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Lesson 3 - Batting Technique Development

Foundations to Champions

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Year 6

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can I use proper batting technique to score consistently in rounders?

Learning Objectives

To develop and apply correct batting technique with increasing consistency
To understand the tactical placement of the ball when batting
To demonstrate good sportsmanship and teamwork during competitive activities

Key Outcomes

Students will execute batting technique with improved accuracy and power
Students will make tactical decisions about ball placement during batting
Students will apply batting skills effectively in game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

Check bats for damage, appropriate size for Year 6 students

Alternative: Tennis rackets for easier batting

Tennis Balls

Use bright coloured balls for better visibility

Alternative: Foam balls for nervous students

Cones

Different colours for bases and boundaries

Alternative: Bean bags or markers

Hoops

Large enough for bowling square positioning

Alternative: Chalk circles or rope circles

Tees

Adjustable height for different student heights

Alternative: Traffic cones with pool noodles

Key Vocabulary

Batting stance

Standing sideways to the bowler with feet shoulder-width apart, ready to hit

Follow through

Continuing the batting swing after hitting the ball for maximum power

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to collect missed balls

Diamond formation

Four bases arranged in a diamond shape around the playing area

Rounder

A complete run around all four bases, scoring maximum points

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of rounders field layout
Experience with hand-eye coordination activities

Current Skills

Correct batting stance and grip
Eye-tracking and timing for batting
Tactical ball placement

Next Steps

Advanced batting techniques (sweep shots, drives)
Batting under pressure in competitive games
Captaincy and team strategy development

Milestone Indicators

Consistent contact with ball using proper technique

Deliberate ball placement to avoid fielders

Confident batting in game situations

Key Teaching Points

Sideways stance is fundamental to successful batting technique
Eye contact with ball throughout the swing is crucial
Follow through determines ball direction and power
Tactical placement beats power in rounders games
Safe spacing prevents injuries during batting practice
Positive encouragement builds confidence in striking skills
Progressive practice builds from simple to game application

Common Misconceptions

Students think facing the bowler square-on gives more power - teach sideways stance for better technique
Belief that harder swings always result in better hits - emphasise timing and technique over power
Assumption that any hit is good - teach tactical placement for scoring success
Thinking batting is just about individual skill - highlight teamwork and supporting others
Misconception that rounders is simple - explain strategy and skill development required

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries and rules, regular position changes, specific roles

dyspraxia

Larger/lighter equipment, simplified technique breakdown, extra practice time, tennis rackets as alternative

autism spectrum

Clear routines and expectations, visual schedule of activities, quiet zones if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and bats, verbal descriptions of field layout, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations and signals, written instruction cards, ensure students can see teacher clearly

physical disability

Seated batting options, adapted grip aids, modified scoring system, shorter distances

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, listening skills during instruction, communication during team activities

Maths

Measuring diamond distances, counting scores, calculating averages, angles of ball travel

Science

Forces in batting (push/pull), trajectory and gravity effects on ball flight, energy transfer from bat to ball

Geography

Spatial awareness, directional language (left/right, forward/backward), mapping field positions

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups to observe technique, position for clear demonstration visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct batting stance, safe equipment handling, and positive group dynamics

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe bat handling or poor technique development

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clarity, demonstrate both correct and incorrect technique for contrast

Verbal Cues

•'Sideways stance!'
•'Eyes on the ball!'
•'Follow through!'
•'Safe spacing!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for multiple activities, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check bats for damage and appropriate size
•Tennis balls properly inflated and in good condition
•Cones positioned safely with no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during batting
•Bat strikes from poor technique or spacing
•Ball strikes to fielders or spectators
•Slips and falls during running

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing guidelines enforced (arm + bat length)
•Controlled bowling pace in all activities
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Constant supervision of bat handling

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups
•Monitor batting areas for safe swing zones
•Check proper equipment handling continuously

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safe