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Lesson 5 - Map Navigation and Problem Solving

Collaborative Navigation Adventures

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Year 3

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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Big Question

How can we use maps and teamwork to solve challenges in our school environment?

Learning Objectives

To develop map reading and navigation skills using school grounds
To apply problem-solving strategies under time pressure
To demonstrate effective teamwork and communication during orienteering challenges

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully orientate a map using key features to locate controls
Students will work collaboratively to complete navigation challenges within time limits
Students will reflect on and improve their problem-solving strategies

Equipment & Resources Required

Maps

1 per pair (15 maps)

Laminated maps with clear control point markings

Alternative: Hand-drawn maps, aerial photos with key features marked

Markers Cones

15-20 numbered cones

Clearly visible from 10m distance, secured from wind

Alternative: Coloured cards, laminated numbers, clipboards

Whiteboard Pens

1 per pair (15 sets)

Ensure pens are working and whiteboards clean

Alternative: Clipboards with paper, recording sheets

Answer Sheets for Teachers

2-3 copies

Include control locations, numbers, and correct answers

Alternative: Digital answer key on tablet

Stopwatch

Ensure clearly visible/audible signal for time limits

Alternative: Mobile phone timer, PE department timer

Team Tokens

30-40 individual rewards

Mix of effort and achievement-based rewards ready

Alternative: Verbal praise, team points, certificates

Key Vocabulary

Orientate

To position a map so it matches the real landscape around you

Control

A marked point on an orienteering course that participants must visit

Navigation

The process of finding your way using a map and landmarks

Bearing

The direction you need to travel to reach your destination

Landmark

A recognizable feature that helps you know where you are

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of maps from previous lessons
Experience working in pairs during orienteering activities
Familiarity with school grounds layout

Current Skills

Map orientation using key features and landmarks
Navigation planning and route selection
Problem-solving under time pressure
Recording and calculating numerical information

Next Steps

Advanced route planning and optimization
Leading small group navigation challenges
Creating their own orienteering courses

Milestone Indicators

Consistent map orientation without prompting

Efficient movement between controls with minimal backtracking

Accurate completion of challenges within time limits

Constructive reflection on performance and strategy

Key Teaching Points

Map orientation is the foundation of all good navigation - always turn the map to match the real world
Partners must stay together for safety and to support each other's learning throughout challenges
Strategic thinking improves navigation - plan routes rather than rushing randomly between controls
Problem-solving skills transfer beyond PE - navigation challenges develop thinking skills for all subjects
Persistence and teamwork are as important as finding the right answers in orienteering activities
Accuracy in recording and map marking is essential for successful navigation and challenge completion
Celebrating effort and improvement motivates continued learning in outdoor adventurous activities

Common Misconceptions

Maps must always be held with north at the top - actually maps should be oriented to match the surrounding landscape
Faster running means better navigation - strategic thinking and accuracy are more important than speed
Getting lost means failure - confusion is part of learning and develops problem-solving resilience
Only completing challenges fully counts as success - effort, improvement, and teamwork are equally valuable
Orienteering skills are only useful outdoors - map reading and navigation thinking transfer to many life situations

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter time limits for activities, clear boundaries marked, regular check-ins with teacher, movement breaks incorporated naturally

dyspraxia

Simplified maps with fewer details, larger control markers, extra practice time for map orientation, step-by-step instruction breakdowns

autism spectrum

Clear structure and routines explained, visual schedule of activities, quiet break areas available, predictable partner arrangements

visual impairment

Large print maps, bright coloured control markers, verbal descriptions of routes, buddy system with sighted partner for guidance

hearing impairment

Visual signals for time limits, written instructions provided, clear visual demonstrations of all techniques, vibrating timer if available

physical disability

Modified control positions accessible by wheelchair, shortened distances between controls, seated map reading options, alternative recording methods

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Spelling challenges, vocabulary development through orienteering terms, following written instructions and recording information

Maths

Calculating totals from collected numbers, measuring distances between controls, understanding scale and coordinates on maps

Science

Understanding magnetic north and compass use, forces needed for movement, observation and recording skills

Geography

Map reading skills, understanding symbols and keys, spatial awareness, compass directions and orientation

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position on playground for maximum visibility, move strategically to support struggling pairs while maintaining overview

Observation Focus

Watch for pair cohesion, map orientation skills, problem-solving persistence, and safety awareness throughout challenges

Intervention Points

Step in if pairs become separated, students appear lost or confused, safety concerns arise, or persistent frustration develops

Demonstration Notes

Model calm, systematic navigation throughout. Show map orientation clearly with exaggerated movements. Demonstrate partnership working and communication. Show celebrating effort as well as achievement

Verbal Cues

•'Stay with your partner - navigators work as teams!'
•'Turn your map to match what you can see!'
•'Look around - which landmark can help you?'
•'Take your time and think it through!'
•'Great problem-solving - keep going!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area including playground and field access, minimum 50m x 50m clear space

Surface Check

Check playground and field areas for hazards, ensure controls placed away from obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Maps laminated to prevent paper cuts and weather damage
•Control markers securely positioned and weighted if windy
•Whiteboards and pens checked for safety and functionality

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Students becoming separated from partners
•Collision with static obstacles while navigation
•Getting lost or confused about boundaries
•Weather-related risks if outdoors

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and explained before activity
•Mandatory pair work with strict stay-together rules
•Teacher positioned for maximum visibility of all pairs
•Weather contingency plans including indoor alternatives

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for overview of entire activity area
•Regular circulation to check on all pairs
•Clear whistle signals for immediate return
•Emergency procedures established and communicated

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately on whistle signal, all pairs return to central point, appropriate first aid/support available, emergency contact procedures clear