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Lesson 4 - Backwards Hit & Tactics

Tactical Game Intelligence

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Year 5

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can understanding the backwards hit rule give your team a tactical advantage in rounders?

Learning Objectives

To apply the backwards hit rule correctly in game situations
To make tactical decisions as both batter and backstop when the backwards hit rule applies
To develop fielding strategies that exploit the backwards hit rule effectively

Key Outcomes

Students will correctly implement the backwards hit rule during gameplay
Students will demonstrate tactical awareness when batting and fielding under the backwards hit rule
Students will make quick, decisive fielding choices that benefit their team

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

2 bats

Distributed around playing area, extras in bucket for Quick Feet activity

Alternative: Tennis balls or soft rounders balls

Coloured Bibs

10 bibs (5 per group)

Five bibs per group for Quick Feet collectors

Alternative: Team bands or coloured t-shirts

Dish Cones

20-30 cones

Mark 10x10m boxes for Quick Feet and backwards hit lines

Alternative: Flat markers or chalk lines

Ball Collection Bucket

2 buckets

Positioned near thrower in Quick Feet activity

Alternative: Large containers or hoops

Key Vocabulary

Backwards hit

When a batter hits the ball behind the batting line, restricting their movement

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to collect missed balls and make tactical throws

Tactical decision

A deliberate choice made to gain advantage over the opposition

Ball past the line

When a fielder throws or carries the ball beyond the backwards hit boundary

First base restriction

Rule requiring batter to remain at first base until ball passes the line

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic rounders rules and gameplay
Fielding positions and responsibilities
Basic batting and throwing techniques
Understanding of first base safety

Current Skills

Backwards hit rule recognition and application
Tactical decision-making under pressure
Strategic fielding positioning
Quick-fire communication between fielders

Next Steps

Advanced tactical gameplay
Complex fielding strategies
Leadership roles in team tactics
Umpiring and rule enforcement

Milestone Indicators

Correctly applies backwards hit rule without prompting

Makes quick tactical decisions as backstop

Demonstrates patience and timing as batter

Shows understanding of when to exploit the rule

Key Teaching Points

Backwards hit rule only applies when ball lands behind the batting line
Batter must stop at first base and wait for ball to cross the line
Backstop has tactical choices about where to throw the ball
Deliberate backwards hits can be tactical when used appropriately
Good tactical decisions require quick thinking and game awareness
Fair play and sporting behaviour are essential during competitive play
Understanding multiple perspectives helps develop better tactics

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking they can run immediately after any backwards hit - emphasise the waiting rule
Believing backwards hits are always mistakes - show tactical advantages
Assuming backstop should always throw to same position - explore options
Thinking the rule is too complicated - break down into simple steps
Missing the strategic element - connect to wider game tactics
Focusing only on batting perspective - develop fielding awareness too

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent role changes, clear task focus, movement breaks built in, immediate feedback on tactical decisions

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, larger target areas, step-by-step instruction breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual rule charts, predictable rotation patterns, quiet reflection time available, structured role assignments

visual impairment

Use bright coloured cones for boundaries, verbal descriptions of field positions, buddy system for spatial awareness, audio cues for ball crossing line

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all rules, hand signals for key instructions, written rule cards available, partner support for communication

physical disability

Adapted throwing distances, seated fielding positions where appropriate, modified running requirements, alternative participation roles

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Estimating distances and timing for tactical decisions, measuring backwards hit boundaries, calculating angles of ball trajectory

Science

Understanding forces and motion in ball throwing, exploring trajectory paths, analysing speed and distance relationships

Geography

Spatial awareness and field positioning, directional understanding, mapping movement patterns around the rounders pitch

PSHE

Decision-making under pressure, leadership in team situations, respect for rules and fair play, supporting teammates' development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between both game areas to ensure equal supervision, position near backwards hit scenarios during practice

Observation Focus

Watch for accurate rule application, safe tactical execution, positive peer interactions, growing tactical confidence

Intervention Points

Step in if rule misapplication occurs, support students struggling with tactical decisions, ensure safety during competitive moments

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements to show backwards hit boundaries, involve students in demonstrations to maintain engagement, repeat key demonstrations if students seem unsure

Verbal Cues

•'Remember the line - backwards hit rule applies!'
•'Great tactical thinking - explain your decision to others!'
•'Backstop ready - this is your moment to make a tactical choice!'
•'Think before you hit - what's your tactical plan?'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 60m for two rounders pitches, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, adequate grip for running and stopping

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rounders bats for damage before use
•Ensure balls are soft and appropriate for age group
•Cones positioned to avoid tripping hazards
•Posts stable and safe height for students

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between runners and fielders
•Balls striking students during throwing practice
•Trips and falls during rapid direction changes
•Bat contact during batting practice

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between pitches
•Adequate spacing during scenario practice
•Below-knees targeting enforced in warm-up
•Controlled bat use with safety awareness
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of both game areas
•Monitor throwing accuracy during practice
•Watch for safe running lines and fielding positions
•Ensure backstops maintain safe distance from batters

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, maintain calm supervision of other students