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Lesson 7 - Map Reading and Navigation

Team Skills Challenges

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Year 3

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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Big Question

How can maps help us navigate and communicate with others about where things are located?

Learning Objectives

To develop map reading skills and understand basic map symbols
To identify objects on a map using a key
To draw and follow simple maps with teammates

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to read basic map symbols using a key
Students will create their own simple maps and routes
Students will work effectively in small teams to solve navigation challenges

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Place around area perimeter before lesson

Alternative: Plastic bottles, bean bags

Hoops

Store on equipment trolley for easy distribution

Alternative: Rope circles, chalked circles

Mats

Stack neatly, one per group

Alternative: Carpet squares, towels

Pencils

Have extras available for breakages

Alternative: Coloured pencils, markers

Ropes

Check for knots before distribution

Alternative: Long ropes, ribbon

Cards

7 sets

One set per group of 4 students

Alternative: Laminated worksheets, digital display

Key Vocabulary

Map

A drawing that shows where things are located from above

Key

A list that explains what symbols on a map mean

Symbol

A simple picture or shape that represents something on a map

Route

The path you take to get from one place to another

Navigate

To find your way using a map or directions

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of left and right directions
Experience working in small groups
Familiarity with simple spatial concepts

Current Skills

Reading and interpreting map symbols
Creating simple maps with key features
Following routes and giving directions

Next Steps

Using compass directions (North, South, East, West)
Reading more complex maps with contour lines
Planning multi-stage navigation routes

Milestone Indicators

Students consistently identify symbols without prompting

Teams work independently to solve mapping challenges

Students create accurate maps that others can follow

Key Teaching Points

Always connect symbols to real objects through demonstration
Emphasise teamwork and discussion before object placement
Use precise spatial language throughout (next to, between, opposite)
Check accuracy through peer assessment and self-correction
Build from simple to complex map reading tasks
Maintain focus on communication and cooperation skills
Connect map skills to real-world navigation purposes

Common Misconceptions

Maps show side view rather than aerial view - address through demonstration
Symbols are just pictures rather than representations - emphasise key usage
Routes must be straight lines - show varied path options
Only one person needs to understand the map - stress team collaboration
Maps are only used outdoors - discuss indoor plans and layouts

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Regular movement breaks, clear task boundaries, hands-on equipment manipulation, frequent success recognition

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified map layouts, extra time for fine motor tasks, supportive group members

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, defined boundaries for work spaces, option for individual map work, consistent routine structure

visual impairment

Use high contrast symbols, tactile objects for map elements, verbal descriptions of spatial relationships, buddy support for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all instructions, written symbol keys, hand signals for directions, clear visual maps

physical disability

Adapted equipment positioning, wheelchair-accessible routes, modified warm-up activities, seated map work options

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following instructions, giving clear directions, descriptive language for positions

Maths

Grid references, coordinates, spatial relationships, position and direction vocabulary

Art

Drawing symbols, representing 3D objects in 2D, design and visual communication

Geography

Map symbols and keys, aerial views, plan views, local area exploration

PSHE

Teamwork skills, communication, taking responsibility for group success, helping others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during activities, position at edge of area during warm-up for full visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for accurate symbol recognition, effective teamwork, and safe equipment use

Intervention Points

Step in if groups struggle with map interpretation or if safety concerns arise

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements when showing map concepts, hold resources high for visibility, model positive group interaction language

Verbal Cues

•'Check your map again'
•'Work together to decide'
•'Look at the key for help'
•'Is that exactly like the map shows?'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 20m x 15m clear space for warm-up, separate areas for group work

Surface Check

Level surface free from wet areas, suitable for jumping and walking

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check cones for cracks or sharp edges
•Ensure mats are clean and not slippery
•Verify skipping ropes have no knots or fraying
•Check pencils are not broken with sharp points

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during warm-up activity
•Trips over equipment during activities
•Pencil injuries during map drawing

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries for warm-up game
•Adequate spacing between groups during activities
•Supervised equipment collection and distribution
•Safe pencil handling guidelines

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all groups during map work
•Monitor warm-up activity for safe play
•Check equipment handling throughout lesson

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess need for first aid, ensure other students remain safe