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      Game understanding focused on if the batter misses or hits the ball backwards

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can demonstrate effective fielding skills if the batter misses the ball or hits the ball backwards in a rounders game.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: as a backstop, having our hands ready in case the batter misses the ball means we can throw quickly to first base.
      2. Think: choosing which base to throw the ball to can stop the batters from scoring rounders.
      3. Feel: congratulating the opposing team and our own team when performing well, shows we can play the game with integrity.
      4. Connect: communicating with our teammates before throwing and receiving the ball demonstrates good cooperation skills.

      Keywords

      • Bowling - the action of accurately delivering the ball underarm by the bowler to the batter

      • Backstop - the fielder who stands behind the batter

      • Run out - a batter is out if the fielder touches the post with the ball (or holding the ball) before the batter has touched the post

      Common misconception

      Pupils are often too slow to throw from backstop to 1st base when trying to run the batter out, resulting in the batter being able to continue running around the bases.

      When backstop has the ball, they need to react quickly and focus on a flat, hard throw to 1st base to try and run the batter out.

      Teacher tip

      It can be difficult for both the batting and fielding team to remember all the rules involved. Focusing on one rule in each cylce, before bringing them together, will help pupils to grasp them. Ensure fielders stand on the inside of the bases, allowing batters to run on the outside.

      Equipment

      1 ball between 3 pupils, 1 bat between 6 pupils, rounders bases, 30+ cones, alternate balls.

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      How many bases are there on a rounders pitch?

      3
      2
      Correct answer: 4

      Q2.
      What will the long and short barrier technique help you do?

      score rounders
      Correct answer: stop the ball
      catch the ball

      Q3.
      How can you demonstrate motivation when playing with your team?

      Correct answer: setting high standards
      winning
      trying a little

      Q4.
      Which increases the chance of team tactics being successful?

      Correct answer: good communication
      keeping them secret
      self-motivation

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which player’s role is to stand behind the batter and stop any missed shots or backward hits?

      Correct Answer: backstop, back stop, the backstop, the back stop

      Q2.
      If you hit the ball backwards, which base must you stop at until the ball comes forward?

      2nd
      3rd
      Correct answer: 1st

      Q3.
      In order to run the batter out at 1st base, what does the backstop need to do if the ball is missed by the batter?

      Correct answer: react quickly
      hold the ball
      throw slowly

      Q4.
      What is a good example of playing the game with integrity?

      always winning
      ignoring the opposition
      Correct answer: congratulating both teams

      To help you plan your 6 physical education lesson on: Game understanding focused on if the batter misses or hits the ball backwards, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...