Lesson 1 - Calling For Runs
Core Skills & Tactics
•Year 5
•Cricket
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How can effective communication and powerful running help us score more runs in cricket?
Learning Objectives
- To work with a partner to call and score runs effectively
- To develop powerful sprinting technique between the wickets
- To select appropriate shots to direct the ball strategically
Key Outcomes
- Students will communicate clearly with their batting partner to maximise run scoring opportunities
- Students will demonstrate powerful sprinting starts and technique when running between wickets
- Students will show tactical awareness in shot selection and placement
Equipment & Resources Required
Check for damage, appropriate size for students
Alternative: Tennis rackets or rounders bats
Ensure good bounce and visibility
Alternative: Softer practice cricket balls
Securely placed, appropriate height
Alternative: Cones with pool noodles on top
Bright colours for clear boundaries
Alternative: Markers or chalk lines
Placed as targets for fielders
Alternative: Marked circles or targets
Height appropriate for Year 5 students
Alternative: Ground markers for hitting zones
Key Vocabulary
Shouting 'Yes' or 'No' to communicate run opportunities to your partner
The three wooden stumps at each end of the cricket pitch
The safe area marked by white lines in front of the wickets
The batter who is facing the ball and ready to hit
The batting partner who waits at the opposite end
Getting a batter out by breaking the wickets while they're out of their crease
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic batting stance and grip
- Understanding of cricket field positions
- Simple ball striking skills
Current Skills
- Partner communication for run calling
- Powerful sprinting technique between wickets
- Shot selection and placement
Next Steps
- Advanced batting techniques and stroke play
- Fielding strategies to prevent runs
- Match play with complex tactics
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- The strike batter always makes the call as they have the best view of the ball and fielding positions
- Clear, immediate calling is crucial - hesitation leads to run outs and missed opportunities
- Powerful running starts with dominant foot forward and explosive first step movement
- Trust between batting partners is essential - always commit fully to your partner's call
- Communication must be loud enough for your partner to hear clearly over crowd noise
- Running technique focuses on staying low, pumping arms, and maintaining speed throughout
- Strategic thinking involves assessing fielder positions and ball speed before making run decisions
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: 'The non-strike batter should call for runs' - Correction: Strike batter has best view and should make all calls
- Misconception: 'You can change your mind mid-run' - Correction: Commit fully to the original call to avoid confusion and run outs
- Misconception: 'Slow calling is safer' - Correction: Immediate calling gives maximum time for successful completion of runs
- Misconception: 'Always go for two runs if possible' - Correction: Assess risk versus reward based on fielding positions and ball speed
- Misconception: 'Running technique doesn't matter in cricket' - Correction: Explosive starts and proper form can make the difference between safe and out
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide frequent movement opportunities, use clear visual and auditory cues for transitions
dyspraxia
- Allow extra practice time for coordination skills, use larger/softer equipment, provide step-by-step movement breakdowns
autism spectrum
- Provide clear visual schedule of activities, establish quiet zones for breaks, use consistent routines and predictable structure
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of field layout, implement buddy system with sighted partner for navigation
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals alongside verbal calls, demonstrate all instructions clearly, provide written instruction cards for reference
physical disability
- Adapt running distance and speed requirements, allow seated batting positions, modify equipment for easier handling
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Developing clear verbal communication skills, listening carefully to instructions and calls, using specific cricket vocabulary
Maths
Counting runs and calculating team scores, measuring distances between wickets, timing activities and calculating averages
Science
Understanding forces in batting and throwing, exploring motion and speed in running, investigating reaction times
PSHE
Building trust and cooperation with partners, showing respect for opponents, developing resilience when facing challenges
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand where you can see all groups simultaneously, move between activities to provide individual feedback and maintain engagement
Observation Focus
Watch for clear communication between partners, proper running technique, and safe equipment handling throughout
Intervention Points
Step in to correct unsafe practices, support students struggling with communication, and reinforce positive partnerships
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements when showing calling and running techniques, emphasise the connection between good communication and successful runs
Verbal Cues
- •'Clear calls - YES or NO!'
- •'Strike batter makes the decision!'
- •'Powerful first step!'
- •'Trust your partner's call!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m outdoor area with clear boundaries, ideally a cricket pitch or large playground
Surface Check
Even grass or artificial surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check cricket bats for cracks or loose handles before use
- •Ensure tennis balls are not split or damaged
- •Confirm wickets are securely positioned and at appropriate height
- •Verify cones are visible and free from sharp edges
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision between students running between wickets
- •Being struck by ball during fielding or batting
- •Trips and falls during sprinting
- •Overexertion in hot weather
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear running lanes established between wickets with adequate spacing
- •Fielders positioned safely away from batting areas
- •Progressive build-up of intensity throughout lesson
- •Regular hydration breaks if weather is warm
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe multiple activities simultaneously
- •Monitor high-energy activities for signs of fatigue
- •Watch for proper equipment use and safe techniques
- •Ensure adequate recovery time between high-intensity activities
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activities immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required, inform school leadership