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Lesson 1 - Calling For Runs

Core Skills & Tactics

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Year 5

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Cricket

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Big Question

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

Cricket Equipment

15 (1 per pair)

Check for damage, appropriate size for students

Alternative: Tennis rackets or rounders bats

Tennis Balls

Ensure good bounce and visibility

Alternative: Softer practice cricket balls

Cricket Stumps

6 sets

Securely placed, appropriate height

Alternative: Cones with pool noodles on top

Cones

Bright colours for clear boundaries

Alternative: Markers or chalk lines

Hoops

Placed as targets for fielders

Alternative: Marked circles or targets

Tees

Height appropriate for Year 5 students

Alternative: Ground markers for hitting zones

Key Vocabulary

Calling

Shouting 'Yes' or 'No' to communicate run opportunities to your partner

Wickets

The three wooden stumps at each end of the cricket pitch

Crease

The safe area marked by white lines in front of the wickets

Strike

The batter who is facing the ball and ready to hit

Non-striker

The batting partner who waits at the opposite end

Stumping

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

Clear, decisive calling with correct timing

Consistent powerful starts with good running form

Strategic shot placement to create run opportunities

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