Lesson 6 - Map Reading and Symbol Recognition
Teamwork & Creative Problem-Solving
•Year 2
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How do maps help us navigate and explore the world around us?
Learning Objectives
- To recognise and use symbols and keys on maps accurately
- To develop spatial awareness and navigation skills
- To create simple maps using given equipment and symbols
Key Outcomes
- Students will accurately identify symbols and use a map key
- Students will demonstrate improved spatial awareness when following map directions
- Students will collaborate effectively to recreate maps and create their own
Equipment & Resources Required
Placed randomly around each half of the playing area
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or hoops
One symbol placed under each cone, with matching pairs split between teams
Alternative: Pictures, shapes drawn on paper, or coloured objects
One mat per pair/small group for map recreation activity
Alternative: Marked spaces on ground, paper sheets
Various colours for map creation activities
Alternative: Bean bags, small cones, coloured blocks
Different colours to represent various map features
Alternative: Small blocks, counters, fabric squares
For groups creating their own maps
Alternative: Hard books, lap desks
For drawing original maps and keys
Alternative: Markers, crayons
Key Vocabulary
A picture or sign that represents something on a map
A list that explains what each symbol on a map means
A drawing that shows where things are located in an area
To find your way from one place to another using a map
Understanding where you are in relation to other objects
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic understanding of directions (left, right, forwards, backwards)
- Recognition of simple shapes and colours
- Ability to work cooperatively in pairs
Current Skills
- Symbol recognition and interpretation
- Understanding the purpose of map keys
- Spatial awareness and positioning
- Following multi-step instructions
Next Steps
- Reading more complex maps with grid references
- Understanding scale and distance on maps
- Using compass directions (North, South, East, West)
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Emphasise that keys are essential tools for reading any map - always refer to them first
- Encourage systematic approach to map recreation - one symbol at a time
- Model thinking processes aloud to help students understand problem-solving strategies
- Celebrate both accurate recreation and creative original map design
- Connect all activities to real-world map use to enhance relevance and motivation
- Promote patience and cooperation as essential skills for successful map work
- Use spatial language consistently throughout (position, direction, location, between, next to)
Common Misconceptions
- Maps are only used by adults in cars - address by showing child-friendly maps like theme parks, treasure maps
- Symbols can mean anything you want - emphasise that symbols need to be logical and consistent
- Keys are optional extras - demonstrate how impossible maps become without clear keys
- Bigger symbols on maps mean more important - explain symbols represent types of objects, not importance
- Maps always show the whole world - introduce concept of different scales and local area maps
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity segments with clear end points; fidget tools if needed; movement breaks between tasks; clear, simple instructions repeated frequently
dyspraxia
- Larger symbols and equipment for easier handling; extra time for map recreation; step-by-step guidance with activities broken into smaller parts; supportive partner pairing
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of lesson activities; quiet space available if overstimulated; consistent routines for equipment collection; warning before activity transitions
visual impairment
- Use high-contrast symbols with bold outlines; provide tactile symbols using different textures; use verbal descriptions of map layouts; buddy system for navigation
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstration of all instructions; written/picture instruction cards; clear visual signals for activity changes; use gestures and pointing for communication
physical disability
- Seated participation with adapted equipment placement on desk/tray; larger equipment pieces for easier handling; modified maps with bigger spaces between symbols
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Reading symbols as text; following instructions; vocabulary development with map-related terms; speaking and listening during discussions
Art
Drawing symbols and maps; understanding how pictures represent objects; creating visual keys and legends
Geography
Basic map skills foundation; understanding symbols represent real places; spatial awareness and positioning concepts
PSHE
Cooperation and collaboration; patience and resilience when tasks are challenging; celebrating others' achievements
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand where you can observe both team areas during warm-up, then circulate between pairs during map work to provide individual support
Observation Focus
Watch for accurate symbol recognition, effective partner cooperation, spatial awareness during map recreation, and creative problem-solving
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggle with symbol matching, provide hints for map recreation, or mediate equipment sharing disputes
Demonstration Notes
Model enthusiastic map reading, show thinking processes aloud, demonstrate careful equipment handling and respectful movement around others' work
Verbal Cues
- •'Look carefully at your key before placing equipment'
- •'Check your partner's work - two eyes are better than one!'
- •'Remember, maps help us find our way - make yours clear for others'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 20m hall space with clear sight lines and room for 15 pairs to work independently
Surface Check
Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles. Mats lying flat without wrinkles or edges that could trip students
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check cones are stable and not cracked
- •Ensure tennis balls are properly inflated
- •Verify bean bags have no splits or holes
- •Confirm symbol cards have no sharp edges
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during symbol matching warm-up
- •Tripping over equipment or mats during recreation activity
- •Disputes over equipment sharing
- •Pencil safety during map drawing
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established between team areas
- •Walking pace enforced during all movement activities
- •Equipment distributed fairly with teacher supervision
- •Mats secured flat and positioned with adequate spacing
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe both team areas during warm-up
- •Circulate constantly during map recreation activities
- •Monitor centre area during symbol matching
- •Check equipment handling during setup and pack-away
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs. Clear space around injured student. Apply appropriate first aid and seek support as needed.