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Lesson 5 - Leadership Under Pressure

Leadership in Rounders

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Year 6

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Rounders

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Big Question

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

Rounders Equipment

Place balls in equipment basket accessible to all groups

Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls for modified game

Markers

16 (4 sets of 4)

Set up in diamond formation, 12 metres apart

Alternative: Cones, hoops, markers

Cones

Use for warm-up activity and game boundaries

Alternative: Markers, bean bags

Bibs

14 (two colours)

Clearly distinguish teams during game play

Alternative: Different coloured equipment

Video Device

1 (tablet/camera)

Ensure device is charged and memory cleared

Alternative: Observation sheets for detailed notes

Key Vocabulary

Accuracy

Throwing or hitting precisely to the intended target

Under pressure

Performing skills when time is limited or in competitive situations

Leadership

Taking responsibility for guiding and motivating teammates

Backstop

The player positioned behind the batting square to collect missed balls

Base running

Moving strategically between bases to score points

Communication

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

Throws reach target 80% of the time under pressure

Takes initiative in organising team tactics

Provides clear instructions that teammates follow successfully

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