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Lesson 4 - Ground Fielding Techniques

Team Performance Skills

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Year 4

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can I choose the right fielding technique to stop the ball and create effective sequences of movement?

Learning Objectives

To develop ground fielding techniques using one and two-handed pickups
To apply appropriate fielding techniques based on ball speed and direction
To link fielding skills with throwing actions in game sequences

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate effective ground fielding using various techniques
Students will select appropriate fielding methods for different ball speeds
Students will perform smooth sequences from fielding to throwing in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

8-10

Distributed around activity areas

Alternative: Tennis balls or soft cricket balls

Markers

16 (4 sets of 4)

Set up two diamond shapes for game play

Alternative: Cones, hoops, or chalk circles

Hoops

4-6

Used as targets for bowling practice

Alternative: Chalk circles or rope circles

Cones

Mark boundaries and starting positions

Alternative: Markers or bean bags

Key Vocabulary

Ground fielding

Collecting a ball that is rolling or bouncing along the ground

One-handed pickup

Fielding technique using one hand for balls rolling directly towards you

Two-handed pickup

Fielding technique using both hands for more secure collection

Backstop

Player positioned behind the batter to catch missed balls

No ball

An illegal delivery in rounders that gives the batter advantages

Sequence of movement

Linking multiple skills together in a smooth, continuous action

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and catching skills
Understanding of overarm throwing technique
Knowledge of basic rounders rules and positions

Current Skills

One-handed and two-handed ground fielding techniques
Smooth transitions from fielding to throwing
Tactical awareness in fielding positions

Next Steps

Advanced fielding under pressure situations
Complex game strategies and team coordination
Leadership roles in organising defensive plays

Milestone Indicators

Consistent successful ground fielding with appropriate technique

Smooth, continuous movement from field to throw

Effective communication and positioning in team games

Key Teaching Points

Different fielding techniques are needed for different ball speeds and situations
Smooth sequences from fielding to throwing are more effective than separate actions
Body positioning is crucial for successful ground fielding
Communication through the backstop prevents confusion in team situations
Practice with both hands develops complete fielding ability
Understanding rules enhances game enjoyment and fairness
Teamwork and individual skills must work together in rounders

Common Misconceptions

Thinking one fielding technique works for all situations - correct by showing technique variety
Believing fielding and throwing are separate skills - emphasise flowing sequences
Assuming only dominant hand is needed for fielding - practice ambidextrous skills
Thinking louder communication is better - teach clear, specific instruction calling
Believing speed is more important than technique - emphasise control over power
Thinking rules don't matter in practice - connect skills to game application throughout

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback

dyspraxia

Larger balls, reduced complexity, extra practice time, visual technique reminders

autism spectrum

Clear routines, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls, verbal cues for positioning, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written rule reminders

physical disability

Seated fielding options, modified equipment, adapted throwing distances

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating runs scored, measuring distances between bases, angles of fielding positions

Science

Forces in throwing actions, friction between ball and ground, trajectory and momentum

Geography

Spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns, understanding directions and positions

PSHE

Teamwork skills, leadership development, resilience when facing challenges, fair play values

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between activities and games to monitor all students, stand where whole area is visible

Observation Focus

Watch for correct fielding technique, skill sequence development, and team communication

Intervention Points

Step in when safety concerns arise, when students struggle with technique, or when rules confusion occurs

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show techniques clearly, involve students in demonstrations when appropriate

Verbal Cues

•'Low body, palm to target!'
•'Swoop and throw in one movement!'
•'Backstop calls the plays!'
•'Watch the ball all the way!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m for two game areas, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for running and fielding

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check balls are in good condition with no cracks
•Ensure bats have secure grips and no damage
•Verify hoops and cones have no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes from throws or batted balls
•Collisions between fielders
•Slips and falls during fielding movements
•Bat contact with other students

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing lanes established and maintained
•Adequate spacing between activities and teams
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Constant awareness of ball location
•Proper bat handling procedures