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Lesson 3 - Backstop Skills & Tactics

Fielding & Communication Skills

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Year 5

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can tactical positioning and quick decision-making transform our rounders game?

Learning Objectives

To develop backstop positioning and quick release techniques
To demonstrate tactical awareness in small-sided rounders games
To apply rules knowledge effectively in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will catch and throw quickly from backstop position
Students will strike with accuracy into designated areas
Students will demonstrate tactical awareness in competitive situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

8 sets (32 posts)

Distribute around pitch perimeters for easy access

Alternative: Tennis balls or bean bags

Cones

Mark boundaries and practice areas

Alternative: Markers or bibs

Bibs

Two different colours for team identification

Alternative: Coloured bands

Key Vocabulary

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to collect balls from the bowler

No Ball

An illegal delivery in rounders that gives advantages to the batting team

Tactical Awareness

Understanding when and where to position yourself and make decisions in game situations

Quick Release

The speed at which a fielder can catch and throw the ball onwards

Rounder

A full score achieved by hitting the ball and running around all four posts

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic catching and throwing techniques
Understanding of rounders pitch layout
Experience in small-sided striking and fielding games

Current Skills

Backstop positioning and quick release
Tactical striking placement
Advanced rules application and tactical awareness

Next Steps

Advanced fielding strategies and communication
Complex game tactics and team coordination
Umpiring and officiating skills

Milestone Indicators

Consistent backstop positioning and release technique

Evidence of tactical thinking in striking placement

Effective communication and team coordination

Key Teaching Points

Backstop positioning with sideways stance enables quick release to first base
Tactical striking requires body positioning adjustment to direct ball placement
Communication in fielding should be clear and from designated leader (usually backstop)
Rules knowledge enhances tactical decision-making in running between posts
Regular position rotation ensures all students experience different tactical challenges
Self-assessment accuracy improves with specific criteria and honest reflection
Game situations provide best context for applying practiced skills

Common Misconceptions

Backstop should face the bowler directly - correct positioning is sideways to enable quick throw to first base
All fielders should shout instructions - clear communication comes from designated leader to avoid confusion
Running outside the posts is allowed - players must maintain contact with posts when not running
Any hit counts for scoring - timing of reaching posts and subsequent play affects final scoring

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Regular position changes, clear boundaries, frequent positive feedback

dyspraxia

Larger equipment options, reduced complexity in initial stages, extra practice time

autism spectrum

Clear routines for position changes, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones available

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls, verbal cues for positioning, buddy system for field placement

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written rule summaries

physical disability

Modified equipment (lighter bats), adapted distances, alternative roles like umpiring

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating scores, measuring pitch dimensions, angles for tactical striking direction

Science

Forces in throwing and batting, trajectory and flight paths of balls

Geography

Spatial awareness, field positioning, directional concepts (left/right)

PSHE

Teamwork under pressure, leadership roles, fair play and sportsmanship

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand between the two rounders pitches for optimal view of both games

Observation Focus

Watch for tactical decision-making, backstop technique, and team communication

Intervention Points

Step in if rules confusion arises or safety concerns develop

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for backstop technique, emphasise body positioning for tactical striking

Verbal Cues

•'Remember your sideways stance!'
•'Quick release to first base!'
•'Think tactically about your hitting!'
•'Communicate clearly with your team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Two full rounders pitches minimum 25m x 20m each, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Flat, dry surface free from holes or debris that could cause falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rounders bats for cracks or splinters
•Ensure posts are stable and properly positioned
•Balls inflated correctly and not damaged

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head/body
•Collisions between players
•Trips from posts or equipment
•Bat-related injuries

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing and hitting areas established
•Adequate spacing between pitches and activities
•Batters maintain grip on bats during running
•Fielders positioned safely away from striking zone

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position between pitches for maximum visibility
•Monitor high-activity backstop areas closely
•Watch for proper equipment handling

Emergency Procedures

Stop play immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid/support, ensure other students continue safely