Lesson 5 - Overarm Bowling Technique
Cricket Basics & Strategy
•Year 6
•Cricket
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can I use precise technique and tactical thinking to become an effective bowler and fielder?
Learning Objectives
- To develop overarm bowling technique with accuracy and consistency
- To apply tactical fielding skills to prevent scoring
- To demonstrate fair play and self-management in game situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will bowl overarm with correct technique to hit wickets consistently
- Students will track and field balls effectively to support their team
- Students will apply tactical awareness in cricket game situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Use for marking bowling positions, boundaries, and target areas
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or small hoops
Ensure appropriate size for Year 6 students, check for damage
Alternative: Rounders bats, tennis bats, or padded implements
Set at appropriate height for Year 6, ensure stable placement
Alternative: Stumps, cones arranged in triplets, or target boards
Use as bounce targets, vary sizes for differentiation
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, or cone markers
Check condition, ensure adequate quantity for group work
Alternative: Soft cricket balls, foam balls for safety
Key Vocabulary
A bowling technique where the arm swings over the shoulder in a windmill motion
The fielder who stands behind the wickets to collect the ball
The complete sequence of movements used to deliver the ball
Bowling with specific aim and placement to hit a target area
Strategic positioning of fielders to prevent runs and take catches
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic underarm bowling technique
- Simple catching and throwing skills
- Understanding of cricket basic rules and scoring
Current Skills
- Overarm bowling technique development
- Tactical fielding and ball tracking
- Game management and fair play skills
Next Steps
- Advanced bowling variations and spin
- Complex fielding positions and strategies
- Full cricket match play with advanced tactics
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Overarm bowling technique: grip, step, number 6 action, straight arm release
- Accuracy through consistent technique rather than increased power
- Communication and teamwork essential for effective fielding
- Fair play and honest self-officiating builds character
- Progressive skill development from basic technique to tactical application
- Practice and repetition improve performance and confidence
- Tactical awareness enhances game understanding and enjoyment
Common Misconceptions
- Faster bowling is always more effective - emphasise accuracy over power
- Bowling technique doesn't matter in games - maintain technique focus throughout
- Only bowlers need to understand cricket tactics - all players benefit from tactical awareness
- Individual skill more important than teamwork - highlight collaborative success
- Competitive games don't require fair play - model and expect honest play always
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries and rules, regular movement breaks, specific role assignments
dyspraxia
- Simplified technique steps, larger targets, extra practice time, visual technique cues
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedules for activities, quiet zones available, predictable routines and structure
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of setup, tactile guidance for bowling technique
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, buddy system for communication
physical disability
- Modified bowling distances, seated bowling positions, adapted equipment or alternative roles
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Scoring systems, distance measurements, angles of bowling delivery, geometric wicket arrangements
Science
Forces in bowling action, trajectory physics, momentum and ball speed, biomechanics of technique
Geography
Field positioning and spatial awareness, mapping cricket field layouts, directional movement
PSHE
Fair play and honesty, teamwork and communication, resilience when facing challenges, leadership development
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between groups during activities, central position for demonstrations, maintain sight lines to all students
Observation Focus
Watch for correct bowling technique, safe practices, positive communication, and tactical understanding
Intervention Points
Step in when technique deteriorates, unsafe practices occur, or conflicts arise
Demonstration Notes
Use slow-motion technique demonstrations, exaggerate key points, provide multiple viewing angles for complex skills
Verbal Cues
- •'Remember the number 6!'
- •'Step with opposite foot!'
- •'Straight arm release!'
- •'Great communication, fielders!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear area for multiple cricket activities, indoor hall or outdoor field
Surface Check
Dry, level surface free from holes or hazards, appropriate grip for cricket movements
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check cricket bats for cracks or splinters
- •Ensure wickets are stable and properly assembled
- •Tennis balls in good condition without cracks
- •Hoops and cones securely placed
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes to body or head
- •Collisions during fielding
- •Trips from equipment or movement
- •Overarm bowling arm strain
Risk Mitigation
- •Controlled bowling speeds with tennis balls
- •Clear spacing requirements between activities
- •Progressive technique development to prevent injury
- •Constant supervision of bowling technique
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all bowling activities
- •Monitor technique to prevent injury
- •Ensure safe equipment handling
- •Watch for fatigue in bowling arms
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid response, contact support if needed