Lesson 4 - Stumping and Strategic Fielding
Skill Progression & Tactics
•Year 5
•Rounders
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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
Use to mark bases, boundaries, and activity zones
Alternative: Markers, spots, or small objects for base marking
Mark bowling areas for structured delivery
Alternative: Chalk circles or cone markers
Check for damage, appropriate size for students
Alternative: Tennis rackets for easier hitting
Ensure good bounce and visibility
Alternative: Foam balls for safety, cricket balls for challenge
Alternative for students requiring easier hitting
Alternative: Smaller bats for differentiation
Key Vocabulary
Getting a batter out by touching the base they are running towards with the ball
The fielder positioned behind the batting area to collect missed balls
Moving between bases to score runs in rounders
The area where the ball can be hit and fielders can move
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
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