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Lesson 4 - Navigation and Teamwork Challenges

Navigation & Communication Skills

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Year 5

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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1h 7min

Big Question

How can effective communication and map reading skills help teams overcome challenges together?

Learning Objectives

To navigate accurately using simple maps and visual cues
To demonstrate effective teamwork and communication during group challenges
To show agility, balance, coordination and precision in movement activities

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully navigate around a course using a map
Students will work collaboratively to solve problems and complete team challenges
Students will demonstrate improved physical skills through structured activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

6 cones

Arrange in grid pattern across area with clear visibility

Alternative: Coloured markers with laminated numbers attached

Mats

15 different routes

Each map shows different route through numbered cones

Alternative: Hand-drawn diagrams on laminated cards

Cards

30 cards

Place under each cone, differentiated by difficulty

Alternative: Questions written directly under cones

Fabric Pieces

30 pieces (40cm each)

Store safely at side of area until needed

Alternative: Cardboard tubes or drainpipe sections

Golf Balls

6 balls

Check for damage before use

Alternative: Tennis balls or small soft balls

Stopwatch

Ensure visible to all groups

Alternative: Phone timer or classroom clock

Key Vocabulary

Navigate

To find your way from one place to another using a map or directions

Orientation

Positioning a map so it matches the real world around you

Route

The path or way taken to get from one place to another

Coordinates

Numbers or letters that help identify exact positions on a map

Teamwork

Working together effectively to achieve a common goal

Communication

Sharing information clearly through speaking and listening

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of directions (left, right, forwards, backwards)
Experience working in pairs and small groups
Fundamental movement skills in running and jumping

Current Skills

Map reading and orientation skills
Advanced teamwork and communication strategies
Precise movement control under pressure

Next Steps

Using compass bearings for navigation
Leading expeditions and outdoor challenges
Problem-solving in complex environments

Milestone Indicators

Can orient a map correctly without help

Communicates solutions clearly under time pressure

Maintains control and precision when challenged

Key Teaching Points

Always orient maps to match the real environment before starting navigation
Emphasise teamwork over speed in all challenges
Build mathematical confidence through collaborative problem-solving
Model clear communication strategies during team challenges
Celebrate effort and improvement alongside achievement
Connect precision skills to real-world applications
Use positive reinforcement to maintain engagement during difficulties

Common Misconceptions

Maps should always be held 'right way up' - teach rotation for orientation
Faster completion means better performance - emphasise accuracy and teamwork
Only verbal children can be good communicators - value listening and non-verbal support
Mathematical problems must be solved individually - promote collaborative calculation
Physical challenges are only about strength - highlight precision and control
Navigation is just following directions - teach spatial awareness and decision-making

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear boundaries, movement breaks built in, specific roles to maintain focus, immediate feedback

dyspraxia

Simplified map designs with fewer elements, larger equipment for easier handling, extra practice time, step-by-step instruction breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedules of activities, quiet spaces available, structured teamwork roles, predictable routine within lesson

visual impairment

Large print maps with high contrast, tactile markers on cones, buddy system for navigation, verbal descriptions of area layout

hearing impairment

Visual signals for instructions, written route cards, demonstration-heavy teaching, clear sight lines to teacher

physical disability

Shorter routes with wheelchair accessible paths, modified Gutter Ball with seated positions, alternative manipulation tasks

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Forces and motion in ball transport, friction and momentum, balance and gravity

Geography

Map reading skills, orientation and direction, coordinate systems, spatial awareness

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills, resilience and persistence, communication strategies

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during navigation challenges for maximum visibility, move between groups during Gutter Ball

Observation Focus

Watch for correct map orientation, effective teamwork communication, safe movement between activities

Intervention Points

Step in if students are struggling with map concepts, mediate team conflicts, support mathematical problem-solving

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Clear map orientation technique, show ball passing in Gutter Ball, model effective team communication

Verbal Cues

•'Orient your map first!'
•'Work together on this calculation!'
•'Freeze when the ball is on your gutter!'
•'Communicate your next move!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 30m x 40m with clear sightlines, or large indoor hall

Surface Check

Even surface free from holes, debris, or water that could cause slips during running

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check guttering pieces for sharp edges or splits that could cause cuts
•Ensure golf balls are in good condition without cracks
•Verify cones are stable and not cracked
•Check number cards are securely attached to prevent choking hazards

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between pairs rushing between cones
•Trips and falls while focused on maps rather than terrain
•Frustration leading to arguments during mathematical problem-solving
•Dropping golf balls on feet during Gutter Ball challenge

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing between teams and designated pathways
•Emphasis on controlled movement and awareness of others
•Teacher positioned centrally to monitor all groups
•Progressive challenge introduction to build confidence

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all navigation groups
•Monitor mathematical problem-solving areas for frustration
•Stay mobile during Gutter Ball to assist struggling teams
•Watch for competitiveness affecting safety decisions

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess any injuries, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if needed, maintain supervision of other students