Lesson 7 - Map Reading and Navigation Skills
Trust & Teamwork Challenges
•Year 4
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Distributed around activity area as per map layouts
Alternative: Markers, beanbags, or other clearly visible objects
Placed according to map symbols and layouts
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, or marked areas
Positioned as shown on resource maps
Alternative: Towels, pieces of fabric, or marked floor areas
One per group for map drawing activities
Alternative: Pens, crayons, or dry-wipe markers
Used to create straight and curved lines as map symbols
Alternative: Long pieces of string, ribbon, or rope
One resource card set per group of four students
Alternative: Hand-drawn maps on paper or digital displays
Key Vocabulary
A drawing that shows the position of places and objects from above
A picture or sign that represents something else on a map
A list that explains what the symbols on a map mean
The path or way to get from one place to another
To find your way using a map or directions
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
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