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Lesson 7 - Map Reading and Navigation Skills

Trust & Teamwork Challenges

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Year 4

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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Big Question

How can we use maps and symbols to navigate and communicate location effectively?

Learning Objectives

To develop accurate map reading and symbol recognition skills
To create and follow simple maps using appropriate symbols and keys
To work collaboratively in small groups to solve navigational challenges

Key Outcomes

Students will identify key map symbols and use legends to navigate accurately
Students will create their own maps with correct symbols and clear routes
Students will demonstrate effective teamwork and communication during navigation tasks

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Distributed around activity area as per map layouts

Alternative: Markers, beanbags, or other clearly visible objects

Hoops

Placed according to map symbols and layouts

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, or marked areas

Mats

Positioned as shown on resource maps

Alternative: Towels, pieces of fabric, or marked floor areas

Pencils

One per group for map drawing activities

Alternative: Pens, crayons, or dry-wipe markers

Ropes

Used to create straight and curved lines as map symbols

Alternative: Long pieces of string, ribbon, or rope

Cards

7 sets

One resource card set per group of four students

Alternative: Hand-drawn maps on paper or digital displays

Key Vocabulary

Map

A drawing that shows the position of places and objects from above

Symbol

A picture or sign that represents something else on a map

Key/Legend

A list that explains what the symbols on a map mean

Route

The path or way to get from one place to another

Navigate

To find your way using a map or directions

Grid

A pattern of lines that cross each other to form squares on a map

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of following simple directions
Experience working in small groups
Recognition of basic shapes and symbols

Current Skills

Map symbol recognition and interpretation
Creating simple maps with appropriate symbols
Following routes using map references
Verbal communication for navigation guidance

Next Steps

Using compass directions in navigation
Reading more complex maps with contour lines
Planning longer routes with multiple waypoints
Using grid references and coordinates

Milestone Indicators

Consistently identifies 80% of map symbols correctly

Creates maps that others can follow accurately

Gives clear, specific directions using map terminology

Demonstrates patience and support when working in groups

Key Teaching Points

Maps represent real spaces from a bird's eye view perspective
Symbols on maps use a key or legend for interpretation
Accurate map reading requires careful observation and checking
Teamwork improves problem-solving in navigation challenges
Clear communication is essential for giving and following directions
Map creation requires logical thinking about spatial relationships
Navigation skills transfer to many real-world situations

Common Misconceptions

Maps are just pictures rather than scaled representations of real spaces
All symbols on maps are obvious without needing to check the key
Drawing maps doesn't need to be accurate as long as it looks nice
Navigation is only about reaching the destination, not the route taken
Only some people can be good at reading maps - it's a special talent
Maps only show things that are permanently fixed in place

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear, specific roles within groups, use movement breaks between map reading tasks, offer fidget tools during sitting activities

dyspraxia

Simplify equipment handling requirements, provide additional time for map drawing tasks, offer templates or guides for drawing, pair with supportive partners

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedules for activities, offer quiet reflection time, use consistent routines for each map task, provide advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use tactile symbols on maps, provide verbal descriptions of layouts, use high contrast materials, pair with sighted buddy for navigation support

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations and hand signals, provide written instructions on cards, ensure clear line of sight for communication, use visual cues for directions

physical disability

Adapt movement requirements for wheelchair access, provide alternative ways to participate in equipment placement, modify navigation challenges for individual mobility needs

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development for directional and spatial language, following and giving clear instructions, collaborative discussion skills

Maths

Grid references and coordinates, spatial relationships and positioning, scale and proportional representation, measuring distances and angles

Science

Observation skills and systematic recording, problem-solving approaches, understanding of perspective and viewpoint

Art

Drawing skills for map creation, symbol design and recognition, spatial composition and layout planning

Geography

Map reading skills, symbol interpretation, scale and direction, bird's eye view perspective, route planning and navigation

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position allowing 360-degree view of all groups, moving strategically to support different teams

Observation Focus

Monitor map reading accuracy, group collaboration effectiveness, safe movement during navigation tasks

Intervention Points

Step in when groups struggle with symbol interpretation, when collaboration breaks down, or when safety concerns arise

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements when showing map reading techniques, clearly point to symbols and their real-world equivalents, model collaborative discussion techniques

Verbal Cues

•'Check your key!'
•'What does that symbol represent?'
•'How can your team work together?'
•'Look carefully at the map before you move!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 15m clear space with additional room for multiple groups to work simultaneously

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for movement between equipment stations

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all equipment for damage before use
•Ensure cones and hoops are stable and properly positioned
•Verify mats are clean and lying flat to prevent trips
•Check skipping ropes are in good condition with no frayed sections

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between groups during movement activities
•Trips over equipment during navigation tasks
•Overcrowding around popular activity areas

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for each group's working area
•Adequate spacing between group activity zones
•Progressive introduction of movement activities with safety reminders
•Clear rules for movement around other groups' equipment

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups simultaneously
•Monitor movement activities closely for safe navigation
•Check equipment placement regularly for stability and safety
•Ensure clear pathways are maintained between activity areas

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, clear access routes for emergency services if needed