Fielding and throwing techniques
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can accurately stop and throw a softball to the intended target.
Key learning points
- Move: a low squat and grounded glove position allows fielders to collect ground balls.
- Move: selecting and performing a fast overarm or underarm throw can help beat runners to the base and get them out.
- Think: fielders need to be alert to cover bases when teammates are required to field the ball elsewhere.
- Feel: perseverance with practice tasks is required when learning to use unfamiliar equipment.
- Connect: sensitivity towards others is required to build up the confidence in others after a dropped catch.
Keywords
Softball glove - a padded mitt worn on the non-throwing hand to help catch and control the ball during play
Underarm throw - a throwing action where the arm doesn't go above the shoulder
Overarm throw - a throwing action where the arm is raised above the shoulder
Common misconception
Pupils often assume that a fielder needs to be stationed on each base and that it is the job of other fielders to get the ball to them while they remain with their base.
Use the third section of this lesson to introduce the idea that fielding positions should be fluid and that infielders, especially, should always be alert to the idea of leaving bases or covering other bases.
Teacher tip
Using additional cones to show start positions for fielders will help them to take up an effective fielding formation which will become second nature in future.
Equipment
gloves, balls, cones, bases
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What part does the lower body play in batting?
Q2.What does time and dedication lead to?
Q3.What do we call a short hit in which we let the ball hit the bat without swinging?
Q4.What should batters always consider?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.When should 1st and 3rd base fielders leave their base?
Q2.What should happen next if the 1st base fielder leaves the base to field the ball?
Q3.Which type of throw is it preferable to choose for covering long distances?
Q4.What do you need when learning to use new equipment such as a softball glove?
To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Fielding and throwing techniques, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Fielding and throwing techniques, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 4 physical education lessons from the Striking and fielding games: evaluate and improve performance in softball unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.