New
New
Year 6

Batting tactics

I can apply different tactics when batting in a rounders game.

New
New
Year 6

Batting tactics

I can apply different tactics when batting in a rounders game.

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: running as fast as possible between bases after striking the ball is vital to try and score a ½ or full rounder.
  2. Move: striking the ball in different directions requires adjusting the angle of our body to face the target (space).
  3. Think: knowing why we should vary the angle and speed of how we strike the ball helps us to score more rounders.
  4. Feel: taking on leadership roles and helping our teammates demonstrates excellent integrity and responsibility.
  5. Connect: collaborating with team mates throughout the game helps us make good decisions and score more rounders.

Keywords

  • Strike - the act of hitting/making contact with the ball

  • Outwit - using tactics and strategies to gain an advantage over our opponents

  • Game - an activity or sport in which people compete with each other according to agreed rules

Common misconception

Pupils often hit the ball too hard when batting, not considering batting accuracy. Pupils hit the ball in the same space every time they bat which, if righthanded, is usually towards 2nd and 3rd base.

Pupils should focus on accuracy and control rather than power. Encourage pupils to change the angle of their bodies, front foot and backswing to help them hit the ball in different directions.


To help you plan your year 6 physical education lesson on: Batting tactics, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

Continue to offer bigger bats and balls if pupils are struggling to make contact with the ball. Soft dodgeball style balls are an excellent alternative to tennis balls.
Teacher tip

Equipment

1 rounders ball between 4 pupils, 1 rounders bat between 4 pupils, rounders bases x 8 or cones, alternative bats/ balls.

Content guidance

  • Risk assessment required - physical activity

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Prior knowledge starter quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
When do you have to stop at 1st base?
Correct answer: after hitting backwards
after hitting forwards
never
Q2.
What happens if a fielder touches the post with the ball before the batter arrives?
1/2 a rounder
nothing
Correct answer: batter is out
Q3.
What bowling technique should the bowler use?
Correct answer: underarm
overarm
a mixture
Q4.
What should you do before throwing/receiving the ball?
jump
Correct answer: communicate
close eyes

Assessment exit quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
How should you run between each base to ensure you get as far as possible?
jogging pace
walking pace
Correct answer: your fastest pace
Q2.
What are teams trying to do when using tactics and strategies to gain an advantage over their opponents?
Correct answer: outwit them
scare them
communicate with them
Q3.
Each time you bat, where should you aim to hit the ball to outwit the fielders?
the same spot
Correct answer: different directions
towards the fielders
Q4.
What does it mean to collaborate with your teammates?
win the game
ignore each other
Correct answer: work together