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Lesson 1 - Map Reading and Navigation Basics

Strategic Navigation and Collaborative Orienteering

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Year 5

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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Big Question

How can we use maps and teamwork to navigate successfully in outdoor adventures?

Learning Objectives

To understand how to read a simple map and use a key correctly
To develop teamwork and communication skills through collaborative orienteering tasks
To apply problem-solving strategies when navigating using maps

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to interpret basic map symbols using a key
Students will demonstrate effective teamwork when completing orienteering challenges
Students will show improved confidence in following simple navigation instructions

Equipment & Resources Required

Maps

1 per pair (15 maps)

Pre-printed with 6 different face designs using equipment symbols

Alternative: Laminated simple grid maps with symbols

Cones

12-18 various colours

Scattered around activity area for warm-up and face construction

Alternative: Coloured bibs, bean bags, playground markers

Hoops

12-15

Different sizes available for face orienteering stations

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, spots

Balls

25 (various colours)

Multiple colours needed to match map symbols

Alternative: Soft balls, foam blocks, coloured blocks

Rope

3.5 pieces (3m each)

For creating straight lines and boundaries on faces

Alternative: Ribbon, chalk lines, tape

Clipboards

15 (1 per pair)

To support maps and prevent wind damage

Alternative: Hard backing boards, books

Key Vocabulary

Map

A drawing or plan showing the features of an area as seen from above

Key

A list explaining what the symbols and colours on a map represent

Symbol

A simple picture or sign that represents something else on a map

Navigation

The process of finding your way from one place to another using a map

Orienteering

A sport where you use a map to find your way to different checkpoints

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of following instructions
Experience working in pairs and small groups
Awareness of different outdoor environments

Current Skills

Map reading using keys and symbols
Collaborative problem-solving
Basic navigation and orientation

Next Steps

Using compass bearings with maps
Creating detailed route plans
Advanced orienteering in varied terrain

Milestone Indicators

Can identify all symbols on face map correctly

Completes face orienteering task without teacher support

Takes leadership role in guiding partner

Key Teaching Points

Maps always show the bird's eye view - what things look like from above
The key is essential - always check symbols against the key before moving
Teamwork means talking, listening, and helping each other succeed
Accuracy is more important than speed in orienteering activities
Planning before action leads to better results in navigation
Problem-solving skills develop through practice and reflection
Orienteering connects physical activity with thinking skills

Common Misconceptions

Maps show side-on views like photographs - correct by emphasising aerial perspective
Symbols are exact pictures - explain they are simplified representations
Speed is most important in orienteering - emphasise accuracy and safety first
Only one person needs to read the map - stress shared responsibility in partnerships
Map reading is only useful outdoors - connect to indoor navigation and everyday life

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with movement breaks, clear visual boundaries, immediate feedback and praise system

dyspraxia

Larger equipment easier to handle, simplified map layouts, extra practice time with symbols and key

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available for breaks, consistent routine and structure

visual impairment

Use large print maps with high contrast symbols, provide tactile equipment markers, buddy system with sighted partner

hearing impairment

Visual demonstration cards for instructions, hand signals for direction, written symbol key with pictures

physical disability

Adapted equipment placement at accessible height, wheelchair-friendly routes, partner support for equipment handling

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following and giving instructions, descriptive language for locations, vocabulary development

Maths

Grid references, coordinates, scaling, measuring distances, geometric shapes in symbols

Science

Forces and motion during movement, materials and properties of equipment, planning and conducting investigations

Art

Creating symbols and pictograms, design principles for clear communication, observational drawing from above

Geography

Map skills, symbols and keys, aerial perspectives, compass directions, human and physical features

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, communication skills, perseverance and resilience, leadership development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location during instruction, circulate during practical activities, corner position during competitions for overview

Observation Focus

Watch for accurate map reading, effective partner communication, safe movement patterns, problem-solving strategies

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggle with symbol interpretation, support frustrated partnerships, clarify safety concerns immediately

Demonstration Notes

Always exaggerate movements for visibility, use clear pointing gestures, involve students in demonstrations when possible, repeat key actions multiple times

Verbal Cues

•'Check your map first!'
•'Work together, talk together!'
•'Safety first, speed second!'
•'Use your key to unlock the symbols!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m outdoor area or large hall, clear of major obstacles

Surface Check

Even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery conditions

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all equipment is age-appropriate size and weight
•Ensure no sharp edges on cones or equipment
•Verify clipboard edges are smooth and safe

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during competitive activities
•Trips over scattered equipment
•Overexertion during warm-up running
•Frustration leading to unsafe behaviour

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear boundaries and movement patterns
•Ensure adequate spacing between pairs during activities
•Monitor intensity levels and provide rest breaks
•Emphasise controlled movement rather than speed

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear sight lines to all activity areas
•Circulate actively during independent work time
•Monitor competition activities closely for safety and fair play

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, alert school office if serious injury