This unit develops Year 4 students' map reading skills and spatial awareness through structured orienteering challenges that emphasise teamwork and problem-solving. The focus moves from understanding symbols and basic navigation concepts to applying these skills under increasing pressure and complexity. Through collaborative learning, students build confidence in outdoor navigation whilst developing essential life skills of communication, leadership, and resilience.

Lessons in This Unit

6 lessons in this unit

Lesson 1

Introduction to Map Reading and Symbols
1h

Big Question:

How can we use maps and symbols to navigate and work effectively as a team?

Key Objectives:

  • Introduce students to the concept of maps, plans and aerial views
  • Develop understanding of map symbols and keys for navigation

Lesson 2

Cone Orienteering Skills
45 min

Big Question:

How can we use maps and teamwork to navigate successfully in the outdoors?

Key Objectives:

  • To develop basic orienteering skills using simple maps and courses
  • To understand how to orientate a map correctly for navigation

Lesson 3

Point and Return Navigation
1h

Big Question:

How can we work as an effective team to navigate accurately and support each other in outdoor challenges?

Key Objectives:

  • To develop map reading skills by locating points on a map and navigating to them accurately
  • To work effectively as a team using communication and problem-solving skills

Lesson 4

Point to Point Navigation
1h

Big Question:

How can effective teamwork and map reading skills help us navigate successfully from point to point?

Key Objectives:

  • To orientate a map correctly and locate specific points in sequence
  • To work effectively as a team member to navigate point-to-point courses

Lesson 5

Timed Orienteering Course Challenge
1h

Big Question:

How can we work as an effective team to navigate challenges under time pressure?

Key Objectives:

  • To orientate a map correctly and use it to navigate between multiple points in sequence
  • To work effectively as a team to plan and execute a route strategy within time constraints

Lesson 6

Orienteering Competition
1h

Big Question:

How can we work as an effective team to successfully navigate an orienteering course using maps and compass skills?

Key Objectives:

  • To successfully navigate an orienteering course using map reading and compass skills
  • To work effectively as a team to plan routes and manage time during competition