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Lesson 4 - Backing Up and Communication

Fielding & Communication Skills

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Year 5

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can effective communication and backing up transform our fielding performance?

Learning Objectives

To develop backing up skills in the outfield
To improve communication between batsmen when running between bases
To understand rules when batting and running between bases

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully back up fellow fielders in appropriate positions
Students will communicate effectively with teammates during batting sequences
Students will demonstrate understanding of batting and base running rules

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

Distributed among practice groups

Alternative: Tennis balls, soft balls

Cones

30 (6 per group)

Set up 20m away, 5m apart for warm-up

Alternative: Markers, bean bags

Markers

8 sets

Mark bases for game practice

Alternative: Cones, mats, chalk circles

Bibs

To distinguish teams during games

Alternative: Different coloured items

Key Vocabulary

Backing up

Positioning yourself behind a teammate to stop the ball if they miss it

Communication

Talking clearly to teammates to coordinate actions and decisions

Base running

Moving safely and strategically between bases after hitting the ball

Peripheral vision

Seeing what's happening around you without looking directly at it

First bounce throw

Throwing the ball so it bounces once before reaching the target

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching techniques
Understanding of rounders field positions
Simple communication skills during games

Current Skills

Backing up fielding positions effectively
Strategic communication during batting
Application of batting and base running rules

Next Steps

Advanced tactical fielding strategies
Leadership roles in team communication
Umpiring and officiating skills

Milestone Indicators

Students consistently back up without prompting

Clear, decisive communication between batsmen

Accurate application of rules in game situations

Key Teaching Points

Backing up fielders should position themselves 10 yards behind in line with the throw
Communication between batsmen should be clear, loud, and decisive about base running
First bounce throws are more accurate and give receivers time to position
Peripheral vision helps players maintain awareness while focusing on their task
Skill linking means connecting individual techniques into smooth game sequences
The backstop should direct the fielding team about which base to target
Tactical understanding develops through practice and reflection on game situations

Common Misconceptions

That backing up means just standing behind someone - it requires active positioning and anticipation
That shouting loudly is good communication - clarity and specific instructions are more important
That throwing hard is always better - controlled accuracy is more effective in rounders
That individual skills don't matter in team games - personal technique affects team performance
That only the captain should communicate - all players need to talk to teammates
That backing up is only needed for poor fielders - even excellent players need support

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear and frequent feedback, use physical activity to channel energy positively

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment for easier handling, provide extra practice time for skill sequences, break down complex movements into steps

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine for activities, use visual schedules for game sequences, offer quiet zones for overstimulation

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of field positions, use buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use visual signals and hand gestures for communication drills, provide written instructions for game rules, pair with hearing partner

physical disability

Modify throwing distances and techniques as needed, provide seated fielding options, use larger or softer balls

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Clear verbal communication, giving instructions, vocabulary development for sports terms

Maths

Calculating scores and points systems, measuring distances for backing up positions, angles of throwing

Science

Forces in throwing, trajectory and bounce physics, reaction times and decision making

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, reading field layouts and tactical maps

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, communication skills, supporting others under pressure

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the area to observe all groups, position for maximum visibility during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for communication quality, backing up positioning, and skill linking in game situations

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggle with tactical concepts or safety issues arise

Demonstration Notes

Use student demonstrators for backing up positioning, emphasise communication volume and clarity

Verbal Cues

•'Get in line behind!'
•'Call to your partner!'
•'One bounce, nice and controlled!'
•'Where should you be backing up?'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 30m, or sports hall with adequate ceiling height

Surface Check

Even surface free from holes, stones, or standing water

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rounders balls are not cracked or damaged
•Ensure bats have secure grips and no splinters
•Verify base markers are stable and visible
•Check cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes from poor throwing technique
•Collisions during crossing patterns in warm-up
•Trips and falls during base running
•Overexertion during game activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and throwing zones established
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Emphasis on controlled technique over power
•Regular checks on student fatigue and hydration

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all throwing activities
•Monitor crossing patterns during warm-up closely
•Stay mobile during game play to observe all areas
•Be alert for signs of competitive overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safely occupied