Lesson 8 - Long and Short Barriers in Cricket
Foundational Skills & Games
•Year 5
•Cricket
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Used for boundaries and wicket markers
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, or chalk lines
Check for damage and appropriate sizes
Alternative: Tennis rackets or rounders bats
Ensure stable and safe positioning
Alternative: Cones or posts with masking tape
Check for wear and bounce quality
Alternative: Soft cricket balls or foam balls
Adjust height for student comfort
Alternative: Traffic cones or adjustable stands
Key Vocabulary
A fielding technique where one foot is placed behind the ball with hands in front, creating a barrier to stop the ball
A low fielding position where the body creates a long barrier with one knee touching the opposite heel
Following the ball's path with your eyes and moving to get in line with it
The fielder positioned behind the wickets who catches the ball and attempts run-outs
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
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