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Lesson 4 - Base Running and Stopping

Skill Foundations in Rounders

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Year 4

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Rounders

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Big Question

How do effective base runners decide when to run and when to stop safely?

Learning Objectives

To run confidently around the outside of bases following rounders rules
To make tactical decisions about when to continue running or stop at a base
To understand and apply stumping rules as both batter and fielder

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate correct base running technique staying on the outside
Students will show tactical awareness by stopping appropriately to avoid being stumped out
Students will apply rounders scoring system and stumping rules in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Sets of 4 cones per group for base layouts, extras for warm-up

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk circles

Hoops

One per group for bowling area/backstop position

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, small cones

Tennis Balls

One per group, check inflation and condition

Alternative: Soft balls, bean bags, rounders balls

Key Vocabulary

Base running

Running around the four bases in order, staying on the outside

Stumping out

Getting a batter out by touching the ball on the base they're running to

Full rounder

One point scored by running around all four bases without stopping

Half rounder

Half point scored by reaching at least the second base

Backstop

Fielder positioned behind the batter to collect missed balls

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running and stopping skills
Understanding of simple game rules
Experience with throwing and catching

Current Skills

Base running technique and rules
Tactical decision making under pressure
Understanding stumping and scoring

Next Steps

Advanced batting techniques
Complex fielding strategies
Full rounders match play

Milestone Indicators

Runs consistently on outside of bases

Makes appropriate stop/go decisions

Explains stumping rules to others

Key Teaching Points

Always run around the outside of bases - inside running results in automatic dismissal
Keep bases/cones on your left-hand side throughout the circuit for correct path
Watch ball position constantly to make smart decisions about running or stopping
Stumping occurs when ball touches the base the batter is running TO, not the one they're at
Scoring system: full rounder for complete circuit, half rounder for reaching base two safely
Good bowling is between head and knee height - maintain this standard for fair play
Tactical thinking beats speed - smart running decisions are more valuable than pure pace

Common Misconceptions

Students think running inside bases is faster and acceptable - emphasise automatic dismissal rule
Belief that stumping happens at the base you're standing on - clarify it's the base you're running TO
Assumption that you must always run for a full rounder - teach value of strategic half rounders
Thinking that speed alone wins games - emphasise tactical decision-making over pure athleticism
Confusion about when to stop running - teach ball awareness and fielder positioning assessment

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear physical boundaries, regular specific feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Larger base spacing for easier navigation, extra practice time, simplified movement patterns initially

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule displayed, quiet reflection zones available during games

visual impairment

Use bright coloured cones, provide verbal cues for direction, implement buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for game play, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Modify running to walking pace, allow seated throwing/catching, adapted equipment as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating scores and statistics, measuring distances between bases, understanding fractions with half rounders

Science

Forces in throwing and catching, momentum in running, angles of ball trajectory

Geography

Direction awareness, spatial understanding, mapping field positions and movements

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when dismissed, managing competitive emotions and fair play

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position centrally during warm-up, move between groups during skills practice, central during games for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct base running paths, tactical decision-making, safe play, and rule understanding

Intervention Points

Step in if students running inside bases, unsafe play occurring, or rules being misapplied consistently

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Always show correct base running path with exaggerated wide movement, use clear gestures for tactical decisions

Verbal Cues

•'Wide around the cones!'
•'Keep cones on your left!'
•'Watch the ball position!'
•'Think about the risk!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 30m, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for running and quick direction changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Ensure tennis balls are in good condition without splits
•Hoops should be flat on ground when not being held

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between running students and fielders
•Falls during quick direction changes around bases
•Ball strikes to head or body during throws

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between groups
•Adequate spacing maintained throughout all activities
•Safe throwing techniques taught and reinforced
•Controlled running speeds appropriate for space and skill level

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all running areas
•Monitor high-activity areas during game play
•Watch for dangerous play and intervene immediately

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury severity, provide appropriate first aid support and contact emergency services if required