Lesson 2 - Map Symbols and Orienteering Tasks
Trust in Navigation
•Year 3
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can symbols help us understand and navigate the world around us?
Learning Objectives
- To identify and interpret basic symbols on maps
- To complete tasks using symbols and maps effectively
- To work collaboratively to complete simple map reading challenges
Key Outcomes
- Students will be able to explain what symbols on a map represent
- Students will demonstrate matching symbols to real-life objects
- Students will work effectively as part of a team to complete map-based tasks
Equipment & Resources Required
Arrange in designated 'colour zone' area
Alternative: Coloured bean bags, coloured hoops
Each card shows 6-8 different coloured symbols
Alternative: Laminated sheets with coloured circles
Maps showing symbol legend clearly visible
Alternative: Hand-drawn school area maps
Tucked into waistband for 'fox tails'
Alternative: Coloured bands, scarves
Create start lines and finish lines for activities
Alternative: Rope or chalk lines
Key Vocabulary
A simple picture or sign that represents something in real life
A drawing that shows where things are in an area from above
Finding your way using a map and sometimes a compass
The part of a map that explains what the symbols mean
How much smaller the map is compared to the real area
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Understanding of basic colours and shapes
- Experience working in small groups
- Basic awareness of following instructions
Current Skills
- Symbol recognition and interpretation
- Map reading fundamentals
- Collaborative problem-solving
- Strategic thinking and planning
Next Steps
- Using compass directions with symbols
- Creating detailed maps with multiple symbols
- Independent navigation using map and compass
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Symbols are visual representations that convey information quickly and universally
- Map reading requires connecting abstract symbols to real-world objects and locations
- Effective teamwork involves listening, planning together, and supporting all team members
- Sequential thinking and memory skills are essential for following complex instructions
- Problem-solving improves when teams communicate clearly and check their work regularly
Common Misconceptions
- Students thinking symbols must look exactly like real objects - explain abstract representation
- Believing maps show everything from ground level - clarify aerial/bird's eye view perspective
- Assuming all symbols are universal - explain that different map types may use different symbols
- Thinking orienteering is only about running fast - emphasise thinking and planning skills
- Believing team success depends only on fastest runner - highlight importance of all team contributions
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter activity bursts with clear start/stop signals, regular movement breaks, specific roles to maintain focus and engagement
dyspraxia
- Larger symbol cards for easier handling, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time with symbol recognition, buddy support
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet space available if overwhelmed, consistent routines for each activity phase
visual impairment
- Use high contrast symbol cards with bold outlines, provide verbal descriptions of all symbols, buddy system for navigation around activity area
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations for all instructions, create simple hand signals for common commands, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Seated version where student directs partner to collect items, modified movement distances, alternative role as team strategist or checker
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Reading word cards, explaining symbol meanings, vocabulary development, speaking and listening in group discussions
Maths
Sequences and patterns in colour cards, spatial awareness, counting and ordering, problem-solving strategies
Art
Symbol design and creation, visual representation of ideas, understanding how pictures convey meaning
Geography
Map skills, symbols and keys, spatial awareness, understanding representations of real places
PSHE
Teamwork and collaboration, communication skills, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating others' achievements
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at perimeter for visibility of all groups, move between teams during planning phases
Observation Focus
Watch for accurate symbol recognition, effective team communication, and safe movement during running phases
Intervention Points
Step in if teams are struggling with concept understanding, if competition becomes too intense, or if safety rules are not being followed
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Hold symbol cards high for visibility, exaggerate checking sequence against colour cards, model positive team communication
Verbal Cues
- •'Remember to read the word aloud to your team!'
- •'Check your colour card sequence carefully!'
- •'Great teamwork - I can see you're really listening to each other!'
- •'Think about what that symbol might represent in the real world'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m area, indoor hall or outdoor space with clear boundaries
Surface Check
Even, dry surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all cones are stable and not cracked
- •Ensure cards and small objects are not damaged or sharp
- •Verify bibs/tags are secure but easily removable
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during running activities
- •Slips and falls during quick direction changes
- •Competition frustration leading to unsafe behaviour
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established with cones
- •Straight-line running only in warm-up
- •Adequate spacing between team working areas
- •Progressive skill building from supported to independent
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position at edge of activity area for maximum visibility
- •Monitor high-activity areas like colour zone for congestion
- •Watch for safe turn-taking and rule following
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, ensure other students remain safe