Lesson 4 - Base Running and Stopping
Skill Foundations in Rounders
•Year 4
•Rounders
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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
Sets of 4 cones per group for base layouts, extras for warm-up
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk circles
One per group for bowling area/backstop position
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, small cones
One per group, check inflation and condition
Alternative: Soft balls, bean bags, rounders balls
Key Vocabulary
Running around the four bases in order, staying on the outside
Getting a batter out by touching the ball on the base they're running to
One point scored by running around all four bases without stopping
Half point scored by reaching at least the second base
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
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