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Lesson 6 - Advanced Fielding and Game Tactics

Fielding & Communication Skills

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Year 5

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we use smart fielding positions and teamwork to control the game in rounders?

Learning Objectives

To adapt fielding positions and tactics according to different batters and game situations
To demonstrate accurate fielding and throwing skills under competitive pressure
To show understanding of rounders rules and accept umpire decisions with good sportsmanship

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to adjust their fielding positions based on the batter's style and game situation
Students will demonstrate improved accuracy in catching, throwing and backing up under pressure
Students will show respect for rules and decisions while playing competitive rounders games

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

4-6 bats

Distributed between groups and spare balls for activities

Alternative: Tennis balls or softball-sized foam balls

Markers

16 markers (4 sets of 4 bases)

Set up two full rounders courts with proper distances

Alternative: Cones, flat markers, or chalk circles

Coloured Cones

4 different colours

Used for assessment activity in conclusion

Alternative: Coloured spots or markers

Video Device

1 tablet or camera

For recording game play to support assessment judgements

Alternative: Smartphone with video capability

Key Vocabulary

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to collect missed balls

Backing up

Supporting a fielder by positioning behind them to collect overthrows

Deep fielding

Starting far from the bases then moving in as the ball is bowled

Ground fielding

Collecting a ball that has bounced or rolled along the ground

Tactical positioning

Choosing where to stand based on the batter's strengths and weaknesses

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic catching and throwing techniques
Understanding of rounders court layout
Knowledge of basic rounders rules

Current Skills

Tactical fielding positioning
Accurate throwing under pressure
Game reading and adaptation

Next Steps

Advanced batting techniques
Leadership in competitive situations
Coaching and umpiring skills

Milestone Indicators

Consistently chooses appropriate fielding positions

Maintains accuracy when under competitive pressure

Shows positive attitude towards rules and decisions

Key Teaching Points

Deep fielding positions allow better coverage of the field area
Communication between fielders is essential for successful team play
Accurate throwing under pressure requires practice and confidence
Backing up prevents runs being scored from overthrows
Good sportsmanship and rule acceptance are as important as skill development
Tactical awareness develops through game experience and reflection
Self-assessment helps students understand their own learning progress

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking fielders should always start on bases rather than using deep positions
Believing that fastest runners should always bat first regardless of hitting ability
Assuming that backing up is only needed for poor throwers rather than being essential for all plays
Thinking that arguing with decisions shows passion rather than poor sportsmanship
Believing that individual skill is more important than team tactics and cooperation

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear role definitions, use positive reinforcement frequently

dyspraxia

Use larger balls for easier catching, reduce complexity of movements, provide extra practice time and encouragement

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of lesson activities, allow breaks if overwhelmed, use consistent routines and signals

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and bases, provide verbal descriptions of field layout, assign sighted buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual signals for game start/stop, provide written game rules, ensure student can see teacher demonstrations

physical disability

Modify running distances, allow batting from seated position, adapt throwing distances to ability level

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills, explaining tactics, and giving constructive feedback to team mates

Science

Understanding forces in throwing, angles of trajectory, and body systems during exercise

Geography

Spatial awareness, positioning, and understanding field layouts and boundaries

PSHE

Teamwork, resilience, fair play, respect for rules and accepting decisions

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during practices, central position during games for clear observation of both courts

Observation Focus

Tactical decision-making, accuracy under pressure, rule understanding, and positive sportsmanship

Intervention Points

Step in for safety concerns, rule clarifications, tactical coaching, or behaviour management

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Ground fielding technique with body behind ball, accurate throwing technique, positive reactions to decisions

Verbal Cues

•'Watch the ball into your hands!'
•'Think about where to throw before you catch!'
•'Great backing up - always be ready!'
•'Show me your best sportsmanship!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 60m for two rounders courts plus warm-up space

Surface Check

Even grass or tarmac surface, free from holes, debris, or wet patches

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all bats for cracks or damage before use
•Ensure balls are properly inflated and not split
•Verify base markers are secure and visible
•Camera/recording device used safely away from play

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between fielders and runners
•Bat contact injuries
•Slips and falls during running

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing zones established away from other groups
•Batters must check area is clear before swinging
•Fielders maintain safe distances during batting
•Progressive skill building reduces injury risk

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all batting areas
•Monitor competitive emotions during tournament
•Ensure safe equipment collection and storage
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop all play immediately, assess injury severity, apply appropriate first aid, contact school first aider if needed