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Lesson 8 - Navigation and Map Orientation

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 compass points to navigate safely through unfamiliar environments?

Learning Objectives

To accurately navigate around a grid using cardinal points
To draw a route using directional instructions
To orientate a map correctly when changing position

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate following and giving of directional instructions
Students will identify key symbols on a map and use compass points to navigate
Students will work effectively in pairs and small groups during navigation tasks

Equipment & Resources Required

Coloured Cones

25 total (5 each of blue, green, orange, red, yellow)

Arrange in 5x5 grid with 4m spacing between cones

Alternative: Spot markers, coloured bean bags, laminated cards

Worksheets

1 per student (30)

Pre-printed with grid layout and cardinal point indicators

Alternative: Laminated cards, tablet displays

Cards

12 different routes

Routes 1-10 use cardinal points only, routes 11-12 include inter-cardinal points

Alternative: Digital route cards on tablets

Pencils

10 (1 per group)

Attached to clipboards for easy writing

Alternative: Dry-wipe markers for laminated sheets

Score Sheets

1 per group (10)

Include compass rose and start/finish symbol examples

Alternative: Blank grid templates, mini whiteboards

Key Vocabulary

Cardinal points

The four main compass directions: North, East, South, West

Orientate

To turn a map so it matches the actual direction you are facing

Inter-cardinal points

The directions between cardinal points: NE, NW, SE, SW

Grid reference

A system of coordinates used to locate positions on a map

Navigation

The process of finding your way from one place to another using maps and directions

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Students can identify basic directions (left, right, forward, backward)
Students understand the concept of following simple instructions
Students have experience working in pairs and small groups

Current Skills

Using cardinal points (North, East, South, West) for navigation
Orientating a map to match their position and direction
Drawing routes and creating directional instructions
Reading and interpreting simple map symbols

Next Steps

Using inter-cardinal points consistently in complex routes
Reading contour lines and understanding terrain features
Using compass bearings for precise navigation
Planning multi-stage navigation courses

Milestone Indicators

Consistently orientates map correctly when changing position

Gives clear, accurate directional instructions to peers

Demonstrates understanding of map symbols and their meanings

Shows improved confidence in outdoor navigation tasks

Key Teaching Points

Map orientation is crucial - always turn the map to match your facing direction
Cardinal points (N,E,S,W) are the foundation of all navigation skills
Clear communication between team roles ensures navigation success
Practice with simple routes before attempting complex inter-cardinal navigation
Connect navigation skills to real-world outdoor adventure opportunities
Celebrate both accuracy and teamwork equally during navigation challenges

Common Misconceptions

Maps should always be held in the same position - teach that maps must rotate with direction changes
Left and right are the same as East and West - emphasise compass directions are fixed regardless of body position
Navigation is just about reaching destinations - highlight that accurate route following and map skills are equally important
Only the navigator needs to understand the route - encourage all team members to engage with map reading
Inter-cardinal points are too complex for Year 4 - build confidence through scaffolded practice with willing learners

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Clear, short instructions, frequent position changes, active roles for all group members, immediate feedback on navigation success

dyspraxia

Simplified map symbols, extra orientation practice, peer navigation support, alternative recording methods for route tracking

autism spectrum

Clear structure with visual schedule, predictable group roles, quiet zones for overwhelm, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use bright, high-contrast cone colours, verbal descriptions of grid layout, tactile maps with raised symbols, buddy navigation support

hearing impairment

Visual demonstration of all instructions, written route cards, hand signal system for navigation, clear sightlines to teacher

physical disability

Seated navigation roles available, adapted route distances, powered mobility support, alternative recording methods

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following and giving clear instructions, descriptive language for directions, technical vocabulary development

Maths

Grid references and coordinate systems, measuring distances and angles, spatial reasoning and geometric thinking

Science

Understanding forces in movement, investigating magnetic properties of compasses, exploring earth's magnetic field

Geography

Using maps and atlases, compass directions and basic orientation skills, understanding symbols and keys

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position near cone grid for maximum visibility of all groups during navigation activities

Observation Focus

Watch for accurate map orientation, effective group communication, and safe movement around cone grid

Intervention Points

Step in if groups are struggling with orientation, if navigation becomes unsafe, or if teamwork breaks down

Demonstration Notes

Use large, visible maps for whole-group demonstrations, exaggerate orientation movements, model clear communication between team roles

Verbal Cues

•'Check your map orientation!'
•'Navigator, read the instruction clearly!'
•'Remember to turn your map as you turn!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 30m outdoor area with clear boundaries and good visibility

Surface Check

Level ground free from holes, debris, or slippery surfaces

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Cones checked for cracks or sharp edges
•Pencils with protective caps or short enough to prevent injury
•Route cards laminated to prevent paper cuts

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collision between groups during navigation
•Trips and falls while focusing on maps
•Getting lost or separated from group

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established with 4m spacing between navigation points
•Groups maintain visual contact with teacher
•Walking pace enforced during navigation activities
•Buddy system within groups of three

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position centrally for visibility of all groups
•Circulate between groups during independent navigation
•Monitor cone grid boundaries are respected

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear evacuation route identified