, stop action briefly to show tactical improvements

Verbal Cues

•'Great tactical thinking!'
•'Remember the safety zones!'
•'Excellent sportsmanship!'
•'Think about your positioning!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area, minimum 30m x 40m per pitch for 7v7 games

Surface Check

Level grass or hard court surface, free from holes, stones or hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check bats for cracks or splinters
•Ensure balls are in good condition
•Verify base markers are secure and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between runners and fielders
•Bat strikes during batting

Risk Mitigation

•Clear safety zones around batters
•Appropriate spacing between multiple pitches
•Controlled competitive environment with clear rules

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe multiple games simultaneously
•Monitor competitive intensity to prevent over-excitement
•Intervene quickly in any disputes or safety concerns

Emergency Procedures

Stop all games immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students remain calm and safe