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Lesson 6 - Game Play Adaptation & Rules

Leadership in Rounders

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Year 6

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we adapt our game strategy based on different opponents and situations whilst demonstrating fair play and rule understanding?

Learning Objectives

To adapt game tactics according to direct opponent and match situation
To demonstrate understanding of rules and accept decisions with good sportsmanship
To apply tactical positioning based on different batsmen's strengths

Key Outcomes

Students will adapt their fielding positions based on batting patterns
Students will demonstrate fair play and rule understanding throughout games
Students will work as effective team units in competitive situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

4-6

Distributed between groups for continuous practice

Alternative: Tennis balls or foam balls for safety

Markers

16 (4 sets of 4)

Set up two full pitches with correct distances

Alternative: Cones, hoops, or marked spots on ground

Coloured Cones

4 different colours

For assessment activity at lesson end

Alternative: Different coloured bibs or markers

Video Device

Position for clear view of game action

Alternative: Tablet or smartphone with good video quality

Key Vocabulary

Tactical positioning

Placing fielders in strategic locations based on the batsman's hitting patterns

Backstop

Player positioned behind fourth base to stop balls that get past the bowler

Deep fielding

Starting fielding positions further from bases before moving in as needed

Fair play

Playing within the rules, showing respect for opponents and accepting decisions

Game adaptation

Changing tactics and strategies based on the current situation and opponents

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic rounders rules and gameplay
Fundamental fielding and batting techniques
Understanding of base running and scoring

Current Skills

Tactical positioning and game adaptation
Rule interpretation and fair play
Advanced teamwork and communication

Next Steps

Advanced tactical analysis
Leadership in competitive situations
Coaching and mentoring younger students

Milestone Indicators

Students consistently adapt positions during gameplay

Students demonstrate respect for officials and opponents

Students can explain tactical decisions made during games

Key Teaching Points

Tactical positioning must adapt to different batting strengths and weaknesses
Deep fielding positions allow time to read the ball's direction before committing to base
Communication between fielders is crucial for successful teamwork
Understanding rules enhances enjoyment and fair play in competitive situations
Backing up teammates' throws prevents missed opportunities
Self-belief and determination are as important as technical skills
Accepting decisions gracefully demonstrates maturity and sportsmanship

Common Misconceptions

That fielders should always stand close to bases - correct by showing benefits of deep starting positions
That the strongest batter should always bat first - explain tactical considerations for batting order
That arguing with decisions will change them - emphasise acceptance and moving forward
That individual skill is more important than team coordination - demonstrate successful teamwork examples
That winning is the only measure of success - highlight effort, improvement, and sportsmanship

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent position changes, clear role definitions, regular movement breaks, immediate positive feedback

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for coordination skills, simplified instructions, peer support system, modified equipment

autism spectrum

Clear visual timetable of lesson sections, designated quiet space if needed, consistent routines and expectations

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and base markers, provide verbal descriptions of field layout, buddy system for positioning

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for game management, written instruction cards, clear line-of-sight positioning for lip reading

physical disability

Modified throwing distances, seated fielding options, adapted equipment as needed for participation

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating distances for fielding positions, measuring angles for tactical placement, scoring statistics

Science

Understanding forces in ball flight, physics of bounce and spin, reaction times and nervous system

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning, mapping field layouts, understanding angles and directions

PSHE

Leadership skills, accepting decisions gracefully, working as effective team member, resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between the two tournament games to observe different students, position near fielding action during main drills

Observation Focus

Watch for tactical understanding, rule knowledge demonstration, and positive sporting behaviour

Intervention Points

Step in if tactical positioning unclear, rule disputes arise, or safety concerns develop

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements when showing tactical positioning, demonstrate positive responses to decisions for modelling

Verbal Cues

•'Read the batsman - where will they hit?'
•'Communication fielders - call for the ball!'
•'Great sportsmanship - that's how champions behave!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 30m x 40m for two tournament games simultaneously

Surface Check

Dry, level surface free from obstacles, check for any wet patches if outdoor

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Inspect all bats for cracks or damage before use
•Check base markers are secure and visible
•Ensure balls are appropriate hardness for year group

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes from hard hitting
•Collisions between fielders converging on ball
•Slips during quick directional changes
•Overexertion during competitive games

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and adequate spacing between games
•Emphasis on controlled hitting rather than power
•Good communication between fielders
•Regular water breaks and fatigue monitoring

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of both tournament games
•Monitor high-activity fielding areas
•Watch for signs of fatigue during extended gameplay

Emergency Procedures

Stop play immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, have clear access route for emergency services