Lesson 2 - Around the Clock Challenge
Collaborative Problem-Solving Through Adventure Challenges
•Year 4
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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What strategies and communication skills make teams successful in solving complex challenges?
Learning Objectives
- To develop effective communication skills within a team setting
- To understand the characteristics and strategies of successful teamwork
- To apply tactical thinking and problem-solving skills in collaborative challenges
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate effective communication and listening skills during team challenges
- Students will identify and apply successful team strategies and tactics
- Students will show leadership qualities and take responsibility for team success
Equipment & Resources Required
Each team gets one suit (13 cards), arranged face down in clock formation
Alternative: Numbered cards 1-13, laminated number cards
Mark out four distinct team areas with clear boundaries
Alternative: Spots, chalk circles, tape markers
Only needed for higher ability extension activity
Alternative: Scarves, fabric strips, closed eyes
Available for teams who need visual planning support
Alternative: Paper and pencils, mini whiteboards
Key Vocabulary
A plan of action designed to achieve a particular goal
Specific actions or methods used to carry out a strategy
The exchange of information through speaking, listening, and body language
Working together effectively to achieve a common goal
Taking responsibility and guiding others towards success
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic understanding of teamwork from previous OAA lessons
- Experience working in small groups
- Basic problem-solving strategies
Current Skills
- Advanced communication techniques including active listening
- Strategic thinking and tactical planning
- Leadership and responsibility within teams
Next Steps
- Application of teamwork skills in more complex outdoor challenges
- Leading teams independently
- Teaching and supporting others in problem-solving
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Effective communication involves both clear speaking and active listening
- Successful teams include all members and value everyone's contributions
- Strategic thinking helps teams work more efficiently and effectively
- Leadership can be shown through encouragement and support, not just giving instructions
- Persistence and positive attitude are essential when facing challenges
- Teams that plan together and reflect together improve more quickly
- Problem-solving requires both individual thinking and collective decision-making
Common Misconceptions
- Teams must complete tasks quickly to be successful - correct by emphasising quality teamwork over speed
- Only the loudest person should lead the team - show how quiet leadership and listening are equally valuable
- Strategy isn't important if you try hard enough - demonstrate how planning makes teams more effective
- Some people are just naturally better at teamwork - explain that teamwork skills can be learned and improved
- Individual success is more important than team success - reinforce collective achievement and shared responsibility
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break challenge into shorter segments, provide fidget tools during discussion, use movement breaks between rounds
dyspraxia
- Allow extra time for processing, provide visual strategy guides, offer support with spatial awareness
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, offer quiet break space if needed, use visual schedule for lesson phases
visual impairment
- Use high-contrast cards or tactile markers, provide verbal descriptions of card positions, assign sighted buddy for support
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals and gestures, provide written strategy instructions, ensure student can see all team members when communicating
physical disability
- Adapt movement requirements, allow seated participation, provide alternative ways to manipulate cards
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Verbal communication skills, active listening, persuasive speaking and clear instruction-giving
Maths
Numerical sequencing, pattern recognition, strategic thinking and logical problem-solving
Science
Hypothesis testing, observation skills, cause and effect in team strategies
PSHE
Cooperation, leadership, responsibility, managing emotions and building positive relationships
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central location with clear sightlines to all four team areas, move between teams during activity phases
Observation Focus
Team communication patterns, strategic thinking development, inclusion of all team members
Intervention Points
Step in if teams become frustrated, support struggling communicators, celebrate positive teamwork
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Model positive team communication, show strategic thinking processes, highlight inclusive leadership behaviours
Verbal Cues
- •'Remember to include everyone in your decision'
- •'What strategy is your team using?'
- •'How can you communicate that more clearly?'
- •'Show me what good listening looks like'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large hall or outdoor area, minimum 20m x 15m with four distinct team zones
Surface Check
Even, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check playing cards are in good condition with no sharp edges
- •Ensure cones and markers are stable and visible
- •Verify blindfolds (if used) are clean and safe
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Students moving quickly between card positions
- •Frustration leading to inappropriate behaviour
- •Collision between team members in excitement
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for each team area
- •Emphasis on controlled movement during challenges
- •Regular reminders about positive communication and sportsmanship
- •Teacher positioned to monitor all teams simultaneously
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Central position allowing visibility of all four team areas
- •Active monitoring of team dynamics and communication
- •Ready to intervene if frustration or conflict arises
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if unsafe behaviour occurs, address any conflicts through restorative discussion