⚾

Lesson 3 - Fast Bowling and Deception

Advanced Tactics & Play

•

Year 6

•

Rounders

•

45 min

Big Question

How can we use speed and deception in bowling to outwit our opponents?

Learning Objectives

To develop fast bowling technique while maintaining accuracy
To understand how to use speed variation as a tactical weapon
To apply fast bowling skills in competitive game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved fast bowling technique with consistent accuracy
Students will show understanding of when and why to use fast bowling tactically
Students will apply speed variation effectively in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

4 sets

Distribute around activity area perimeter

Alternative: Tennis balls, soft cricket balls

Cones

20-25

Mark boundaries and target areas

Alternative: Markers, chalk lines

Hoops

8-10

Use as bowling targets for accuracy practice

Alternative: Hula hoops, chalk circles

Cricket Stumps

4 sets

Use for target practice in warm-up

Alternative: Cones, bottles, skittles

Bibs

15 (different colours)

Distinguish teams during activities

Alternative: Coloured bands, team markers

Key Vocabulary

Fast bowling

Bowling the ball at increased speed to make it harder for the batter to hit

Deception

Using varied speeds and techniques to surprise and confuse the batter

Backswing

The backward movement of the arm before bowling forward

No-ball

An illegal ball that results in extra runs for the batting team

Accuracy

Bowling the ball precisely where intended, usually at the batter's body or a target

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic underarm bowling technique
Understanding of rounders rules and scoring
Experience playing modified rounders games

Current Skills

Fast bowling technique development
Speed variation for tactical advantage
Accurate bowling under pressure

Next Steps

Advanced bowling variations (spin, bounce)
Complex tactical bowling strategies
Tournament-style rounders competition

Milestone Indicators

Consistent fast bowling accuracy to target area

Successful batsman dismissals using fast bowling

Evidence of tactical speed variation in games

Key Teaching Points

Fast bowling technique must maintain accuracy - speed without control is ineffective
Speed variation is more effective than constant fast bowling for tactical advantage
Opposite foot step is crucial for power generation and balance in fast bowling
Smooth arm swing from back to front creates consistent bowling action
Safety awareness is paramount when bowling at increased speeds
Adaptability with equipment helps include all students in fast bowling activities
Tactical understanding develops through game application of varied speeds

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Faster always means better bowling. Correction: Accuracy and variation are more important than pure speed
Misconception: You need to use maximum power for fast bowling. Correction: Good technique with quicker action is more effective
Misconception: Fast bowling is only for advanced players. Correction: All students can learn speed variation within their ability level
Misconception: You can't be accurate when bowling fast. Correction: Practice develops both speed and accuracy together
Misconception: Batters should always try to hit fast balls hard. Correction: Sometimes defending or placing the ball is better tactics

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and rules, offer leadership roles to maintain engagement

dyspraxia

Use larger, softer balls, reduce bowling distance, provide extra practice time, break down technique into smaller steps

autism spectrum

Establish clear routines and expectations, provide visual sequence cards for bowling technique, allow quiet zones if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and targets, provide verbal cues for bowling direction, establish clear audio signals for game play

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations and hand signals, ensure clear sight lines for all instructions, use visual timers

physical disability

Modify bowling distance as needed, allow seated bowling position, use larger or adapted equipment, provide peer support

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development with technical terms, following complex instructions, team communication skills

Maths

Measuring bowling distances, calculating team scores, timing activities, angles of ball trajectory

Science

Forces and motion in ball throwing, acceleration and deceleration, momentum and impact

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when learning new skills, respect for opponents and officials

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at side of playing area for clear view of bowling technique and game play. Move between activities to provide individual feedback.

Observation Focus

Watch for correct bowling technique, appropriate speed variation, safe fielding positions, and positive team interactions.

Intervention Points

Step in if bowling technique breaks down, if players become unsafe, or if game becomes unbalanced due to skill differences.

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion demonstrations for technique. Show contrast between normal and fast bowling clearly. Emphasise safety throughout all demonstrations.

Verbal Cues

•'Opposite foot step!'
•'Smooth arm swing!'
•'Aim and follow through!'
•'Mix your speeds!'
•'Safety first!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m for full rounders pitch, or 20m x 30m for modified games. Clear run-off areas around boundaries.

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas. Check for safe boundary markers.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rounders balls are not split or damaged
•Ensure bats have no splinters or loose grips
•Verify posts are stable and safe height
•Test hoops and cones for damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between players during batting/fielding
•Trips and falls during running
•Bat strikes during batting

Risk Mitigation

•Clear 'heads up' protocol for all throwing
•Safe fielding positions away from batter
•No throwing until all players ready
•Supervised bat handling at all times

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of batting area
•Monitor bowling speed and technique
•Watch for safe fielding positions
•Ensure equipment used correctly

Emergency Procedures

STOP activity immediately if injury occurs. Assess, provide appropriate first aid, seek additional help if needed. Complete incident report.