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Lesson 8 - Tournament Tactics

Foundations to Champions

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Year 6

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we apply tactics and rules knowledge to succeed in competitive rounders games?

Learning Objectives

To use tactics effectively as a batter, bowler and fielder in competitive games
To apply rules consistently and select appropriate actions for different situations
To demonstrate leadership and teamwork during tournament play

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully apply tactical knowledge in tournament games
Students will demonstrate consistent understanding and application of rounders rules
Students will show effective communication and leadership during competitive play

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Use different coloured cones for each of the three pitches - 12 per pitch for bases and boundaries

Alternative: Markers, spots, or jumpers for base markers

Rounders Equipment

Check all bats are appropriate size and condition before use

Alternative: Tennis rackets for easier batting option

Tennis Balls

One ball per pitch, with spare balls readily available

Alternative: Softer balls for less confident players

Tennis Rackets

6-8

Available for students who need easier batting option

Alternative: Shorter rounders bats

Scorecards

Simple scoring sheets for nominated scorekeepers

Alternative: Whiteboard and pens for each pitch

Key Vocabulary

Tournament

A series of competitive games where teams play against each other to determine a winner

Tactics

Planned strategies used by teams to gain an advantage during games

Pressure

The stress and challenge of performing skills during competitive situations

Round-robin

A tournament format where every team plays against every other team once

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to stop balls that pass the batting area

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic rounders skills (batting, bowling, fielding)
Understanding of fundamental rules and scoring
Experience in modified rounders games

Current Skills

Advanced tactical application in competitive games
Consistent rule application under pressure
Leadership and communication in tournament play

Next Steps

Advanced strategic planning and game analysis
Officiating and coaching younger students
Inter-school competitive rounders

Milestone Indicators

Consistently applies tactics across different game situations

Demonstrates clear understanding of complex rules

Shows leadership qualities during competitive play

Key Teaching Points

Tactical thinking must be applied in all three aspects: batting, bowling, and fielding
Rules knowledge must be consistently applied under competitive pressure
Leadership and communication are essential for tournament success
Risk assessment in batting decisions varies based on game situation
Sportsmanship and fair play are as important as tactical success
Teams must adapt their tactics based on different opponents' strengths and weaknesses
Reflection and learning from games improves future performance

Common Misconceptions

Thinking that aggressive tactics are always better than careful tactics
Believing that winning is more important than fair play and sportsmanship
Assuming that tactics don't matter in rounders because it's 'just about hitting the ball'
Thinking that only the captain needs to understand tactics
Believing that fielding positions should stay the same regardless of the batter
Thinking that tournament pressure means rules can be interpreted more loosely

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Clear roles within teams, frequent position changes, regular positive feedback

dyspraxia

Simplified tactical discussions, additional practice time, larger equipment options

autism spectrum

Clear tournament structure explained in advance, predictable routines, quiet area available for breaks

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, verbal commentary during games, buddy system for base running

hearing impairment

Visual signals for game starts/stops, written rule cards, clear demonstrations

physical disability

Modified batting with tennis rackets, closer base distances, seated fielding positions where appropriate

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Tactical discussions, giving instructions, match reports, vocabulary development

Science

Understanding forces in ball flight, reaction times under pressure, physical exertion effects

Mathematics

Scorekeeping, time management (4-minute games), statistical analysis of tournament results

PSHE

Leadership skills, teamwork under pressure, sportsmanship, dealing with competition

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position between three pitches allowing clear view of all tournament games simultaneously

Observation Focus

Tactical application, rule understanding, leadership development, and competitive sportsmanship

Intervention Points

Step in for rule disputes, unsafe play, or when teams need tactical guidance

Demonstration Notes

Model positive sporting behaviour, demonstrate complex rule applications when needed, celebrate tactical thinking and good decision-making

Verbal Cues

•'Remember your tactics!'
•'Communicate with your team!'
•'Think about the game situation!'
•'Excellent sportsmanship!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 60m x 40m to accommodate three separate rounders pitches safely

Surface Check

Level grass or suitable outdoor surface, free from holes, stones, or other hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all rounders bats for cracks or damage before use
•Ensure tennis balls are in good condition and properly pressurised
•Verify cones are clearly visible and securely placed

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between batters and fielders
•Ball strikes to head or body
•Trips and falls while running between bases
•Collisions between games on adjacent pitches

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between each pitch
•Safe batting distances maintained (minimum 3m from nearest fielders)
•Proper base running technique emphasised
•Tournament rules clearly explained and consistently applied

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position between pitches for maximum visibility of all games
•Monitor batting distances and fielder positioning
•Watch for fatigue affecting concentration and safety

Emergency Procedures

Stop play immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid, contact school first aider if required