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Lesson 5 - Two-Handed Fielding Skills

Skill Foundations in Rounders

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Year 4

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can different fielding techniques help us become more effective defenders in Rounders?

Learning Objectives

To master the two-handed pick up technique for approaching balls
To develop the short barrier technique for stopping rolling balls
To apply fielding skills effectively in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate two-handed pick up with correct body positioning
Students will use short barrier technique to stop balls reliably
Students will select appropriate fielding techniques during game play

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Use for boundaries, goals, and base markers

Alternative: Marker spots, plastic bottles

Hoops

Bowler's starting positions and base markers

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles

Tennis Balls

One per pair for practice activities

Alternative: Soft play balls, bean bags

Balls

1 (optional)

For easier catching practice if needed

Alternative: Larger soft ball

Key Vocabulary

Two-handed pick up

A fielding technique where both hands scoop up a rolling ball while moving forward

Short barrier

A fielding technique using foot as backup to stop rolling balls

Fielder

A player whose job is to catch or stop the ball and prevent runs

Tracking

Following the ball's path with eyes and adjusting body position

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to catch missed balls

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic catching and throwing skills
Understanding of overarm throwing technique
Awareness of ball tracking

Current Skills

Two-handed pick up technique
Short barrier fielding method
Selecting appropriate fielding techniques

Next Steps

One-handed pick up for faster balls
Long barrier technique
Advanced fielding positioning

Milestone Indicators

Consistent ball stopping using appropriate technique

Quick transition from fielding to throwing

Effective decision-making in game situations

Key Teaching Points

Get your feet behind the ball before attempting to field
Use little fingers together to create effective cup shape for two-handed pick up
Position foot directly behind hands as safety backup in short barrier
Select appropriate technique based on ball speed and direction
Track the ball with eyes throughout the fielding movement
Practice quick transition from fielding to throwing for game effectiveness
Apply fielding skills strategically to prevent runs and support team defence

Common Misconceptions

That you can field effectively by reaching from the side - emphasise getting body behind ball
That short barrier uses foot as primary stopping method - hands remain the main technique
That fielding techniques are always the same - teach selection based on ball characteristics
That fielding is just about stopping the ball - include quick retrieval and team support concepts
That practice techniques don't apply in games - emphasise transfer to real Rounders situations

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with clear objectives, regular position changes, clear boundaries and expectations

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, reduced complexity in multi-step tasks, extra practice time for coordination

autism spectrum

Clear routines and structure, visual schedules, quiet zones available if overwhelmed by activity

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls, verbal descriptions of ball position, buddy system for guidance and support

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written teaching points on display board

physical disability

Seated fielding variations, adapted equipment like larger balls, modified distances and techniques

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances in metres, counting successful attempts, calculating success rates and improvement percentages

Science

Forces and motion in ball rolling, friction between ball and surface, body systems response to exercise

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, directions and movement patterns, mapping field positions

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, communication and encouragement of others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between pairs and groups for optimal observation, position to see all students during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct foot positioning, appropriate technique selection, and safe movement patterns

Intervention Points

Step in when technique safety is compromised, when students show frustration, or when rules understanding breaks down

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clarity, show common mistakes as well as correct technique, involve students in demonstrations when appropriate

Verbal Cues

•'Get behind the ball!'
•'Little fingers together!'
•'Foot behind hands - safety first!'
•'Track that ball!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large open space minimum 30m x 20m for multiple activities and mini games

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes or obstacles that could cause trips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Tennis balls checked for damage and appropriate bounce
•Cones checked for cracks and sharp edges
•Hoops inspected for damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during movement activities
•Ball strikes to head or body
•Trips and falls during fielding movements
•Overexertion during active games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for each activity area
•Adequate spacing between pairs and groups
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Emphasis on controlled ball rolling rather than throwing

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all activities
•Monitor spacing and movement quality
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration
•Ensure proper technique to prevent injury

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safely managed