Lesson 5 - Leadership Under Pressure
Leadership in Rounders
•Year 6
•Rounders
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How can we demonstrate leadership skills while maintaining accuracy under pressure in rounders?
Learning Objectives
- To throw with real accuracy when under pressure during game situations
- To play a full game in small groups whilst taking on different leadership roles within the team
- To demonstrate effective communication and leadership skills throughout rounders gameplay
Key Outcomes
- Students will throw accurately to bases under match pressure
- Students will successfully lead teammates through tactical decisions during gameplay
- Students will communicate effectively to coordinate fielding positions and batting strategies
Equipment & Resources Required
Place balls in equipment basket accessible to all groups
Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls for modified game
Set up in diamond formation, 12 metres apart
Alternative: Cones, hoops, markers
Use for warm-up activity and game boundaries
Alternative: Markers, bean bags
Clearly distinguish teams during game play
Alternative: Different coloured equipment
Ensure device is charged and memory cleared
Alternative: Observation sheets for detailed notes
Key Vocabulary
Throwing or hitting precisely to the intended target
Performing skills when time is limited or in competitive situations
Taking responsibility for guiding and motivating teammates
The player positioned behind the batting square to collect missed balls
Moving strategically between bases to score points
Clear verbal and non-verbal signals between teammates
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic throwing and catching techniques with stationary targets
- Understanding of rounders rules and basic gameplay
- Experience working cooperatively in small teams
Current Skills
- Throwing accurately under pressure and time constraints
- Taking leadership roles and making tactical decisions
- Communicating effectively during dynamic game situations
Next Steps
- Advanced tactical awareness and strategic gameplay
- Coaching and mentoring younger students
- Adapting leadership style to different team situations
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Accuracy under pressure requires calm thinking and controlled technique - speed comes from good technique, not rushing
- Leadership is demonstrated through encouragement, tactical decision-making, and helping teammates improve
- Effective communication between fielders is essential for successful tactical play and team coordination
- Base fielders should adapt their positioning based on game situation and batter capabilities
- Self-assessment and goal-setting are crucial skills for continuous leadership development
- Teamwork between backstop and bases requires clear communication and mutual support
- Good leadership involves recognising and developing the strengths of all team members
Common Misconceptions
- That throwing faster automatically means throwing more accurately - emphasise controlled technique over speed
- That leadership means being the loudest or most dominant - teach supportive, encouraging leadership styles
- That fielders must stay in fixed positions - explain tactical flexibility and game reading
- That self-assessment should always be positive - encourage honest reflection for genuine improvement
- That leadership is only for the most skilled players - demonstrate that everyone can lead in different ways
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Use shorter activity segments, provide clear focus points, offer leadership roles to channel energy positively
dyspraxia
- Break down complex movements into smaller steps, allow extra practice time, provide physical guidance for technique
autism spectrum
- Provide clear role descriptions and expectations, use visual schedules for activity progression, allow processing time for tactical decisions
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide clear verbal descriptions of positions and tactics, assign sighted buddy for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals for tactical calls, provide written instruction cards, ensure clear sight lines for lip reading
physical disability
- Modify throwing distances, allow seated or supported throwing positions, adapted equipment as needed
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Clear communication skills, giving instructions effectively, using persuasive language to motivate teammates
Maths
Calculating success percentages, measuring throwing distances, analysing team statistics and performance data
Science
Understanding forces in throwing, trajectory and accuracy, effects of exercise on heart rate and decision-making
PSHE
Leadership skills development, teamwork and cooperation, managing pressure and competition positively
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between groups during activities, position centrally during game play for optimal observation of both teams
Observation Focus
Watch for leadership behaviours, throwing accuracy under pressure, tactical decision-making, and positive communication
Intervention Points
Step in when safety concerns arise, when students need leadership guidance, or when tactical understanding needs reinforcement
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Leadership through positive encouragement, accurate throwing technique under pressure, tactical positioning decisions
Verbal Cues
- •'Show me leadership!'
- •'Accuracy first, speed second!'
- •'How can you help your teammate succeed?'
- •'What tactical decision will you make?'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 40m x 60m outdoor space with two diamond areas, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, adequate run-off areas around bases
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check bats for cracks or splinters before use
- •Ensure balls are appropriately inflated and not damaged
- •Verify base markers are secure and won't cause trips
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Ball strikes during throwing and batting activities
- •Collisions between runners and fielders
- •Overexertion during extended game play
- •Equipment-related injuries from bats and balls
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established around each game area
- •Adequate spacing between activities to prevent interference
- •Progressive skill building from static to dynamic scenarios
- •Clear communication protocols for ball awareness
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of both game areas
- •Monitor high-activity zones around bases
- •Watch for signs of fatigue during extended activities
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, assess injury severity, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safe and supervised