🧭

Lesson 3 - Point and Return Navigation

Strategic Navigation and Collaborative Orienteering

•

Year 5

•

Outdoor Adventurous Activities

•

Big Question

What makes an effective team when navigating outdoors and how can we use maps to work together successfully?

Learning Objectives

To orientate a map correctly and understand how to re-orientate from any position
To locate specific points on a map and navigate to them successfully as a team
To develop teamwork and communication skills whilst problem-solving outdoors

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to orientate a map using compass directions
Students will successfully locate and navigate to marked points using map reading skills
Students will demonstrate effective teamwork and communication during outdoor challenges

Equipment & Resources Required

Maps

1 per pair (15)

Pre-mark orienteering points on maps, laminate for durability

Alternative: Hand-drawn simple maps, aerial photos of school grounds

Cones

16 (8 for compass points, 8 for orienteering course)

Different colours for different point values if using scoring system

Alternative: Bean bags, hoops, laminated letters

Clipboards

1 per pair (15)

Attach pencils with string to prevent loss

Alternative: Hard-backed books, writing boards

Whistles

For time signals and emergency recall

Alternative: Bell, timer with alarm

Sun Markers

8 cards

Place at each orienteering point for students to record evidence

Alternative: Laminated symbols, QR codes, pictures

Key Vocabulary

Orientate

To position a map so that it matches the real world direction you are facing

Navigation

Finding your way from one place to another using a map or compass

Compass bearings

The eight main directions: N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW

Base

The starting point or safe meeting place for orienteering activities

Checkpoint

A specific location marked on the map that teams need to find

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of maps and symbols
Knowledge of compass directions (NSEW)
Experience working in pairs and small groups

Current Skills

Map orientation techniques
Point-to-point navigation skills
Teamwork and communication in outdoor settings

Next Steps

Multi-point navigation courses
Time-based orienteering challenges
Independent route planning

Milestone Indicators

Confidently orientates map without assistance

Successfully locates 3+ points independently

Demonstrates leadership and encourages partner

Key Teaching Points

Always orientate the map before beginning navigation - 'Make North point North'
Encourage genuine teamwork where both partners contribute to decisions
Use landmarks and features, not just following paths blindly
Plan your route before setting off - think, then move
Safety comes first - stay within boundaries and work with your partner
Celebrate effort and improvement, not just successful checkpoint finding
Connect orienteering skills to real-world navigation and problem-solving

Common Misconceptions

Maps only work when held 'right way up' - teach flexible orientation
Fastest route is always the shortest - discuss terrain and obstacles
Individual speed matters more than teamwork - emphasise cooperation
Getting lost means failure - frame as learning opportunity
Maps are only useful for orienteering - connect to everyday navigation
Only one person needs to read the map - ensure both partners engage

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries and expectations, fidget tools during reflection, movement breaks as needed

dyspraxia

Simplified maps with fewer details, extra time for navigation, physical support with map handling, clear step-by-step instructions

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedules, predictable routines, quiet spaces for breaks, reduced group sizes for comfort

visual impairment

Large print maps, tactile markers at checkpoints, audio descriptions of landmarks, buddy system with sighted partner

hearing impairment

Visual signals for timing, written instructions on clipboards, clear visual demonstrations of navigation techniques

physical disability

Adapted checkpoints accessible by wheelchair, shorter distances, alternative recording methods, motorised mobility support

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Using coordinates and grid references, measuring distances on maps, calculating scores and time

Science

Forces in movement, understanding magnetic north, weather awareness for outdoor activities

Geography

Understanding maps, symbols, and scale, developing spatial awareness and direction skills

PSHE

Teamwork, communication, leadership, resilience when facing challenges, responsibility for others' safety

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between central base and course perimeter to maintain oversight of all pairs

Observation Focus

Watch for effective teamwork, map reading accuracy, and safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in when pairs appear lost, unsafe, or experiencing communication difficulties

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated gestures for map orientation, walk through navigation examples slowly

Verbal Cues

•'Remember to orientate your map first!'
•'Work together - two heads are better than one!'
•'What landmarks can help you navigate?'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 50m x 50m, clear sight lines for supervision

Surface Check

Check for holes, wet patches, obstacles, and ensure safe boundaries are clearly marked

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check cones are stable and visible
•Ensure maps are laminated and have no sharp edges
•Verify clipboards are in good condition

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Students getting lost or separated from partners
•Trips and falls on uneven outdoor surfaces
•Students leaving designated boundary areas
•Weather exposure during extended outdoor activity

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundary establishment and enforcement
•Partner system ensuring no student works alone
•Adult supervision positioned at key points
•Emergency whistle signals for immediate recall
•Weather-appropriate clothing and timing

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position adults near boundary edges and potential hazards
•Maintain visual contact with all student pairs
•Have roaming supervision across activity area

Emergency Procedures

Whistle signal for immediate return to base, first aid kit accessible, clear communication with school office