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Lesson 4 - Stumping Techniques

Foundations to Champions

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Year 6

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Rounders

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1h 2min

Big Question

How can fielders make smart decisions to stump batters and prevent scoring?

Learning Objectives

To learn how to stump a batter out effectively
To develop decision-making skills about when to stump versus when to return to bowler
To apply stumping techniques in competitive game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to stump batters at appropriate bases
Students will demonstrate tactical awareness of when to stump versus return ball
Students will work collaboratively to prevent opposition scoring

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Use 8 cones per rounders pitch to mark bases clearly

Alternative: Markers, base plates, or chalk circles

Hoops

Position at bowling area for each group

Alternative: Chalk circles or rope circles

Rounders Equipment

Check all bats for damage before use

Alternative: Tennis rackets for easier hitting

Tennis Balls

Ensure adequate bounce for game play

Alternative: Soft balls or foam balls for safety

Key Vocabulary

Stumping

Getting a batter out by touching the base they are running towards with the ball

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to collect missed balls

Rounder

A full score achieved by running around all four bases

Half rounder

A partial score achieved by reaching second base safely

Bowling hoop

The designated area from where the bowler must deliver the ball

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of rounders basic rules and scoring
Experience with simple fielding positions

Current Skills

Stumping technique and timing
Tactical decision making in fielding
Team communication and coordination

Next Steps

Advanced fielding strategies and positioning
Bowling techniques and variations
Complex game tactics and team captaincy

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate stumping under pressure

Quick decision making between stumping and returning to bowler

Leadership in organising team fielding strategy

Key Teaching Points

Stump the base the batter is running TOWARDS, not the one they came from
Ball must be in hand when touching the base for a valid stumping
Decision making is key - consider batter position and your position before acting
Communication between fielders is essential for effective stumping
Second and fourth bases are priority stumping targets in rounders
Timing is crucial - act quickly but accurately for successful stumping
Teamwork in fielding is more effective than individual efforts

Common Misconceptions

Thinking you can stump any base regardless of where batter is running
Believing throwing the ball at a base counts as stumping
Assuming stumping is always better than returning ball to bowler
Not understanding the backstop's special role in backwards hits
Thinking all fielders should chase the ball rather than positioning strategically

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with regular role changes, clear, simple instructions repeated frequently, physical activity breaks between discussions

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for stumping technique, larger equipment for improved success, buddy support for complex tactical discussions

autism spectrum

Clear structure with predictable role rotations, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and cones, provide clear verbal descriptions of positions, buddy system for guidance around bases

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for game rules, ensure student can see teacher demonstrations clearly, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Modified stumping from seated position if needed, larger balls for easier handling, reduced distances between bases

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating distances between bases, scoring systems and adding rounders/half rounders, angles of ball trajectory

Science

Forces involved in ball throwing and catching, momentum and energy transfer, body mechanics in running

Geography

Understanding of spatial relationships and positioning, mapping out playing areas, directional awareness

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration, decision making under pressure, respectful competition and sportsmanship

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during activities, position centrally during demonstrations for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for safe batting technique, effective communication between fielders, quality of stumping attempts

Intervention Points

Step in if safety rules ignored, provide support for groups struggling with tactics, extend challenges for advanced groups

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate from position where all students can see clearly, use students as examples when appropriate, repeat key points multiple times

Verbal Cues

•'Communication fielders!'
•'Watch the batter's position!'
•'Touch the base clearly!'
•'Work as a team!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum area 30m x 40m for multiple group activities, clear sight lines between groups

Surface Check

Level grass or sports hall surface, free from holes, wet patches or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all bats for cracks or splinters before use
•Ensure tennis balls maintain adequate bounce
•Position cones securely to avoid tripping hazards
•Check hoops are properly placed and secure

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between running batters and fielders
•Being struck by ball or bat
•Tripping over bases or equipment
•Overexertion in competitive situations

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear running lanes between bases
•Teach proper bat carrying and control techniques
•Ensure adequate spacing between different group activities
•Monitor competitive intensity and intervene if necessary

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all groups simultaneously
•Pay particular attention during batting and ball throwing
•Monitor for fatigue and appropriate rest periods

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, provide first aid as appropriate, contact school office if required