Rounders - Lesson 2

In the second lesson of a Year 4 rounders series, students are introduced to the fundamental skills required for batting. The learning objectives set out for this lesson are for pupils to be able to strike a stationary ball, demonstrate the correct grip on the bat, and understand the roles of fielders and a backstop. The success criteria ensure that by the end of the lesson, students will have achieved these goals. Key vocabulary such as "bat," "field," "strike," and "hit" are highlighted to reinforce the terminology associated with the sport. The equipment needed for the lesson includes cones, tennis balls, tennis rackets, and cricket stumps with 'T's.

The lesson begins with a warm-up where pupils jog around in pairs, passing a ball to each other on a whistle signal, with variations and extensions provided to maintain engagement. The main part of the lesson involves two key activities: Stationary Batting and Tee Rounders. In Stationary Batting, pupils work in groups of four to practice hitting a ball placed on a 'T' on top of a cricket stump, while the fielders collaborate to retrieve the ball and return it to the backstop. In Tee Rounders, the class is divided into groups to compete in hitting three stationary balls and scoring runs. Key teaching points include maintaining the correct batting grip and position, watching the ball closely, and striking with balance. The lesson concludes with a cool-down where pairs practice striking and catching, and pupils reflect on the key aspects of batting in rounders, considering the potential differences when using a rounders bat instead of a tennis racket.