Lesson 2 - Tracking and Catching High Balls
Advanced Tactics & Play
•Year 6
•Rounders
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we position ourselves perfectly to catch a high ball and use this skill tactically in rounders?
Learning Objectives
- To track and catch a high ball consistently with correct body position
- To apply catching skills strategically in competitive rounders games
- To demonstrate improved fielding techniques under pressure
Key Outcomes
- Students will position themselves accurately under high balls
- Students will catch high balls with correct hand position and body alignment
- Students will apply catching skills effectively during competitive rounders play
Equipment & Resources Required
Extra balls available at boundary for quick collection
Alternative: Soft-touch balls, foam balls for less confident catchers
Arranged in diamond formation 12 metres apart
Alternative: Sports cones, hoops, or marked areas
Stored safely away from play area when not batting
Alternative: Tennis racquets, cricket bats
Two different colours to distinguish teams
Alternative: Different coloured t-shirts, armbands
Key Vocabulary
Following the path of the ball with your eyes while moving to the correct position
Hands positioned like a cup with fingers spread, ready to catch
Standing directly underneath where the ball will land
Bringing the ball securely to the chest after catching
The urgency to catch and return the ball quickly to prevent runs
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching with two hands
- Understanding of rounders basic rules
- Experience with ball tracking activities
Current Skills
- Advanced ball tracking and spatial awareness
- High ball catching with correct body position
- Strategic application in competitive games
Next Steps
- Catching on the move and under pressure
- Advanced fielding positions and tactics
- Leading team defensive strategies
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Eyes must track the ball throughout its entire flight path for successful positioning
- Correct body position underneath the ball is more important than hand position
- Communication between fielders prevents collisions and ensures team coordination
- Catching technique must be maintained even under competitive pressure
- Progressive skill building develops confidence before applying in game situations
- Positive reinforcement for effort and technique encourages risk-taking and improvement
- Safety awareness and controlled play prevents injuries during dynamic activities
Common Misconceptions
- Students thinking they need to reach for the ball rather than positioning underneath it - emphasise moving feet, not stretching arms
- Believing harder hits/throws are better - explain that controlled, catchable balls lead to more successful practice
- Assuming successful catches are more important than good technique - reward effort and proper form over results
- Thinking catching is only about hands - highlight the importance of body position, balance, and movement
- Believing competitive games don't require technique focus - maintain skill emphasis even during exciting gameplay
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use movement breaks between static activities
dyspraxia
- Simplify movement patterns, provide extra practice time, use larger equipment, break down skills into smaller steps
autism spectrum
- Provide clear visual schedule of activities, establish quiet zones for breaks, use consistent routines and signals
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of ball flight, establish buddy system for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals for game instructions, demonstrate all techniques clearly, establish hand signals for communication
physical disability
- Modify catching positions (seated/supported), use larger/softer balls, adapt throwing distances and heights
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Communication skills for calling catches, descriptive language for technique feedback, following and giving instructions
Maths
Estimating distances and heights, calculating angles of ball flight, measuring pitch dimensions and scoring statistics
Science
Forces acting on balls in flight, gravity effects on trajectory, physics of catching and impact
Geography
Spatial awareness and positioning, understanding of directions and field layout, mapping movement patterns
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, managing emotions in competitive situations
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between practice areas and games to provide feedback and ensure safety, position for maximum visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for correct catching technique, safe fielding communication, and positive team interactions
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe play occurs, provide technique reminders during practice, mediate any conflicts
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for visibility, demonstrate with students for peer learning, break down complex skills into simple steps
Verbal Cues
- •'Track the ball with your eyes!'
- •'Get underneath - like an umbrella!'
- •'Ready hands - make a cup!'
- •'Call 'mine' loudly and clearly!'
- •'Technique first, catching second!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 40m for multiple rounders pitches, clear of obstacles and boundaries
Surface Check
Dry, even surface suitable for running and catching activities, free from holes or debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check tennis balls are in good condition without cracks
- •Ensure bats/racquets have secure grips and no damage
- •Verify cones/posts are stable and visible
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball impact injuries during catching practice
- •Collisions between fielders going for same ball
- •Bat-related injuries during game play
- •Slips and falls during rapid movement
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear communication protocols for calling catches
- •Adequate spacing between practice areas and games
- •Controlled hitting/throwing to prevent dangerous ball speeds
- •Progressive skill building to build confidence
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all catching practice areas
- •Monitor game areas for safe play and communication
- •Watch for signs of fatigue affecting safety
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if needed