Lesson 1 - Map Reading and Navigation Basics
Strategic Navigation and Collaborative Orienteering
•Year 5
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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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
Pre-printed with 6 different face designs using equipment symbols
Alternative: Laminated simple grid maps with symbols
Scattered around activity area for warm-up and face construction
Alternative: Coloured bibs, bean bags, playground markers
Different sizes available for face orienteering stations
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, spots
Multiple colours needed to match map symbols
Alternative: Soft balls, foam blocks, coloured blocks
For creating straight lines and boundaries on faces
Alternative: Ribbon, chalk lines, tape
To support maps and prevent wind damage
Alternative: Hard backing boards, books
Key Vocabulary
A drawing or plan showing the features of an area as seen from above
A list explaining what the symbols and colours on a map represent
A simple picture or sign that represents something else on a map
The process of finding your way from one place to another using a map
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
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