Lesson 6 - Field Tactics & Game Play
Tactical Game Intelligence
•Year 5
•Rounders
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How can we use tactical thinking to make it harder for batters to score runs?
Learning Objectives
- To apply tactical thinking when setting a field to limit scoring opportunities
- To recognise and adapt fielding positions for different types of batters
- To distinguish between deep and close fielding strategies and their applications
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate tactical awareness by positioning fielders strategically
- Students will show understanding of different fielding techniques for various positions
- Students will apply game rules consistently while making tactical decisions
Equipment & Resources Required
Extra balls available to maintain game flow
Alternative: Tennis balls or soft cricket balls
Positioned 15 yards apart in diamond formation
Alternative: Cones, hoops, or marked spots on ground
Mark field boundaries, bowling line, and waiting areas
Alternative: Markers or painted lines
Clear team identification for tactical discussions
Alternative: Different coloured PE kit or arm bands
Key Vocabulary
The strategic positioning of fielders to prevent the batter from scoring
Positioning fielders far from the batter to catch long hits
Positioning fielders near the batter to collect quick hits and prevent short runs
Understanding the game situation and making smart decisions
Observing the batting team to identify strengths and weaknesses
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Understanding basic rounders rules and positions
- Ability to catch, throw and field a ball competently
- Experience playing modified rounders games
Current Skills
- Tactical thinking and field positioning
- Reading opposition strengths and weaknesses
- Adapting fielding techniques for different positions
Next Steps
- Advanced tactical awareness in competitive situations
- Leadership roles in organising field settings
- Understanding pressure situations and game management
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Emphasise tactical thinking over physical performance
- Encourage team communication during field setting
- Connect field positioning to batter observation and analysis
- Maintain focus on sportsmanship throughout competitive activities
- Use questioning to develop tactical reasoning
- Provide immediate feedback on tactical decisions
- Celebrate strategic thinking as much as physical success
Common Misconceptions
- All fielders should stand in the same type of position
- Field setting is only needed at the start of innings
- Strong batters always hit to the same area
- Left and right-handed batters hit in exactly opposite directions
- Tactics are only important in professional sport
- Field positions cannot be changed during an innings
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Regular movement breaks, clear tactical focus points, short tactical discussions with immediate application
dyspraxia
- Simplified field positioning initially, peer support for tactical discussions, additional practice time for positioning skills
autism spectrum
- Clear structure to tactical discussions, visual field position guides, predictable game routines
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, verbal descriptions of field positions, buddy system for positioning guidance
hearing impairment
- Visual signals for tactical changes, written tactical cards, clear visual demonstrations of field positions
physical disability
- Modified fielding positions, adapted equipment where needed, alternative roles as tactical coaches
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Calculating scoring systems, measuring distances for field setup, angles and geometry of fielding positions
Science
Forces and motion in ball trajectory, understanding of angles and ball flight paths
Geography
Spatial awareness, positioning and coordinates, understanding of directions and area coverage
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills, decision-making under pressure, fair play and sportsmanship
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central location allowing oversight of all groups, mobility to circulate between activities
Observation Focus
Tactical decision-making, field positioning accuracy, team communication, sportsmanship
Intervention Points
Step in when tactical discussions stall, unsafe play occurs, or rules disputes arise
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements for field positions, involve students in tactical demonstrations, provide real-time tactical commentary during games
Verbal Cues
- •'Think tactically - what type of batter are you facing?'
- •'Remember: close for weak hitters, deep for strong!'
- •'Quick field change - new batter, new tactics!'
- •'Communicate your plan to your team!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m area, larger preferred for multiple games
Surface Check
Level, dry surface free from holes, debris, and obstacles
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Rounders balls checked for damage and proper inflation
- •Bats inspected for splinters or cracks
- •Bases/cones positioned safely without sharp edges
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to fielders or batters
- •Collisions between runners and fielders
- •Slips and falls during quick direction changes
- •Bat-related injuries during batting
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries between multiple games
- •Proper batting technique instruction and supervision
- •Awareness training for fielders about incoming balls
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all game areas simultaneously
- •Monitor high-activity areas around bases during running
- •Watch for fatigue affecting concentration and safety
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activities immediately, assess injury severity, apply appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required