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Lesson 3 - Point and Return Navigation

Map Reading Foundations and Team Navigation Adventures

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Year 3

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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45 min

Big Question

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

Learning Objectives

To orientate a map correctly and locate specific points
To work collaboratively in pairs to find and return from designated points
To develop compass direction understanding and spatial awareness

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to orientate a map and locate their classroom
Students will successfully navigate to points and return to base as a team
Students will demonstrate effective teamwork and communication skills

Equipment & Resources Required

Maps

8-12 control points

Pre-marked with orienteering points and out-of-bounds areas highlighted

Alternative: Simplified sketch maps of area if detailed maps unavailable

Cones

8 cones

Positioned in correct compass directions with adequate spacing

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or laminated cards

Whistles

For emergency stop or time-up signals

Alternative: Bell or loud voice for recall signal

Clipboards

1 per pair (15)

For recording found points and planning routes

Alternative: Hard-backed books or writing boards

Key Vocabulary

Orientate

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

Base

The starting and returning point for your navigation challenge

Compass directions

The eight main directions: North, South, East, West, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest

Navigation

Finding your way from one place to another using a map

Key/Legend

The symbols on a map that tell you what different marks mean

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of maps and symbols
Awareness of compass directions (North, South, East, West)
Experience working in pairs cooperatively

Current Skills

Map orientation techniques
Point-to-point navigation
Strategic thinking in outdoor environments
Effective partnership communication

Next Steps

Multi-leg orienteering courses
Using scale and grid references
Independent navigation challenges
Leading small group expeditions

Milestone Indicators

Students consistently orientate maps before moving

Pairs work together without adult intervention

Students can explain their route choices

Teams show resilience when facing challenges

Key Teaching Points

Map orientation is the foundation skill - always orientate before moving
Partnership communication is essential for successful navigation
Strategic thinking develops through experience with different point values
Safety awareness must be maintained even during competitive elements
Map reading connects to real-world problem-solving skills
Resilience builds when students overcome navigation challenges together
Spatial awareness develops through matching map features to reality

Common Misconceptions

Maps work without being orientated - emphasise the matching concept
Running fast is more important than accurate navigation - stress technique over speed
One partner can do all the navigation - highlight the value of teamwork
Difficult points are always worth attempting - teach strategic decision making
Getting lost is failure - frame it as learning opportunity and problem-solving practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with frequent check-ins, clear physical boundaries, immediate positive feedback for focus

dyspraxia

Simplified maps with fewer details, extra practice time for map orientation, supportive partner pairing

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, defined boundaries and predictable routines, quiet area available for breaks

visual impairment

Use tactile maps with raised features, buddy system with sighted partner, clear verbal descriptions of surroundings and directions

hearing impairment

Visual signal system instead of whistle, written instruction cards, clear visual demonstrations of all techniques

physical disability

Adapted maps for wheelchair access routes, modified control points at appropriate heights, partner support for movement

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Compass directions and angles, measuring distances on maps, counting and scoring points, understanding scale and proportion

Science

Magnetism and compass use, forces and movement, observation and recording skills

Geography

Map reading skills, understanding symbols and keys, spatial awareness, cardinal and intercardinal directions

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, decision-making skills, resilience and persistence, leadership qualities

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central base position with good sight lines to all activity areas, move to support individuals while maintaining group overview

Observation Focus

Watch for map orientation technique, partnership communication, safety awareness, and strategic thinking development

Intervention Points

Step in when students separate from partners, when safety boundaries are approached, or when navigation frustration becomes counterproductive

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Map orientation with exaggerated body movement, partnership communication through clear verbal and visual cues, strategic thinking by modelling decision-making process aloud

Verbal Cues

•'Orientate your map first!'
•'Work together - two heads are better than one!'
•'Safety first, then speed!'
•'Check your map matches what you can see!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 50m x 50m with varied terrain and features

Surface Check

Check for holes, wet areas, loose stones, or other trip hazards before activity

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Ensure maps are not torn or damaged
•Check cones are stable and visible
•Verify orienteering markers are securely placed

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Students running without looking where they're going
•Separation from partner in unfamiliar outdoor areas
•Entering out-of-bounds or hazardous areas
•Slips and falls on varied outdoor terrain

Risk Mitigation

•Clear establishment of out-of-bounds areas on maps
•Emphasis on staying with partner at all times
•Regular reminders about safe movement techniques
•Adult positioning in areas of potential concern

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position at central base for maximum visibility
•Move to support struggling pairs while maintaining overview
•Station adults near potential hazard areas if available

Emergency Procedures

Use whistle signal for immediate stop and return to base, ensure first aid kit is accessible, have emergency contact procedure established