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Lesson 1 - Rounders Concepts

Tactical Gameplay Strategies

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Year 4

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we use accurate throwing and strategic thinking to become effective batting and fielding teams?

Learning Objectives

To consolidate understanding of batting and fielding roles in rounders
To develop accurate throwing and catching skills in game situations
To understand basic tactics for both batting and fielding teams

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate understanding of batting and fielding concepts
Students will show improved accuracy in throwing and catching
Students will apply tactics to improve team performance

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

7 (one per team)

One ball per team ready at batting area

Alternative: Soft rounders balls, foam balls

Cones

20 (4 per team/pitch)

Set up 4 bases per pitch in diamond formation

Alternative: Hoops, markers, spots

Bibs

Half class set

Clearly distinguish batting and fielding teams

Alternative: Different coloured tops

Safety Cones

6-8

Mark safety line for waiting batters

Alternative: Rope, markers

Key Vocabulary

Batting

The team trying to score points by hitting the ball and running around bases

Fielding

The team trying to stop the batting team from scoring by retrieving and throwing the ball

Bases

The four stations (cones) that batters must run around to score points

Long barrier

A fielding technique using your body to stop the ball rolling past you

Overarm throw

Throwing the ball with your arm going over your shoulder for power and distance

Underarm throw

Throwing the ball with your arm swinging underhand for accuracy over short distances

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of throwing and catching
Awareness of team games concepts
Year 3 introduction to rounders concepts

Current Skills

Understanding batting vs fielding roles
Accurate throwing in sequence
Strategic thinking in game situations

Next Steps

More complex rounders rules and tactics
Advanced striking techniques
Competitive rounders gameplay

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate throws to bases

Understanding of fielding positions

Effective team communication during games

Key Teaching Points

Batting teams aim to throw the ball away from fielders and score maximum points
Fielding teams must work together to get the ball to base 4 as quickly as possible
Accurate throwing in sequence (base 1→2→3→4) is crucial for fielding success
Catching the ball before it bounces gets the batter out immediately
Communication and teamwork are essential for both batting and fielding teams
Strategic thinking improves performance - look for gaps when batting, position well when fielding
Good sportsmanship and encouragement make the game enjoyable for everyone

Common Misconceptions

Batting is just about throwing as hard as possible - actually requires strategic direction
Fielders should all run towards the ball - actually need positioned spread and communication
The game is only about winning - actually focuses on skill development and teamwork
Catching is only the job of outfielders - all fielders should be ready to catch
Base runners should go slowly - actually need quick running between bases for scoring

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear movement boundaries, regular positive feedback and recognition

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for throwing technique, larger/softer equipment, simplified tactical instructions

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and cones, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, assign buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for key instructions, written rule cards available

physical disability

Seated throwing variations, modified bases closer together, adapted equipment as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting scores and rounders, calculating team totals, measuring distances between bases

Science

Forces in throwing - push and pull, trajectory and angles, body systems during exercise

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness, mapping movement around bases, understanding of boundaries

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competition, resilience when facing challenges, leadership skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between teams to observe and coach, position for clear view of all activities

Observation Focus

Tactical understanding development, throwing accuracy improvement, team communication

Intervention Points

Step in when safety is compromised, when teams need tactical guidance, when conflict arises

Demonstration Notes

Use student demonstrations when possible, exaggerate key technique points for visibility, relate to real rounders context

Verbal Cues

•'Throw away from the fielders!'
•'Quick hands, accurate throws!'
•'Talk to your teammates!'
•'Watch the ball into your hands!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 30m x 40m with multiple pitch areas, clear boundaries

Surface Check

Level grass or playground surface, free from holes or obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tennis balls for damage before use
•Ensure cones are stable and visible
•Verify no sharp edges on any equipment

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions during base running
•Trips over bases or equipment
•Overexertion during competitive play

Risk Mitigation

•Clear safety line for waiting batters away from throwing area
•Teach safe throwing technique - overarm but controlled
•Establish clear running paths between bases
•Monitor competitive intensity to prevent overexertion
•Ensure adequate spacing between teams/pitches

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all pitches simultaneously
•Monitor throwing areas for safety compliance
•Watch for signs of fatigue affecting technique

Emergency Procedures

Stop all play immediately, assess situation, apply appropriate first aid, seek additional support if needed