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Lesson 2 - Introduction to Full Rounders

Tactical Thinking Skills

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Year 6

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Rounders

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Big Question

How can we use tactical thinking and precise fielding to control the game of rounders?

Learning Objectives

To understand and apply the full rules of rounders in game situations
To develop accurate throwing and catching skills under pressure
To make tactical decisions about fielding positions and batting strategies

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate understanding of full rounders rules through gameplay
Students will show improved accuracy in throwing and catching during competitive play
Students will work collaboratively to develop effective team tactics

Equipment & Resources Required

Rounders Equipment

3-4

One bat per game, extras for rotation

Alternative: Tennis rackets, cricket bats

Tennis Balls

Two balls per game for continuous play

Alternative: Rounders balls, foam balls

Markers Cones

Four bases per game, set 12-15 metres apart

Alternative: Hoops, markers, chalk circles

Bibs

Different colours for batting and fielding teams

Alternative: Coloured bands, team shirts

Key Vocabulary

Rounder

A point scored when a batter successfully runs around all four bases

Half-rounder

Half a point scored for reaching 2nd or 3rd base, or 4th base without hitting the ball

Run out

When a fielder touches a base whilst holding the ball before the batter reaches it

Backstop

The fielder positioned behind the batter to collect the ball

No ball

An illegal delivery that cannot result in the batter being caught out

Outward area

The area in front of an imaginary line between 1st and 3rd bases

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching skills
Understanding of racing rounders
Simple striking with bat or hand
Concept of teams and turn-taking

Current Skills

Full rounders rules application
Tactical fielding positioning
Accurate throwing under pressure
Strategic batting decisions

Next Steps

Advanced rounders tactics
Leadership and coaching roles
Tournament play and officiating
Transfer skills to cricket and softball

Milestone Indicators

Consistently applies rules without reminders

Makes quick, accurate throws to prevent runs

Demonstrates clear tactical thinking

Shows leadership in team organisation

Key Teaching Points

Batters must assess the field before deciding whether to run or stop at bases
Fielders should position tactically based on the batter's strengths and weaknesses
Communication between fielders is essential for successful run-outs and team coordination
Accurate, quick throwing under pressure separates good fielders from great ones
Understanding scoring variations (whole vs half rounders) affects tactical decisions
The backwards hit rule requires patience and tactical awareness from batters
Team captains must involve all players in tactical planning and position allocation

Common Misconceptions

Thinking all runs must be completed in one attempt like racing rounders
Believing that running immediately is always the best strategy regardless of field position
Assuming all fielders should run towards the ball rather than maintaining positional responsibility
Confusion about when half-rounders vs full rounders are scored
Not understanding that communication is as important as physical skill in team success
Thinking that the game is purely about individual batting and catching rather than team tactics

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use movement breaks as rewards

dyspraxia

Use larger, lighter balls, reduce throwing distances, provide extra practice time for catching, simplify multi-step instructions

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure with visual sequence cards, establish calm zones away from main activity, use consistent routines and language

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and bases, provide audio cues for ball direction, assign sighted buddy for positioning guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for game instructions, provide written rule summary, ensure clear sight lines for lip reading

physical disability

Adapt throwing distances, allow seated batting position, modify running requirements to walking or wheeling

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculating rounders scores including fractions (half-rounders), measuring distances between bases, angles for throwing

Science

Forces in throwing and catching, trajectory and gravity affecting ball flight, body systems working during exercise

Geography

Understanding spatial awareness and positioning, mapping field layouts, directions and compass points

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, dealing with competition pressure, showing respect for opponents and officials

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between the three games constantly, spending approximately 2 minutes with each group before rotating

Observation Focus

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

Intervention Points

Step in if rules are being misapplied, if safety standards drop, or if any student becomes excluded from participation

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate from side-on position for throwing, exaggerate ready fielding position for visibility, model positive communication throughout

Verbal Cues

•'Look for the gap in the field!'
•'Quick release after catching!'
•'Communicate with your team!'
•'Make that decision quickly!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 30m x 40m per game, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Even ground surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check bats for damage - no splinters or cracks
•Ensure balls are properly inflated and not split
•Verify base markers are secure and visible
•Team bibs clean and appropriate size

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between players
•Trips and falls while running
•Bat contact with players
•Overexertion in competitive environment

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between games
•Adequate spacing between fielders and batters
•Controlled bat swinging with awareness of others
•Progressive skill building before full competition
•Regular hydration breaks in warm weather

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all three games
•Monitor batting technique to prevent dangerous swings
•Watch for fatigue affecting concentration
•Ensure competitive spirit remains positive

Emergency Procedures

Stop play immediately for any injury, assess and provide appropriate first aid, clear communication with school first aid protocols