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Lesson 3 - Intercepting and Team Fielding

Game Intelligence Development

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Year 4

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we work together as a team to stop the opposition from scoring runs?

Learning Objectives

To choose effective fielding positions to intercept the ball using one hand
To intercept balls to prevent runs in game situations
To work collaboratively as a team to return balls quickly to the bases

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate tactical awareness by positioning themselves effectively to intercept balls
Students will successfully field moving balls using one-handed techniques
Students will show improved teamwork through communication and collaborative fielding strategies

Equipment & Resources Required

Softballs

60 (2 per student)

Store in equipment bags around the activity area perimeter

Alternative: Bean bags, foam balls, tennis balls

Rounders Equipment

One set per fielding group, extras available for quick replacement

Alternative: Tennis balls, foam rounders balls

Markers

16 (4 sets of 4)

Set up rounders diamond shapes in designated areas

Alternative: Cones, hoops, chalk circles

Dish Cones

Define team areas, boundaries, and target zones

Alternative: Spot markers, chalk lines

Bibs

30 (two different colours)

Distinguish teams clearly for activities and games

Alternative: Team bands, coloured markers

Key Vocabulary

Intercept

To catch or stop a ball before it reaches its intended destination

One-handed fielding

Using only one hand to pick up, catch, or control the ball during fielding

Tactical positioning

Choosing where to stand on the field to have the best chance of stopping runs

Communication

Talking clearly with teammates to coordinate fielding efforts

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling skills with two hands
Understanding of rounders field positions
Experience of working in teams during sports activities

Current Skills

One-handed fielding techniques
Tactical positioning for interception
Team communication during fielding
Quick ball return strategies

Next Steps

Advanced fielding under pressure
Combination plays between fielders
Match situation decision making

Milestone Indicators

Students consistently choose appropriate fielding positions

Successful one-handed fielding becomes more frequent

Team communication improves throughout activities

Quick accurate throws to prevent runs

Key Teaching Points

Use throwing hand for all one-handed fielding to maintain throwing readiness
Step with opposite foot when fielding to create better balance and throwing position
Attack the ball when fielding rather than waiting for it to come to you
Communication is crucial for effective team fielding - call clearly and loudly
Tactical positioning depends on reading the game situation and working as a team
Maintain technique quality even under competitive pressure
One-handed fielding increases speed of ball return in game situations

Common Misconceptions

Thinking any hand can be used for fielding - emphasise throwing hand only
Believing standing still is better than moving to attack the ball
Assuming individual brilliant fielding is better than team cooperation
Thinking two-handed fielding is always safer and more effective
Believing positioning doesn't matter if you're a good individual fielder

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide regular movement breaks, use clear visual and auditory cues for transitions

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment for easier handling, reduce complexity of movements, provide extra practice time and step-by-step demonstrations

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of activities, establish quiet zones for breaks, use consistent routines and clear expectations

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide clear verbal descriptions of field layout, assign sighted buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and demonstrations, provide written instructions, ensure clear line of sight for lip reading

physical disability

Adapt to seated fielding positions, use larger/softer balls, modify distances and provide additional equipment support

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating team scores, measuring distances between bases, estimating angles for effective fielding positions

Science

Understanding forces when throwing and catching, examining trajectory and momentum of moving balls

Geography

Spatial awareness and mapping of fielding positions, understanding directions and movement patterns on field

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration skills, resilience when facing challenges, communication and leadership development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at corner of activity area for maximum visibility of all groups while remaining accessible for immediate support

Observation Focus

Watch for correct one-handed fielding technique, tactical positioning decisions, and quality of team communication

Intervention Points

Step in when students struggle with technique, when safety is compromised, or when team cooperation breaks down

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Exaggerate correct foot positioning for visibility. Show confident, attacking approach to ball. Model clear communication calls throughout.

Verbal Cues

•'Attack the ball with your throwing hand!'
•'Step with your opposite foot!'
•'Communicate with your team!'
•'Great positioning - you covered that space perfectly!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear space for multiple fielding areas and running activities

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles, holes, or slippery patches

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all balls are in good condition without cracks
•Ensure tees are stable and positioned safely
•Confirm marker cones have no sharp edges
•Verify bases are flat and won't cause trips

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during fielding and running
•Ball strikes to head or body during throwing
•Trips and falls when running between bases
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between all activity areas
•Supervised throwing with emphasis on controlled technique
•Safe running paths marked and obstacles removed
•Regular breaks and monitoring for signs of fatigue
•Emphasis on soft balls during warm-up activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all activity areas
•Monitor fielding areas for safe spacing
•Watch for proper technique during one-handed fielding
•Ensure fair play and respect during competitive elements

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or call for medical support as needed