⚾

Lesson 5 - Fielding Tactics

Tactical Gameplay Strategies

•

Year 4

•

Rounders

•

Big Question

How can fielders work together to prevent batters from scoring maximum runs?

Learning Objectives

Develop understanding of basic fielding tactics and positioning
Apply accurate throwing and catching skills in game situations
Understand the roles and responsibilities of different fielding positions

Key Outcomes

Students will position themselves strategically to support team fielding
Students will demonstrate accurate throwing to prevent batting team from scoring
Students will understand how teamwork improves fielding effectiveness

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

8-10

Stored in bucket at edge of playing area

Alternative: Softer rounders balls for less confident students

Tennis Rackets

4-6

Available for extension activity

Alternative: Rounders bats or plastic cricket bats

Rounders Posts and Bases

4 sets

Set up multiple pitches around playing area

Alternative: Traffic cones or markers

Bibs

16 (2 colours)

Half red, half blue for easy team identification

Alternative: Different coloured cones for team identification

Key Vocabulary

Fielding

The team trying to prevent the batting team from scoring runs

Back up

Supporting a teammate by positioning behind them to stop missed balls

Long barrier

A fielding technique using the body to create a long wall to stop rolling balls

Overarm throw

Throwing technique with arm going over shoulder for power and distance

Base

The posts that batters must reach to score runs

Rounder

A point scored when a batter successfully runs around all bases

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic underarm and overarm throwing techniques
Understanding of rounders basic rules
Individual catching and ball control skills

Current Skills

Tactical fielding positioning
Team communication during fielding
Quick and accurate ball return to base

Next Steps

Advanced fielding formations
Anticipating batter intentions
Complex team fielding strategies

Milestone Indicators

Accurate throws reaching target 8/10 times

Quick ball retrieval and return within 3 seconds

Effective communication with fielding teammates

Key Teaching Points

Backing up means positioning yourself to help your teammate, not just watching
Quick ball return to base 1 prevents batters from scoring multiple rounders
Communication between fielders is essential - call 'mine' when going for the ball
Long barrier technique creates a reliable way to stop rolling balls
Overarm throwing gives power and accuracy for longer distances
Fielding is about teamwork - individual skills must work together
Good positioning saves time and energy when fielding

Common Misconceptions

Thinking fielding is just about individual skills rather than team tactics
Believing backing up means standing next to your teammate instead of strategic positioning
Assuming all fielders should run to the ball instead of having defined roles
Thinking throwing harder always means throwing more accurately
Believing good fielding is just about catching and throwing, not positioning and communication

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with regular position changes, clear visual boundaries, immediate feedback

dyspraxia

Larger balls for easier catching, simplified tactical instructions, extra practice time for coordination

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available if overstimulated

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and equipment, verbal cues for positioning, buddy system with sighted partner

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for communication, written tactical instructions

physical disability

Seated throwing version, modified distances, use of ramps or adapted equipment for ball delivery

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating angles for throwing, measuring distances between bases, counting scores and statistics

Science

Forces in throwing - push and pull, trajectory and gravity effects on ball flight

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding directions and compass points

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills, supporting others and building confidence

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during practice, central position during demonstrations for visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for tactical understanding, throwing accuracy, and team communication

Intervention Points

Step in if students not applying tactics, safety concerns, or lack of inclusion

Demonstration Notes

Use student volunteers to show good examples, exaggerate movements for clarity, repeat key demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Back up your teammate!'
•'Quick throw to base 1!'
•'Communicate with your team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area or sports hall, minimum 30m x 40m for multiple groups

Surface Check

Even surface free from holes or debris, dry conditions preferred

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tennis balls are in good condition with no cracks
•Ensure rackets (if used) have secure grips and no damage
•Verify cones are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between students running to same ball
•Trips or falls when running between bases
•Overexertion during throwing activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear group boundaries to prevent collisions
•Emphasis on calling 'mine' when going for ball
•Progressive throwing warm-up to prevent arm strain
•Safe running paths between bases clearly marked

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe multiple groups simultaneously
•Monitor throwing technique to prevent injury
•Watch for signs of fatigue during activities

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students remain safe distance