Lesson 4 - Backing Up and Communication
Fielding & Communication Skills
•Year 5
•Rounders
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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
Distributed among practice groups
Alternative: Tennis balls, soft balls
Set up 20m away, 5m apart for warm-up
Alternative: Markers, bean bags
Mark bases for game practice
Alternative: Cones, mats, chalk circles
To distinguish teams during games
Alternative: Different coloured items
Key Vocabulary
Positioning yourself behind a teammate to stop the ball if they miss it
Talking clearly to teammates to coordinate actions and decisions
Moving safely and strategically between bases after hitting the ball
Seeing what's happening around you without looking directly at it
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
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