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Lesson 4 - Stumping and Strategic Fielding

Skill Progression & Tactics

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Year 5

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can fielders make smart decisions to prevent batters from scoring runs?

Learning Objectives

To learn how to stump a batter out effectively
To develop tactical awareness of when to stump versus when to return to bowler
To understand positioning and communication in fielding teams

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to execute stumping technique accurately
Students will demonstrate strategic decision-making in fielding situations
Students will show improved teamwork and communication during games

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Use to mark bases, boundaries, and activity zones

Alternative: Markers, spots, or small objects for base marking

Hoops

Mark bowling areas for structured delivery

Alternative: Chalk circles or cone markers

Rounders Equipment

Check for damage, appropriate size for students

Alternative: Tennis rackets for easier hitting

Tennis Balls

Ensure good bounce and visibility

Alternative: Foam balls for safety, cricket balls for challenge

Tennis Rackets

Alternative for students requiring easier hitting

Alternative: Smaller bats for differentiation

Key Vocabulary

Stumping

Getting a batter out by touching the base they are running towards with the ball

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batting area to collect missed balls

Base running

Moving between bases to score runs in rounders

Field of play

The area where the ball can be hit and fielders can move

Half rounder

Score achieved by reaching second base safely

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of rounders field layout
Knowledge of batting and running rules

Current Skills

Stumping technique and timing
Strategic decision-making in fielding
Team communication and positioning

Next Steps

Advanced fielding strategies
Bowling techniques and variations
Full game tactics and team roles

Milestone Indicators

Accurate stumping under pressure

Quick decision-making in game situations

Effective team communication during play

Key Teaching Points

Stumping requires ball possession and base contact simultaneously
Strategic thinking involves anticipating batter movement patterns
Communication between fielders is essential for effective stumping
Decision-making between stumping and returning to bowler depends on game situation
Second and fourth bases are key strategic targets for preventing scoring
Timing and accuracy are more important than power in stumping technique
Teamwork in fielding creates multiple stumping opportunities

Common Misconceptions

Believing you can stump without having the ball in hand
Thinking stumping the current base (where batter is) gets them out
Assuming stumping is always better than returning ball to bowler
Not understanding why third base is rarely a stumping target
Believing speed is more important than accuracy in stumping
Missing the importance of communication in fielding decisions

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Regular movement breaks built in, clear boundaries and equipment zones, immediate feedback and praise

dyspraxia

Simplified equipment like tennis rackets, larger targets for stumping, extra practice time with teacher support

autism spectrum

Clear structure with visual schedule, defined roles and responsibilities, quiet reflection space available if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of field layout, buddy system for positioning

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Seated stumping practice possible, modified throwing distances, alternative equipment like larger balls

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances for pitch setup, calculating scores and statistics, angles and trajectories of throws

Science

Forces in throwing and catching, trajectory and gravity effects on ball flight, body mechanics in stumping technique

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding direction and movement across field

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, fair play and respect for opponents, leadership development and communication skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of activities to observe all groups, position near batting areas during games

Observation Focus

Watch for tactical decision-making, stumping technique accuracy, teamwork quality, and safety compliance

Intervention Points

Step in if safety concerns arise, provide coaching during natural breaks, support struggling groups

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for stumping technique, involve students in demonstrations where safe

Verbal Cues

•'Where is the batter running to?'
•'Communicate with your team!'
•'Ball first, then touch the base!'
•'Think before you throw!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 30m x 40m or full sports hall

Surface Check

Even, non-slip surface free from holes and obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check bats for cracks or splinters before use
•Ensure balls are not too hard for age group
•Verify cones have no sharp edges or damage
•Confirm hoops are stable and won't slip

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between running batters and fielders
•Trips over equipment or uneven surfaces
•Overarm throwing injuries

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between playing areas
•Emphasis on underarm throwing for accuracy and safety
•Safe batting technique taught and enforced
•Adequate spacing between groups during activities
•Clear sight lines maintained for all participants

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Monitor batting areas closely for safe technique
•Watch for appropriate throwing technique
•Ensure equipment is used correctly

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or seek additional support as needed