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Lesson 6 - Map Symbols & Orienteering

Navigation & Collaboration

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Year 4

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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Big Question

How can understanding map symbols help us navigate and explore our world safely?

Learning Objectives

Recognise and recall common map symbols accurately
Apply map reading skills in practical orienteering activities
Work collaboratively to solve navigation challenges

Key Outcomes

Students will identify at least 12 common map symbols correctly
Students will complete an orienteering course using symbol recognition
Students will demonstrate effective teamwork during navigation tasks

Equipment & Resources Required

Cards

16 per group of 3

Pre-cut and laminated for durability

Alternative: Laminated sheets, digital displays on tablets

Map cards with keys

1 per group

Clearly visible and accessible to all students

Alternative: Enlarged poster version, individual copies

Sun Markers

16 total

Hidden around playground/hall before lesson

Alternative: Cones with numbers, laminated cards

Score Sheets

1 per pair plus teacher copy

Attached to clipboards for easy writing

Alternative: Digital recording sheets, clipboards

Pencils

1 per pair

Attached to clipboards with string

Alternative: Erasable pens, digital input

Key Vocabulary

Map symbol

A simple picture or shape that represents a real feature on the ground

Map key

A list that explains what each symbol on a map means

Orienteering

A sport where you navigate between checkpoints using a map

Navigation

Finding your way from one place to another using maps and other tools

Checkpoint

A specific location you must visit during orienteering

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of maps as representations of real places
Ability to work in pairs cooperatively
Recognition that symbols can represent real objects

Current Skills

Identifying common map symbols
Matching symbols to their meanings
Using map keys and references
Basic orienteering navigation

Next Steps

Reading contour lines and elevation
Using compass bearings with maps
Planning routes using multiple navigation tools

Milestone Indicators

Confidently identifies 15+ map symbols

Completes orienteering tasks without teacher support

Explains symbol meanings to peers

Key Teaching Points

Model thinking aloud processes when identifying symbols to make invisible learning visible
Use map keys as learning scaffolds initially, then gradually remove support to build independence
Emphasise accuracy over speed to develop careful observation skills and build confidence
Connect all symbol learning to real-world applications to increase relevance and motivation
Maintain partner cooperation throughout to build social skills alongside navigation abilities
Use differentiated challenges to ensure all students experience appropriate level of challenge
Celebrate effort and problem-solving strategies as much as correct answers to build growth mindset

Common Misconceptions

Thinking orienteering is only about running fast rather than careful observation and problem-solving
Believing map symbols are pictures rather than simplified representations of real features
Assuming all symbols are obvious and not requiring careful examination of details
Expecting to recognise all symbols immediately without reference to map keys or prior learning
Thinking navigation is an individual skill rather than benefiting from collaborative approach

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, movement incorporated into learning, immediate feedback and checking system

dyspraxia

Larger answer sheets with clear writing lines, pencil grips if needed, simplified navigation routes, additional processing time

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet retreat space available, predictable routines, detailed advance explanation of expectations

visual impairment

Enlarged symbol cards with high contrast, tactile symbols where possible, detailed verbal descriptions of each symbol, buddy support for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual instruction cards, clear written examples, demonstration-based teaching, sign language support if available

physical disability

Adapted orienteering course with accessible routes, seated symbol matching alternatives, modified answer recording methods

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following written instructions, recording observations clearly, using subject-specific vocabulary accurately, communication during partner work

Maths

Counting and recording numbers systematically, data collection during orienteering, problem-solving strategies, pattern recognition in symbols

Geography

Map skills, symbol recognition, spatial awareness, understanding how places are represented, using geographical vocabulary

PSHE

Working collaboratively, perseverance when facing challenges, celebrating others' successes, building resilience and growth mindset

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location during orienteering with clear sightlines to all boundaries, mobile support for struggling pairs while maintaining overall supervision

Observation Focus

Monitor symbol recognition accuracy, partnership cooperation, safety compliance, and engagement levels throughout activities

Intervention Points

Step in when students appear frustrated, if safety boundaries are crossed, or when partners are not collaborating effectively

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated thinking aloud processes when identifying symbols, model proper recording technique clearly, show enthusiasm for discovery and problem-solving

Verbal Cues

•'Take your time to really look at the symbol details'
•'What features can you see that might give you a clue?'
•'Work together - two heads are better than one!'
•'Remember to stay within our boundary markers'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area or large hall, with clear boundaries marked by cones or natural features

Surface Check

Even surface free from holes, wet leaves, or obstacles that could cause slipping during movement between markers

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Symbol cards laminated to prevent paper cuts
•Pencils secured to clipboards with string to prevent loss and potential injury
•Markers placed away from walls, trees, or other collision hazards

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Students running and colliding while moving between markers
•Getting lost or separated from partner outside designated area
•Frustration leading to unsafe behaviour when struggling with difficult symbols

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and regularly reinforced
•Walking enforced when carrying equipment
•Partner system maintained throughout activities
•Teacher position allows visual monitoring of all students

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position centrally for maximum visibility during orienteering
•Regular headcounts to ensure all students remain in designated area
•Monitor emotional state and provide support for frustrated students

Emergency Procedures

Whistle signal for immediate stop and return to teacher, first aid kit accessible, clear route to school office