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Lesson 7 - Problem-Solving and Communication

Trust & Communication Skills

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Year 2

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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51 min

Big Question

How can we work together to solve challenges and achieve our goals?

Learning Objectives

To communicate effectively with a partner and small group to solve problems
To be able to discuss, interact and plan collaboratively
To develop listening skills and reflect on successful problem-solving strategies

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate effective communication with partners and small groups
Students will show they can listen to others and share ideas constructively
Students will reflect on their problem-solving successes and areas for improvement

Equipment & Resources Required

Balls

40 (1 per student plus spares)

Store in accessible container, distribute as needed for activities

Alternative: Small balls, soft toys, or fabric squares

Cones

30 (various colours if available)

Place randomly around area for dishes and domes, keep spares nearby

Alternative: Plastic bottles, markers, or hoops laid flat

Hoops

30 (15 pairs)

Pair hoops approximately 1 metre apart for movement activities

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, or poly spots

Key Vocabulary

Communication

Sharing ideas, thoughts and information with others through speaking and listening

Problem-solving

Finding ways to overcome challenges or complete tasks

Cooperation

Working together towards a shared goal

Strategy

A plan or method for achieving something

Reflection

Thinking about what worked well and what could be improved

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic following of simple instructions
Experience working with a partner
Understanding of taking turns

Current Skills

Active listening in group situations
Sharing ideas verbally with confidence
Problem-solving through trial and error
Basic planning and strategy discussion

Next Steps

Leading small group discussions
Evaluating different strategies
Teaching others problem-solving techniques

Milestone Indicators

Initiates communication without prompting

Responds appropriately to others' suggestions

Shows persistence when facing challenges

Demonstrates improved teamwork over time

Key Teaching Points

Communication makes teamwork more effective and enjoyable
Different situations may require different communication methods
Good listening is just as important as speaking clearly
Problem-solving often requires trying multiple approaches
Everyone can contribute valuable ideas to help the team succeed
Reflection helps us learn from our experiences and improve
Patience and encouragement help teams work better together

Common Misconceptions

Thinking that being fastest is more important than working together - emphasise that coordination leads to better results
Believing that only verbal communication is effective - demonstrate power of non-verbal signals
Assuming that teams should never disagree - teach that respectful discussion of different ideas is valuable
Thinking that making mistakes means failure - frame errors as learning opportunities that help teams improve

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into smaller chunks, provide clear boundaries, use movement breaks, offer specific roles

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment, reduce complexity of movements, provide extra practice time, offer alternative movement patterns

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedules, allow preparation time for new activities

visual impairment

Use bright coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of activities, assign sighted partners for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations, simple hand signals, written instructions if needed, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Adapt jumping to stepping or seated movements, use larger equipment if needed, focus on achievable challenges

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Verbal communication skills, listening comprehension, vocabulary development

Maths

Counting beanbags and cones, understanding concepts of more/less and half

Science

Understanding forces and movement, cause and effect relationships

PSHE

Working cooperatively, respecting others, building confidence and resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the area to observe all groups, position for maximum visibility during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for effective communication, safe movement techniques, and positive team interactions

Intervention Points

Step in if communication breaks down, safety concerns arise, or students become frustrated

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate key techniques clearly, use positive examples from students during activities, model good communication yourself

Verbal Cues

•'Talk to your team!'
•'What's your plan?'
•'How can you help each other?'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Ensure surface is safe for jumping and quick direction changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check beanbags for tears or loose filling
•Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
•Verify hoops are undamaged and appropriate size

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during fast-paced activities
•Trips or falls during jumping challenges
•Equipment-related injuries from damaged items

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and safe spacing established
•Emphasise controlled movement over speed
•Regular equipment checks and safe storage
•Immediate stop signal taught and practiced

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all groups during challenges
•Monitor for safe technique during jumping activities
•Watch for signs of frustration that might lead to unsafe behaviour

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid if needed, ensure other students are safe