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Lesson 3 - Consolidate Fielding Tactics

Tactical Thinking Skills

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Year 6

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can fielding teams work together tactically to prevent batters from scoring rounders?

Learning Objectives

To consolidate and apply fielding tactics in rounders situations
To understand when, where and why to apply specific fielding strategies
To demonstrate accurate throwing techniques under pressure in game scenarios

Key Outcomes

Students will apply consolidated fielding tactics to prevent runs and get batters out
Students will demonstrate tactical awareness in positioning and ball movement
Students will show leadership and teamwork in organising effective fielding strategies

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

6-8 balls

Distributed around playing area for quick retrieval

Alternative: Rounders balls, soft cricket balls

Tennis Rackets

4-6 rackets

Available at batting area for students who need easier hitting option

Alternative: Rounders bats, cricket bats

Markers

4 bases per pitch

Set up in diamond formation with appropriate distances for Year 6

Alternative: Cones, hoops, chalk circles

Sun Markers

8-12 cones

Mark clear field boundaries and safe areas

Alternative: Rope, chalk lines, natural boundaries

Key Vocabulary

Fielding tactics

Strategic positioning and decision-making to prevent the batting team from scoring

Run out

Getting a batter out by touching the base whilst holding the ball before the batter reaches it

Base running

The tactical decision of when to run to the next base or stop safely

Overarm throw

Throwing technique used for longer distances with arm coming over the shoulder

Underarm throw

Accurate throwing technique for shorter distances with arm swinging below shoulder

Fourth base strategy

Tactical decision to throw directly to fourth base to prevent full rounders

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of rounders rules and scoring
Experience with racing rounders format
Basic positional awareness in fielding

Current Skills

Consolidating fielding tactics under pressure
Strategic throwing to prevent runs
Advanced positional play and teamwork
Decision-making in competitive scenarios

Next Steps

Full rounders game application
Advanced batting tactics
Tournament-style competition
Umpiring and officiating skills

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate throwing under pressure

Quick tactical decision-making in game situations

Effective team communication and leadership

Adaptable positioning based on game context

Key Teaching Points

Tactical decision-making is more important than physical power in fielding
Communication between teammates is essential for successful fielding tactics
Throwing accuracy under pressure requires maintained technique and focus
Understanding run-out rules allows for strategic base selection
Fourth base strategy sacrifices points to prevent bigger scores
Leadership and team organisation are crucial for tactical success
Adaptation and learning from observation improves team performance

Common Misconceptions

Always throwing to first base is the best strategy - teach tactical base selection
Harder throws are better throws - emphasise accuracy over power
Individual fielding is more important than team tactics - stress collaborative approaches
Only the closest fielder should make plays - teach backing up and support
Competition means abandoning technique - maintain skill focus under pressure
Tactics are too complex for Year 6 - demonstrate age-appropriate strategic thinking

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear movement boundaries, offer regular feedback

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment, reduce complexity of multi-step tactics, provide additional technique practice

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, visual tactical cards, designate quiet reflection areas

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and bases, provide verbal cues for positioning, implement buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for tactical calls, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Modify throwing distances, provide seated fielding options, adapt bases for wheelchair access

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating distances to bases, angles for optimal throwing, scoring systems and tactical probability

Science

Forces in throwing, trajectory and accuracy, body systems during exercise, physics of ball flight

Geography

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

PSHE

Leadership development, teamwork under pressure, resilience in competition, supporting others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move strategically around groups to observe tactical decision-making and provide immediate feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for tactical understanding, accurate throwing under pressure, and effective team communication

Intervention Points

Step in when tactics break down, safety concerns arise, or students need tactical guidance

Demonstration Notes

Use students as positive examples of tactical play, demonstrate key techniques clearly, show decision-making process explicitly

Verbal Cues

•'Think tactically - which base gives you the best chance?'
•'Communicate with your team before the batter hits!'
•'Remember your throwing technique even under pressure!'
•'Great tactical thinking - you're playing like champions!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor hall or outdoor field minimum 30m x 20m per playing group

Surface Check

Ensure dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tennis balls are in good condition with no cracks
•Ensure base markers are secure and visible
•Verify rackets have no damaged strings or handles
•Confirm boundary markers are stable and safe

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between runners and fielders
•Ball strikes to players not watching
•Slips and falls during quick direction changes
•Overexertion during competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all playing areas
•Adequate spacing between multiple game groups
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Continuous monitoring of competitive intensity
•Clear communication protocols for all activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all playing groups
•Monitor high-activity areas during competitive games
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Ensure safety rules are followed during pressure situations

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required, inform school leadership