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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can perform the role of bowler and backstop to help develop my fielding skills in racing rounders.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: step forwards with the opposite foot to throwing arm, eyes on the target and follow through to ensure a good bowl.
      2. Move: a backstop must position themselves behind the batter with hands up to receive the ball.
      3. Think: a good ball involves the ball travelling through the batting square above the knee and below the shoulder.
      4. Feel: we demonstrate resilience when working hard to improve our bowling or backstop technique.
      5. Connect: asking teammates to help when we are struggling with our technique shows that we have excellent trust.

      Keywords

      • Underarm throw - throwing the ball from below the shoulder level

      • Bowling - throwing the ball underarm to the batter

      • Backstop - the player positioned directly behind the batter to receive the ball after it is bowled

      Common misconception

      When bowling, pupils prioritise throwing the ball with as much force as possible.

      Ensure pupils understand that applying force to their bowls is beneficial, but good accuracy is essential to ensure 'no balls' aren't thrown. Pupils should focus on developing excellent accuracy before attempting to apply more force.

      Teacher tip

      Allowing pupils to aim at different sized objects and over different distances with larger balls, softer balls and beanbags can help pupils develop their accuracy and execution of the throw. Ensure the backstop is stood a safe distance away from the batter.

      Equipment

      1 hoop between 4 pupils, 1 tennis ball between 2, 30+ cones, beanbags.

      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.
      Which word describes using your hand to send an object through the air?

      kick
      Correct answer: throw
      catch

      Q2.
      What can reduce the accuracy of a throw?

      the sun
      friends
      Correct answer: too much speed

      Q3.
      What is the role of the fielders?

      Correct answer: prevent opponents scoring
      score points
      hit the ball

      Q4.
      How can you develop trust with teammates?

      Correct answer: support each other
      always win
      ignore them

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which throwing technique do you use when bowling in rounders?

      it doesn't matter
      Correct answer: underarm
      overarm

      Q2.
      Where should the backstop be positioned?

      beside the batter
      behind the bowler
      Correct answer: behind the batter

      Q3.
      How can you use your teammates to help you to improve?

      Correct answer: ask for support
      ignore them
      take their turn

      Q4.
      When bowling in rounders, what should you focus on first?

      bowling power
      spinning the ball
      Correct answer: bowling accuracy

      To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Fielding: bowling and backstop, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...