⚾

Lesson 4 - Underarm Bowling Skills

Game Intelligence Development

•

Year 4

•

Rounders

•

Big Question

How can we use underarm bowling skills to control the game and make it challenging for the batting team?

Learning Objectives

Develop accurate underarm bowling technique following correct biomechanical principles
Apply underarm bowling skills in competitive game situations with tactical awareness
Understand and explain the rules and regulations governing underarm bowling in rounders

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate consistent underarm bowling technique with accurate targeting
Students will apply bowling skills effectively in small-sided game situations
Students will articulate the key rules of bowling and explain tactical considerations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

8 (for game activity)

Distributed in equipment stations around activity areas

Alternative: Tennis balls, softball

Rounders Posts and Bases

8 (2 per small game)

Positioned 12 metres apart for game activities

Alternative: Cones, markers, hoops

Cones

Used for boundaries, target zones, and activity markers

Alternative: Markers, spots

Bibs

15 (5 each of 3 colours)

For identifying teams during game activities

Alternative: Coloured bands, team markers

Key Vocabulary

Underarm bowling

A bowling technique where the ball is delivered below shoulder height with an underhand motion

Good ball

A ball bowled within the rules between the batter's knee and head on their hitting side

No ball

An illegal bowl that doesn't meet the rules requirements

Follow-through

The continuation of the bowling action after releasing the ball

Backswing

The backward movement of the arm before bowling to generate power

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills from earlier units
Understanding of target games and accuracy activities
Awareness of simple game rules and turn-taking

Current Skills

Underarm bowling technique with step and follow-through
Application of bowling rules in game contexts
Tactical awareness in bowling placement and speed

Next Steps

Advanced bowling variations and tactical placement
Bowling under pressure in full game situations
Understanding of field placement to support bowling

Milestone Indicators

Consistent step with opposite foot when bowling

Accurate targeting of designated hitting zone

Ability to self-correct technique based on results

Key Teaching Points

Side-on stance with opposite foot stepping forward for power and accuracy
Smooth pendulum action with controlled backswing and follow-through
Ball must be bowled between knee and head height on the hitting side
Maintain technique consistency even under competitive pressure
Tactical variation in speed and placement while staying within rules
Clear communication and fair play enhance everyone's enjoyment
Practice and patience lead to improved accuracy and confidence

Common Misconceptions

Thinking harder bowling is always better - accuracy and placement are more important than speed
Believing rules restrict fun - rules actually ensure fair play and safety for all participants
Assuming side-on stance is harder - it actually provides more power and accuracy than square stance
Thinking bowling fast means rushing the action - smooth, controlled technique is more effective
Believing only the strongest students can be good bowlers - technique beats strength every time

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, additional adult support for focus, movement breaks built into activities

dyspraxia

Simplified coordination patterns initially, larger equipment, additional practice time, step-by-step technique breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedules showing activity sequence, quiet zone available if needed, predictable routines and expectations

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide audio cues for bowling direction, buddy system for navigation, tactile markers for positions

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written rule cards, use of visual signals for game management

physical disability

Modified bowling distances, seated bowling options, larger/lighter balls, adapted bases for mobility aids

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring bowling distances, counting sequences in warm-up, calculating scores and timing in games

Science

Understanding forces and motion in bowling action, trajectory and ball flight paths, biomechanics of efficient movement

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding angles and directions, mapping movement patterns around bases

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation skills, leadership development, resilience when facing challenges, respect for rules and fairness

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Rotate between activity areas to provide support and feedback, position at corner for maximum visibility during games

Observation Focus

Watch for bowling technique consistency, rule application accuracy, and safe participation

Intervention Points

Step in when technique deteriorates significantly, rules being applied incorrectly, or unsafe play observed

Demonstration Notes

Use student volunteers to show good practice, demonstrate full technique slowly before adding speed, show both successful and less successful attempts for learning

Verbal Cues

•'Step and swing, smooth and strong!'
•'Pendulum action, point to target!'
•'Good ball means must run!'
•'Rules help everyone have fun!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m, clear of obstacles, with designated bowling lanes

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes or debris, suitable for running

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check balls are appropriate weight and condition
•Ensure posts/bases are securely positioned
•Verify bats have no splits or sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between runners and fielders
•Trips from equipment on ground
•Overexertion during competitive games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between activity areas
•Bowling directions organised to avoid conflicts
•Equipment stored safely when not in use
•Progressive skill building before full-speed games
•Clear communication protocols during games

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all bowling activities
•Monitor game areas for safe play
•Watch for fatigue during extended activities

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity, assess injury/incident, apply appropriate first aid, report as required