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Lesson 5 - Timed Orienteering Course 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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Big Question

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

Learning Objectives

To orientate a map correctly and locate points in sequence
To plan and execute an effective route within time constraints
To demonstrate effective teamwork and communication skills during orienteering challenges

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully navigate around an orienteering course using map reading skills
Students will understand map symbols and use them to plan efficient routes
Students will demonstrate time management and teamwork attributes

Equipment & Resources Required

Maps

1 per pair (15 maps)

Maps should show all orienteering points clearly marked

Alternative: Simplified school ground maps, laminated playground maps

Sun Markers

10 points around course

Place at distinctive features matching map locations

Alternative: Cones with letters, laminated signs, coloured markers

Stopwatch

1 per pair (15 stopwatches)

Ensure all showing same start time

Alternative: Mobile phone timers, sand timers, central timing system

Score Sheets

1 per pair (15 sheets)

Include space for point codes and time recording

Alternative: Clipboards with paper, whiteboard markers for laminated sheets

Pencils

1 per pair (15 pencils)

Ensure all are sharp and working

Alternative: Pens, clipboards with attached pencils

Whistles

1 for teacher

Must be audible across entire course area

Alternative: Air horn, loud voice, mobile phone alarm

Key Vocabulary

Orientate

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

Route planning

Deciding the best order and path to visit orienteering points

Map symbols

Pictures and symbols on a map that represent real features

Time management

Using your time wisely to achieve the best possible result

Navigation

Finding your way from one place to another using a map

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic map reading skills from previous orienteering lessons
Understanding of simple compass directions
Experience working in pairs cooperatively
Knowledge of basic orienteering equipment

Current Skills

Map orientation techniques
Route planning and time management
Decision-making under time pressure
Advanced teamwork and communication

Next Steps

Multi-stage orienteering courses
Night or low-visibility orienteering
Individual orienteering challenges
Creating their own orienteering courses

Milestone Indicators

Consistently orientates map correctly

Plans logical route sequences

Maintains effective communication throughout activity

Returns to base within allocated time

Key Teaching Points

Map orientation is the foundation of all successful navigation
Effective teamwork requires constant communication between partners
Time management is as important as navigation skills in orienteering
Strategic route planning prevents wasted time and energy
Supporting others while competing shows true sportsmanship
Realistic goal-setting leads to better outcomes than over-ambition
Safety must never be compromised for competitive advantage

Common Misconceptions

Students think they must find all orienteering points rather than strategic selection
Belief that speed is more important than accuracy and teamwork
Assumption that one partner should do all the navigation while other follows
Thinking that being late doesn't matter if you find lots of points
Misconception that orienteering is just about running fast rather than thinking strategically

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter route options, frequent check-ins with teacher, fidget tools available during planning, clear role definition within pairs

dyspraxia

Simplified navigation routes, extra practice time with map orientation, supportive partner pairing, visual prompts for sequence of actions

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activity progression, quiet zones available if overwhelmed, consistent routine structure, advance warning of time pressures

visual impairment

Large print maps, tactile markers at orienteering points, audio descriptions of route features, buddy support with sighted partner

hearing impairment

Visual signals for start/stop, written instruction cards, partner communication through gestures and visual cues

physical disability

Modified course with accessible routes, wheelchair-friendly terrain, adapted equipment holding techniques, extended time allowances

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Time calculation with penalties, distance estimation, scale reading on maps, data recording and analysis of scores

Science

Understanding forces and motion during movement, exploring magnetic compasses, weather observation and planning

Geography

Map reading skills, understanding symbols and keys, spatial awareness, direction and navigation concepts

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, responsibility to partners, managing emotions under pressure, celebrating others' success

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central base position with clear sightlines to most of orienteering course

Observation Focus

Monitor pair teamwork, navigation accuracy, time management, and safety

Intervention Points

Step in if pairs become separated, show signs of distress, or make unsafe choices

Demonstration Notes

Use clear physical demonstrations of map orientation, show how to read stopwatch, model excellent partner communication

Verbal Cues

•'Stay together as a team!'
•'Check your time!'
•'Which way does your map point?'
•'Great communication!'
•'Safety first, speed second!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

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

Surface Check

Check for holes, obstacles, slippery surfaces, and ensure boundaries are clear

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Ensure orienteering markers are securely positioned and visible
•Check stopwatches are working and set correctly
•Verify pencils are not sharp enough to cause injury
•Confirm maps are laminated or weather-resistant

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Students rushing and falling while navigating
•Pairs becoming separated or lost
•Time pressure causing unsafe decision-making
•Weather changes affecting visibility or safety

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and communicated
•Teacher positioned to observe most of course
•Emergency whistle signal established for immediate return
•Pairs must stay together at all times rule enforced
•Regular time checks to prevent panic rushing

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of orienteering course
•Regular scanning of all pair locations
•Monitor for signs of distress or unsafe behaviour
•Be prepared to assist struggling or separated pairs

Emergency Procedures

Emergency whistle for immediate return to base, first aid kit accessible, clear procedure for handling injuries or incidents