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Lesson 8 - Long and Short Barriers in Cricket

Foundational Skills & Games

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Year 5

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Cricket

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45 min

Big Question

How can we master fielding barriers to become unstoppable cricket defenders?

Learning Objectives

To develop accurate long and short barrier fielding techniques
To apply fielding barriers effectively in game situations
To demonstrate strategic positioning and communication as fielders

Key Outcomes

Students will execute long and short barriers with correct body positioning
Students will select appropriate barrier techniques based on game context
Students will demonstrate effective communication and teamwork during fielding

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Used for boundaries and wicket markers

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, or chalk lines

Cricket Equipment

Check for damage and appropriate sizes

Alternative: Tennis rackets or rounders bats

Cricket Wickets

Ensure stable and safe positioning

Alternative: Cones or posts with masking tape

Tennis Balls

Check for wear and bounce quality

Alternative: Soft cricket balls or foam balls

Tees

Adjust height for student comfort

Alternative: Traffic cones or adjustable stands

Key Vocabulary

Short Barrier

A fielding technique where one foot is placed behind the ball with hands in front, creating a barrier to stop the ball

Long Barrier

A low fielding position where the body creates a long barrier with one knee touching the opposite heel

Tracking

Following the ball's path with your eyes and moving to get in line with it

Wicket-keeper

The fielder positioned behind the wickets who catches the ball and attempts run-outs

Stumped

A method of dismissal where the wicket-keeper removes the bails while the batter is out of their crease

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic ball tracking and watching skills
Understanding of cricket field positions
Experience with simple catching and throwing

Current Skills

Mastering long and short barrier techniques
Applying barriers in game situations
Developing tactical fielding awareness

Next Steps

Advanced fielding techniques like diving stops
Wicket-keeping skills and positioning
Strategic field placement and captaincy

Milestone Indicators

Consistently stops rolling balls using correct barrier

Moves quickly to get behind the ball

Selects appropriate technique based on ball speed and direction

Key Teaching Points

Body positioning is crucial - get behind the ball for all fielding techniques
Track the ball from bowler to fielder - eyes never leave the ball
Communication between teammates prevents confusion and improves performance
Short barriers for controlled situations, long barriers for challenging balls
Progressive skill development from static practice to dynamic game application
Positive reinforcement builds confidence and technique improvement
Fair play and respect are as important as technical skill development

Common Misconceptions

Thinking fielding is passive - emphasise active, athletic movement and positioning
Facing the ball square-on instead of sideways - demonstrate correct angles
Believing technique isn't important in games - show how technique enables success
Focusing only on catching - barriers are equally important fielding skills
Not understanding the backup role of barriers - emphasise defensive security

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with clear transitions, immediate feedback, movement-based learning, defined boundaries

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, larger equipment, step-by-step skill breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear routines and structure, visual schedules for rotations, quiet zones available, predictable activity patterns

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, peer support for communication

physical disability

Seated fielding positions, modified barrier techniques using available mobility, adapted equipment as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills, following and giving instructions, descriptive vocabulary for cricket actions

Maths

Measuring distances for wickets and boundaries, counting balls and runs, calculating averages and scores

Science

Forces and motion in ball movement, impact and friction in fielding, body mechanics in barrier techniques

Geography

Field positioning and spatial awareness, understanding angles and directions for fielding

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all groups, position centrally during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for correct barrier technique, safe equipment use, positive team interactions

Intervention Points

Step in when safety concerns arise, technique needs correction, or conflict resolution required

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Exaggerate key technique points, use slow motion for clarity, model excellent sportsmanship

Verbal Cues

•'Track the ball all the way to your hands!'
•'Get your body behind the ball!'
•'Communicate with your partner!'
•'Sideways stance for short barrier!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m, clear of obstacles with defined boundaries

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for running and sliding movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Cricket bats checked for damage and appropriate weight/size
•Tennis balls inspected for wear and proper bounce
•Wickets stable and positioned safely away from traffic areas

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes from batting and throwing
•Collision between students during running
•Slips and falls during fielding movements
•Equipment contact injuries

Risk Mitigation

•Clear game boundaries established with adequate spacing
•Controlled bowling within designated zones
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Emphasis on awareness and communication

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to oversee all game areas simultaneously
•Monitor high-activity zones during batting practice
•Ensure proper technique to prevent injury

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school procedures as needed