Softball with a Score Sheet and Batting Averages

A softball game where two scorekeepers per team record each at-bat with basic notation (single, double, out, strikeout, run). At the end students calculate batting averages and other stats and use them to set the batting order for the next game.

How to play

1. Explain the sheet: one row per batter and one column per inning; symbols 1B, 2B, 3B, HR, BB, K and O, with runs circled; batting average = hits divided by official at-bats (4 min).
2. Four-inning game with the opposing team's pitcher throwing at moderate speed; scorekeepers fill in the sheet after each at-bat and the umpire confirms each result out loud (18 min).
3. Each pair of scorekeepers uses a tablet to calculate every player's batting average and the team totals (runs, hits, strikeouts) (5 min).
4. Each team proposes a batting order for the next game and backs it with data, for example leading off with whoever reaches base most (3 min).

Rules

• Only the batter is in the batter's box; everyone else waits behind the cone line 6 m back.
• Drop the bat before running; never throw it.
• No sliding or collisions at the bases.
• Scorekeepers do not judge plays: they record what the umpire calls.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: serves as head scorekeeper, or bats and has a teammate run for them.
• Low vision: uses an enlarged sheet with big boxes or the digital version with zoom.
• ADHD: alternates between scorekeeper and player every inning to stay focused.

Learning goals

• Score a softball game with basic official notation.
• Calculate and interpret performance stats.
• Make team decisions based on data.

Equipment for a class of 25

• soft softball bats: 2
• soft softballs: 6
• bases: 4
• cones: 8
• pinnies: 14
• cards: 6
• pencils: 6
• tablets or phones: 2

Teacher tip

Have the sheet printed with the columns ready so no time is lost. Data from a single game is limited, which is a good chance to talk about sample size.

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