KS4 · Physical education · Year 10
Batting techniques
Striking and fielding games: evaluate and improve performance in softball
Learn it. Recall it. Make it stick.
IllumED Slides
IllumED · 1/10
Your learning goal
I can hit a softball using the recognised batting techniques.
1 of 10
Batting techniques: slides adapted from the imported teaching text; recall questions created from its keywords, learning points and common mistakes. Self-check practice, with no automatic grading or XP. Answers stay on this page and are cleared when you leave.
What you’ll learn
I can hit a softball using the recognised batting techniques.
Key learning points
- Move: setting up in a coiled side-on stance prepares the batter to strike the ball powerfully.
- Move: changing stance and grip to bunt the ball is a short hitting tactic used to surprise fielders.
- Think: shifting your weight from back foot to front as the pitcher releases the ball, adds power whilst keeping control.
- Feel: making clean contact with a fast moving pitch feels great but takes time and dedication to achieve repeatedly.
- Connect: hitting success and managing risk by not being too ambitious contributes to your team's overall performance.
Words to know
- coiled stance
- the batter’s preparatory position which sets them up for a powerful swing
- weight transfer
- shifting weight from back foot to front during swing to create power
- bunting
- strategic skill where the batter holds the bat still to gently tap the ball into play
Common mistakes
Pupils may use a static approach to batting, perhaps using only their arms to swing the bat with.
Pupils should understand the whole body is involved in a good batting swing and that most of the power produced comes from the lower half of the body.
For parents, carers and teachers
- Soft toss is a valuable drill for practicing hitting a moving ball, but safety is paramount. Feeders should stand at least 2 meters to the side of the batter's swing path to avoid contact. Use low-compression tennis balls to minimise injury risk; avoid using softballs, as they are not truly soft.