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This unit transforms Year 3 students into confident young explorers through progressive map reading and navigation challenges. Starting with fundamental map literacy skills, students develop spatial awareness, teamwork capabilities, and problem-solving confidence in outdoor environments. The emphasis on collaborative navigation builds both technical orienteering skills and essential communication abilities whilst fostering a sense of adventure and achievement.

Lessons in This Unit

6 lessons in this unit

Lesson 1

Introduction to Maps and Keys
45 min

Big Question:

How do explorers use maps and keys to navigate unknown territories safely?

Key Objectives:

  • • To understand the concept of a map as a view from above
  • • To use a key correctly to identify symbols on a map

Lesson 2

Cone Orienteering and Map Navigation
45 min

Big Question:

How can we work together as a team to navigate successfully using maps?

Key Objectives:

  • • To understand the concept of orienteering and map orientation
  • • To develop teamwork and collaboration skills through navigation challenges

Lesson 3

Point and Return Navigation
45 min

Big Question:

How can we work as an effective team to navigate accurately and safely in our environment?

Key Objectives:

  • • To orientate a map correctly and locate specific points
  • • To work collaboratively in pairs to find and return from designated points

Lesson 4

Point to Point Orienteering
45 min

Big Question:

How can we work as an effective team to navigate from point to point using a map?

Key Objectives:

  • • To orientate a map correctly and follow a route to locate points in sequence
  • • To develop teamwork skills when navigating as a pair

Lesson 5

Timed Orienteering Course Navigation
1h

Big Question:

How can we work together as a team to navigate efficiently and achieve our orienteering goals?

Key Objectives:

  • • To orientate a map correctly and locate points in sequence
  • • To plan and execute an effective route within time constraints

Lesson 6

Orienteering Competition Challenge
1h

Big Question:

How can we work together as a team to navigate successfully and efficiently around an orienteering course?

Key Objectives:

  • • To apply orienteering skills learned throughout the unit in a competitive team challenge
  • • To demonstrate effective teamwork, communication and leadership during navigation tasks