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Big Question

How can accurate throwing help us defend bases and prevent batters from scoring?

Learning Objectives

  • To develop throwing accuracy over short distances for stumping out batters
  • To understand and apply correct positioning when catching for stump outs
  • To demonstrate tactical awareness in choosing when to throw to bases versus the bowler

Key Outcomes

  • Students will consistently throw accurately to hit targets over short distances
  • Students will position themselves correctly to receive balls for stumping
  • Students will apply throwing skills effectively in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls
1 per student (30)

Distributed in equipment bags around the area perimeter

Alternative: Rounders balls, soft balls

Coloured Cones
30 (10 red, 10 green, 10 yellow)

Set in pairs at varying distances, 5-20 metres apart

Alternative: Coloured markers, bean bags

Rounders Equipment
8

4 bases per game area, positioned in diamond formation

Alternative: Cones, markers, hoops

Markers
16

Create 2-metre radius zones around each base

Alternative: Small cones, rope circles

Key Vocabulary

Stumping

Getting a batter out by catching the ball and touching the base before the batter reaches it safely

Accuracy

The ability to throw or aim precisely at a specific target

Base

The four positions (first, second, third, fourth) that batters must reach to score

Fielding position

Where players stand on the field to best catch or stop the ball

Zone

A designated area around each base where special rules apply

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Basic underarm and overarm throwing techniques
  • Understanding of rounders basic rules
  • Experience catching balls at different heights

Current Skills

  • Throwing accurately over short distances
  • Positioning for stumping at bases
  • Tactical decision-making in fielding

Next Steps

  • Advanced fielding strategies and positioning
  • Long-distance accurate throwing
  • Complex game tactics and team coordination

Milestone Indicators

1
Consistently hits target 8 out of 10 times
2
Maintains correct stumping position throughout activities
3
Makes appropriate throwing decisions in game situations

Key Teaching Points

  • One foot must always remain on the base when stumping
  • Point with non-throwing arm for accurate targeting
  • Throw with control and accuracy rather than power
  • Communicate with teammates about fielding intentions
  • Position body ready to react quickly when stumping
  • Make tactical decisions about when to attempt stump outs
  • Maintain sporting behaviour during competitive activities

Common Misconceptions

  • Thinking power is more important than accuracy in stumping situations - emphasise controlled, accurate throws
  • Believing you can stump a batter while they're in the safe zone - clarify zone rules clearly
  • Assuming you must always throw to the nearest base - teach tactical decision-making
  • Not understanding the importance of communication in fielding - demonstrate effective team talk

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Break activities into shorter segments, provide regular movement breaks, use clear and simple instructions
dyspraxia
  • Allow extra practice time, use larger targets initially, provide step-by-step demonstrations with repetition
autism spectrum
  • Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
  • Use brightly coloured balls and larger targets, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, assign sighted partner for guidance
hearing impairment
  • Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, written key points on display board
physical disability
  • Adapt throwing distances and heights, provide seated options for base work, use lighter or larger balls as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Estimating distances for throwing, calculating points scored in games, measuring accuracy percentages

Science

Forces and motion in throwing, effects of exercise on heart rate and breathing

Geography

Understanding spatial awareness, directions and positions on field

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competition pressure, supporting others' learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position where you can see all groups during circuit work, move between games during application phase

Observation Focus

Watch for throwing accuracy improvement, correct stumping technique, and tactical decision-making

Intervention Points

Step in if throwing becomes too forceful, if students struggle with stumping position, or if game rules are unclear

Demonstration Notes

Show exaggerated stumping position for clarity, demonstrate throwing technique slowly for accuracy emphasis

Verbal Cues
  • 'Point and throw!'
  • 'One foot on base!'
  • 'Accuracy over power!'
  • 'Communicate with your team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

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

Surface Check

Even, dry surface free from holes or debris that could cause trips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • Check tennis balls are not too hard or damaged
  • Ensure bases are stable and positioned safely
  • Verify cones are intact with no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • Collisions during fielding activities
  • Ball strikes from poor throwing technique
  • Trips and falls around bases
  • Overexertion during game play
Risk Mitigation
  • Clear boundaries and adequate spacing between activities
  • Emphasis on controlled throwing rather than power
  • Proper warm-up and technique instruction
  • Regular reminders about spatial awareness

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • Position for clear view of all fielding activities
  • Monitor throwing technique to prevent poor form
  • Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
  • Ensure game rules are followed for safety
Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, seek additional help if needed