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Lesson 2 - Around the Clock Challenge

Collaborative Problem-Solving Through Adventure Challenges

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Year 4

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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58 min

Big Question

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

Cards

4 complete suits (52 cards total)

Each team gets one suit (13 cards), arranged face down in clock formation

Alternative: Numbered cards 1-13, laminated number cards

Cones

16 (4 per team area)

Mark out four distinct team areas with clear boundaries

Alternative: Spots, chalk circles, tape markers

Blindfolds

8 (optional for extension)

Only needed for higher ability extension activity

Alternative: Scarves, fabric strips, closed eyes

Sun Markers

4 small boards (for support option)

Available for teams who need visual planning support

Alternative: Paper and pencils, mini whiteboards

Key Vocabulary

Strategy

A plan of action designed to achieve a particular goal

Tactics

Specific actions or methods used to carry out a strategy

Communication

The exchange of information through speaking, listening, and body language

Collaboration

Working together effectively to achieve a common goal

Leadership

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

Students can explain why communication is essential for team success

Teams show visible improvement in strategy between attempts

Students can identify specific attributes of effective team members

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