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Lesson 3 - Introducing Batting Techniques

Tactical Gameplay Strategies

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Year 4

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Rounders

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use smart batting strategies to score more rounders and win games?

Learning Objectives

To develop the fundamental batting technique with a sideways stance and controlled swing
To understand where and when to hit the ball for maximum scoring potential
To apply batting skills in modified rounders games with tactical awareness

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate correct batting stance and hitting technique
Students will show understanding of strategic ball placement when batting
Students will apply batting skills effectively in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

8-10

Check bats are appropriate length and weight for Year 4 students

Alternative: Tennis rackets for support group, cricket bats as extension

Tennis Balls

Use softer balls for safety, harder balls for authentic experience

Alternative: Foam balls for beginners, proper rounders balls for advanced

Cones

Mark batting squares, bowling squares, and base positions clearly

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or chalk lines

Markers

16 (4 per pitch)

Ensure bases are clearly visible and appropriately spaced

Alternative: Cones, mats, or chalk circles

Key Vocabulary

Batting stance

The sideways position a batter takes when preparing to hit the ball

Swing technique

The controlled movement of the bat to make contact with the ball

Ball placement

Deliberately hitting the ball to specific areas to avoid fielders

Rounder

A point scored by running around all four bases after hitting the ball

Backstop

The 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 throwing and catching techniques
Understanding of bowler, backstop, and fielder roles
Experience with underarm bowling accuracy

Current Skills

Correct batting stance and grip
Coordinated hitting technique with bat and ball
Strategic thinking about ball placement

Next Steps

Advanced batting techniques including different shot types
Tactical running between bases for maximum scoring
Full rounders game with refined batting and fielding roles

Milestone Indicators

Consistent contact with ball using proper stance

Deliberate direction of hit balls away from fielders

Successful scoring through coordinated batting and running

Key Teaching Points

Sideways batting stance is fundamental for safety and effectiveness
Eye contact with ball throughout its flight improves contact success
Strategic ball placement away from fielders maximises scoring opportunities
Teamwork in fielding requires communication and coordination
Positive coaching language builds confidence and enjoyment
Progressive skill building ensures all students can participate successfully
Game application consolidates learned techniques in realistic contexts

Common Misconceptions

Students think power is more important than accuracy - emphasise placement over force
Batters believe they should always run regardless of hit quality - teach strategic decision-making
Fielders assume individual brilliance wins games - stress teamwork and communication
Some think rounders is just like cricket - highlight unique rules and strategies
Students may believe missing the ball means failure - emphasise learning process and half-rounder opportunities

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with frequent position changes, clear physical boundaries, regular positive feedback and encouragement

dyspraxia

Simplified coordination activities, extra practice time, larger equipment for easier handling, step-by-step technique breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear activity structure with visual schedules, quiet zones available for breaks, consistent routines and expectations

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of field layout, implement buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for game communication, written instructions on display boards

physical disability

Provide seated batting opportunities, modify running distances, use adapted equipment like lighter bats or larger balls

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating scores and statistics, measuring distances between bases, angles of ball direction, timing and counting in games

Science

Forces and motion in batting technique, trajectory and speed of balls, leverage and momentum in swing mechanics

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, mapping field layouts, understanding direction and distance in gameplay

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, leadership skills in coaching others, respect and fair play

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Circulate between stations during skill development, position centrally during games for maximum visibility of both pitches

Observation Focus

Monitor batting stance and technique, watch for strategic thinking development, check teamwork and sportsmanship

Intervention Points

Step in if batting technique becomes unsafe, support students struggling with coordination, mediate any disputes during games

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate batting stance clearly before students attempt, show strategic thinking by pointing out fielder positions, model positive coaching language throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Sideways stance - shoulder to the bowler!'
•'Watch the ball all the way to your bat!'
•'Hit it where they're not standing!'
•'Work together fielders - base to base!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m area for two rounders pitches with adequate safety zones between

Surface Check

Dry, level surface free from obstacles, holes, or trip hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all bats for cracks or damage before use
•Ensure balls are appropriate softness for age group
•Verify cones and bases are stable and visible
•Check bat grips are secure and not slippery

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Bat contact injuries during swing or running
•Ball strike injuries to fielders or other students
•Collision injuries during running between bases
•Trips or falls during rapid direction changes

Risk Mitigation

•Clear safety briefing on bat handling and running techniques
•Adequate spacing between batting stations and activities
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex activities
•Constant supervision during all batting and game activities
•Use of appropriate equipment for skill level

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all batting stations
•Actively monitor batting technique for safety
•Watch for unsafe equipment handling during games
•Ensure safe running techniques are maintained

Emergency Procedures

Immediate stop signal for all activities, assess injuries with appropriate first aid response, clear communication with school office if required