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Lesson 3 - Fielding Strategy & Decisions

Core Skills Development

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Year 8

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Softball

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58 min

Big Question

How can smart fielding decisions turn defence into attack?

Learning Objectives

To perform the basic pick up technique when fielding with correct body positioning and footwork
To understand tactical decisions about which base to throw to in game situations
To incorporate fielding skills effectively into small-sided games of Softball
To develop knowledge and understanding of essential fielding positions on a Softball pitch

Key Outcomes

Students will execute short and long throw pick up techniques with proper body positioning
Students will make tactical decisions about base coverage during game play
Students will demonstrate improved communication and positioning as fielders
Students will apply fielding skills under pressure in competitive game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Small Balls

12-15 (1 per pair plus extras)

Store in equipment bag at side of playing area, distribute at start of activities

Alternative: Tennis balls for students needing softer option, foam balls for SEND adaptations

Softball Equipment

7 (1 per game area)

Check mitts for damage, ensure correct sizing for Year 8 students

Alternative: Can work without mitts initially, use hands only for catching practice

Bases

12-16 (3-4 sets of 4 bases)

Arrange in diamond formation 15-20m apart for Year 8, secure bases to prevent slipping

Alternative: Cones, flat markers, hoops can mark base positions

Hoops

6-8 (for bat placement and target zones)

Position hoops for safe bat storage during games

Alternative: Cones, chalk circles, ground markers

Cones

20-30 (for boundaries and position markers)

Mark Dangerzone game boundaries and skill practice zones

Alternative: Markers, bibs, painted lines

Bibs

30 (3 colours x 10 for team identification)

Distribute to identify fielders, batters, and waiting teams

Alternative: Different coloured team bands or no bibs with clear team areas

Key Vocabulary

Pick up technique

The proper method of retrieving a ground ball using correct body positioning and footwork

Fielding positions

The strategic locations where players position themselves to defend bases and catch hit balls

Base coverage

Ensuring each base has a fielder ready to receive a throw to get the runner out

Tag out

Getting a runner out by touching them with the ball while they're not on a base

Force out

Getting a runner out by touching the base with the ball before the runner arrives

Ball retrieval

The process of chasing down and collecting a hit or thrown ball

Strong foot/Weak foot

Strong foot is on your throwing arm side; weak foot is opposite side

Tactical decision

Choosing the best option based on game situation, such as which base to throw to

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching techniques from previous lessons
Understanding of Softball rules and base running from Lesson 1 and 2
Awareness of spatial positioning in team games
Experience with hand-eye coordination activities

Current Skills

Short throw pick up technique with proper footwork
Long throw pick up technique with weight transfer
Tactical decision-making for base coverage
Communication and positioning as a fielding unit
Quick transition from fielding to throwing

Next Steps

Advanced fielding positions including outfield play
Double play techniques and coordination
Pitching and catching specialist skills
Full game application with umpiring and scoring

Milestone Indicators

Consistent correct foot positioning when retrieving the ball

Making the right base decision 70% of the time

Smooth transition from pick up to throw in under 2 seconds

Proactive communication calling for the ball and directing throws

Key Teaching Points

Safety protocol is non-negotiable: bat must be placed in hoop immediately after every hit without exception
Short throw pick up uses strong foot beside ball for quick, accurate throws to nearby bases
Long throw pick up uses weak foot beside ball to generate maximum power for distant throws
Body positioning critical: weight back, head over knee, seat back when bending for ball retrieval
Tactical decision-making: assess runner position and ball location before committing to a base throw
Fielding partners must communicate constantly about base coverage and who will make the play
Smooth transition from fielding to throwing position without extra steps improves reaction time and efficiency
Fielding positions should provide maximum coverage with strategic spacing, not clustering around ball

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Strong foot is my stronger foot (the one I kick with).' Reality: Strong foot is on the same side as your throwing arm. Right-arm throwers have right strong foot regardless of which foot they prefer for kicking.
Misconception: 'Always throw to first base after fielding.' Reality: Must assess where runners are and throw to base that will get the out - sometimes that's second or home, not first.
Misconception: 'I should always use long throw technique because it's more powerful.' Reality: Technique choice depends on distance and situation. Short throw for quick close balls, long throw for distant balls requiring power.
Misconception: 'Fielders should all chase the ball together.' Reality: One fielder retrieves while others cover bases ready to receive the throw. Clustering leaves bases undefended.
Misconception: 'Bending at the waist is fine for picking up the ball.' Reality: Must bend at knees and hips with seat back to protect lower back and maintain balance and power.
Misconception: 'Tag outs and force outs are the same thing.' Reality: Force out requires only touching the base with ball before runner arrives (when runner must advance). Tag out requires touching the runner with ball when they're not forced to advance.
Misconception: 'Communication isn't important in fielding.' Reality: Verbal communication between fielders prevents confusion, ensures base coverage, and improves team defence significantly.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Keep activities short with frequent changes maintaining engagement. Provide clear boundaries marked visibly with cones. Regular positive specific feedback. Allow movement breaks if needed. Clear, concise instructions with one-step focus. Use fidget tools during sitting/listening sections. Assign active roles (equipment manager, demonstrator). Minimise waiting time through small group rotations. Visual checklists for multi-step techniques.

dyspraxia

Extended practice time for motor skill development. Break down pick up technique into smaller steps practiced individually before combining. Use larger, lighter balls initially progressing to standard equipment. Reduced throwing distances. Visual markers for foot positioning during technique practice. Verbal cues combined with visual demonstrations. Celebrate small improvements in technique. Allow additional time for equipment management. Pair with patient supportive peer.

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of lesson structure posted visibly. Use consistent routines and signals. Give advance notice before activity transitions. Provide quiet zone if sensory overwhelm occurs. Clear, literal instructions without metaphors. Written rules available for reference. Reduce unpredictability by explaining game scenarios in advance. Allow student to observe before participating if needed. Visual timer showing time remaining in activities.

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment for maximum contrast. Provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations with detailed spatial language. Use bright cones or markers for base positions. Buddy system with sighted peer for initial base running. Consider using audible balls that beep. Reduce playing area size for easier navigation. Provide tactile demonstrations allowing student to feel correct body positioning.

hearing impairment

Ensure student can see your face for lip-reading during instructions. Use visual demonstrations extensively. Provide written instructions or visual cue cards for game rules. Teach basic hand signals for common commands (safe, out, throw home). Position student where they can see most activity. Use visual start/stop signals (flag or lights) instead of verbal whistle. Partner with hearing peer who can relay important verbal information.

physical disability

Modify pick up technique for wheelchair users - focus on ball retrieval from seated position. Reduce throwing distances as needed for strength limitations. Allow underarm throws if overarm not possible. Provide lighter or larger balls for easier grip. Reduce base running distances or allow walking instead of running. Seated batting option from wheelchair. Larger target areas for throwing practice. Additional time for movement transitions.

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Specialist vocabulary development and usage. Following verbal instructions. Giving peer feedback with clear explanations. Articulating tactical reasoning. Listening skills during demonstrations and Q&A.

Maths

Measuring distances between bases (15m). Calculating angles for optimal throwing paths. Geometry of diamond shape. Statistics: counting outs, runs, successful throws. Time measurement for game rotations. Problem-solving: if runner is X metres from base and fielder is Y metres from ball, who arrives first?

Science

Forces: throwing motion generates force to propel ball. Friction: ball slows on ground. Biomechanics: body positioning and weight transfer for power generation. Muscular system: which muscles used in throwing? Cardiovascular system: heart rate changes during warm-up, game, cool-down. Newton's laws of motion applied to ball flight.

Design & Technology

Equipment design: why are mitts shaped specifically for catching? Bat design: weight distribution and grip. Base design: must be visible, stable, and safe. Problem-solving: designing ideal field layout.

Geography

Directional language: forward, backwards, left, right, clockwise base running. Spatial awareness: positioning on field. Mapping: drawing overhead view of diamond and fielding positions. Distance and scale: representing playing area.

PSHE

Teamwork: fielding partners must cooperate. Communication skills: calling for ball, directing teammates. Resilience: persisting when fielding is challenging. Leadership: directing fielding positions. Respect: sportsmanship and fair play. Managing emotions: staying calm under pressure. Self-confidence: trying new skills.

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position centrally where you can observe all practice pairs or game areas. During Dangerzone game, stand at corner for visibility of full field. During 3-base Softball games, circulate between all three game areas, spending approximately equal time at each. During demonstrations, ensure all students have clear sightline.

Observation Focus

Watch for correct foot positioning during pick up (strong vs weak foot). Monitor smooth transition from fielding to throwing position. Check tactical decision-making about base selection. Listen for communication between fielding partners. Observe bat safety compliance every single time. Watch for signs of frustration or disengagement.

Intervention Points

Intervene immediately for safety issues (bat left on ground, dangerous tagging, wild throws). Use freeze technique when you observe teaching moment applicable to whole group. Stop individual pairs to correct technique when significantly incorrect. Prompt for tactical thinking when students making repeatedly poor base decisions. Encourage quiet students to communicate. Redirect off-task behaviour promptly.

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate in slow motion first with verbal narration, then at game speed. Use exaggerated body positioning for visibility. Show incorrect version and explain why it's wrong. Use students as demonstration partners when appropriate to model peer work. Demonstrate from multiple angles if spatial positioning is critical. Repeat demonstrations for complex skills.

Verbal Cues

•'Strong foot beside the ball!'
•'Weak foot for power throws!'
•'Smooth scoop, don't stab at it!'
•'Pivot quickly!'
•'Where's the runner? Pick your base!'
•'Talk to your partner!'
•'Bat in the hoop!'
•'Spread out fielders!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 40m x 30m for three simultaneous game areas with adequate separation. Indoor sports hall or outdoor playing field suitable. Each game diamond requires 15m between bases for Year 8.

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, holes, or debris. If outdoor, check for stones or glass. Indoor - check floor is not slippery and base mats are secured. No water or wet patches that could cause slips.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check softballs for proper inflation and no splits
•Inspect bats for cracks, splits or splinters before use
•Ensure mitts are appropriate size for Year 8 hands and have intact webbing
•Bases or cones must be secured to prevent slipping when stepped on
•Hoops for bat storage positioned safely not in running paths

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Bat strikes - dangerous if bat left on ground or thrown
•Ball strikes - students hit by thrown or batted balls
•Collisions - runners and fielders colliding at bases or during ball chase
•Slips and falls - particularly when running to bases or chasing balls
•Muscle strains - from throwing without proper warm up or using poor technique
•Finger injuries - when catching without mitt or with incorrect mitt positioning

Risk Mitigation

•Mandatory bat placement in hoop after every hit - non-negotiable safety rule
•Clear boundaries established and enforced between game areas
•Adequate spacing between students during skill practice (minimum 5m)
•Progressive skill building from static practice to dynamic game application
•Teach and enforce safe tagging technique - gentle touch not aggressive contact
•Fielders positioned at safe distance from batter during pitch
•Proper warm-up including dynamic stretching for throwing muscles
•Cool-down stretches for recovery
•Technique instruction emphasises proper body positioning to prevent injury
•Mitts worn during games to protect hands

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe multiple game areas simultaneously
•Prioritise supervision of batting areas (highest risk)
•Monitor base running for potential collisions especially at home plate
•Watch for fatigued students whose technique may deteriorate
•Ensure all fielders are alert and watching for incoming throws
•Check students aren't running backwards without looking
•Stop play immediately if unsafe behaviour observed

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately if injury occurs using loud, clear STOP command. Assess injury severity. Provide appropriate first aid following school protocols. For serious injuries, send responsible student for additional adult support. Other students moved to safe area away from incident. Complete accident report form. Contact parents if necessary. Do not move student with suspected fracture or head injury.