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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
60

Use 8 cones per rounders pitch to mark bases clearly

Alternative: Markers, base plates, or chalk circles

Hoops
3

Position at bowling area for each group

Alternative: Chalk circles or rope circles

Rounders Equipment
15

Check all bats for damage before use

Alternative: Tennis rackets for easier hitting

Tennis Balls
7

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

1
Consistent accurate stumping under pressure
2
Quick decision making between stumping and returning to bowler
3
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