Lesson 3 - Fielding & Batting Tactics
Skill Integration & Mastery
•Year 5
•Cricket
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How do we use different fielding techniques and batting calls to prevent runs and ensure safe running between wickets?
Learning Objectives
- To perform a range of fielding techniques confidently and consistently
- To bowl with a run up using correct technique
- To demonstrate tactical awareness when batting and fielding
Key Outcomes
- Students will execute long barrier technique with correct body positioning
- Students will bowl with controlled run up and accurate delivery
- Students will use appropriate calls when running between wickets
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed among groups for activities
Alternative: Foam balls for beginners, rubber balls for outdoor use
Positioned at safe distances apart
Alternative: Traffic cones, plastic bottles with sand
Used for boundaries, targets, and safety zones
Alternative: Markers, bean bags
For warm-up activity identification
Alternative: Bean bags, soft balls
Set up at appropriate heights for Year 5
Alternative: Cones, skittles
Key Vocabulary
A fielding technique where the fielder gets down on one knee to create a barrier with their body to stop the ball
The line that marks the safe area for batsmen and the line bowlers must not cross when delivering
The approach a bowler takes before delivering the ball to build momentum and accuracy
A batting stroke where the ball is hit straight back past the bowler
The batsman who is at the opposite end and not currently facing the bowler
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching techniques
- Understanding of cricket batting stance
- Knowledge of basic cricket rules
Current Skills
- Long barrier fielding technique
- Bowling with run up and follow through
- Tactical batting calls and running between wickets
Next Steps
- Advanced fielding positions and strategies
- Bowling variation techniques (spin, pace)
- Complex tactical game situations
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Long barrier technique: 90-degree body angle with opposite knee down creates strongest fielding position
- Straight drive batting: Head movement leads the shot, foot placement next to ball, straight swing through
- Bowling run up: Controlled approach builds rhythm and accuracy, sideways-on position essential for power
- Batting calls: Clear communication prevents run outs - striker calls for balls in front, non-striker for balls behind
- Safety awareness: Equipment handling, spatial awareness, and following safety protocols protects all participants
- Progressive skill development: Master basic technique before adding pressure and complexity
- Tactical understanding: Connect individual skills to game situations and team success
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: 'Fielding with two hands is slower' - Correction: Two hands provide security and enable quicker, more accurate throws
- Misconception: 'Running faster makes better bowling' - Correction: Controlled rhythm and consistent approach are more important than speed
- Misconception: 'Always run when you hit the ball' - Correction: Smart calling based on where ball goes prevents run outs
- Misconception: 'Long barrier is only for slow balls' - Correction: Technique works for all speeds when mastered properly
- Misconception: 'Batting is just about hitting hard' - Correction: Placement and technique are more important than power
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts within stations, clear movement boundaries, regular positive feedback, leadership roles to maintain engagement
dyspraxia
- Larger, lighter equipment, simplified movement patterns, additional practice time, step-by-step technique breakdown
autism spectrum
- Clear visual timetable of rotations, quiet zones for breaks, consistent routines, advance warning of activity changes
visual impairment
- Bright coloured balls and equipment, audible boundaries (bells on cones), detailed verbal descriptions of all activities, buddy system with sighted partner
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations emphasised, hand signals for batting calls, written instruction cards, ensure face-to-face communication
physical disability
- Seated batting positions available, modified bowling distances, larger target areas, adapted equipment as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Communication skills through batting calls, vocabulary development, listening and following instructions
Maths
Scoring systems, angles for batting shots, distances for fielding positions, time management during rotations
Science
Forces in bowling (momentum, trajectory), friction in fielding, physics of ball flight and bounce
PSHE
Teamwork, resilience in competitive situations, fair play, supporting others' learning and development
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position allowing oversight of all three stations, rotate to provide specific technical feedback
Observation Focus
Technique development, safety awareness, tactical understanding, and peer cooperation
Intervention Points
Step in for safety concerns, technique corrections, and tactical guidance during game phase
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements to show techniques clearly, involve students in demonstrations, relate to professional cricket examples
Verbal Cues
- •'Head first, then foot!' for batting technique
- •'Get that knee down!' for long barrier
- •'Look at your target!' for bowling
- •'Call clearly!' for batting communication
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 30m, or indoor hall with high ceiling for bowling practice
Surface Check
Even surface free from holes, debris, and wet patches that could cause slips
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Cricket balls checked for damage (soft balls preferred for Year 5)
- •Bats inspected for splits or loose handles
- •Wickets stable and appropriate height
- •Cones have no sharp edges or cracks
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to head or body
- •Collisions between students during running
- •Trips from equipment on ground
- •Overarm throwing injuries
Risk Mitigation
- •Safe distances maintained at all activities (minimum 20m for batting)
- •Soft balls used for all activities
- •Clear boundaries and lanes marked
- •Underarm throwing technique enforced
- •Adult supervision at each station
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear sight lines across all activities
- •Rotate between stations to provide specific feedback
- •Monitor high-risk activities (batting and bowling) more closely
Emergency Procedures
Clear stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, adult trained in sports injury response