This unit develops Year 5 students' ability to work collaboratively through progressively complex outdoor and adventurous challenges, culminating in navigation and orienteering skills. The pedagogical focus shifts from foundational communication and trust-building to applying these interpersonal skills in practical navigation contexts. Through carefully structured problem-solving activities, students develop resilience, strategic thinking, and the confidence to tackle challenges that require genuine interdependence.

Lessons in This Unit

8 lessons in this unit

Lesson 1

Communication and Trust Building
1h

Big Question:

How can effective communication and trust help us solve problems together as a team?

Key Objectives:

  • To work effectively with a partner and small group
  • To build communication and trust showing awareness of safety

Lesson 2

Teamwork and Problem Solving
58 min

Big Question:

How can we work together as a team to overcome challenges and solve problems effectively?

Key Objectives:

  • To work as a team to solve problems through communication and collaboration
  • To suggest ideas and listen actively to others' contributions

Lesson 3

Co-operation and Problem Solving
54 min

Big Question:

How can we use teamwork and critical thinking to solve challenges together?

Key Objectives:

  • To develop co-operation and teamwork skills through collaborative challenges
  • To use critical thinking and problem-solving strategies in group situations

Lesson 4

Problem Solving and Team Strategy
1h

Big Question:

How can we work together to overcome challenges that seem impossible alone?

Key Objectives:

  • To develop strategies and planning skills through problem-solving challenges
  • To work as a team to solve complex problems requiring coordination

Lesson 5

Team Problem Solving
1h

Big Question:

How can we use teamwork and critical thinking to overcome challenges together?

Key Objectives:

  • To share ideas and work as a team to solve problems effectively
  • To develop critical thinking skills when approaching complex challenges

Lesson 6

Trust and Communication Challenges
1h

Big Question:

How can we develop trust and effective communication to solve challenges as a team?

Key Objectives:

  • To develop trust through collaborative problem-solving activities
  • To improve listening skills and ability to follow instructions accurately

Lesson 7

Navigation and Map Reading Skills
1h

Big Question:

How can we use maps and compass directions to navigate efficiently and work as an effective team?

Key Objectives:

  • To develop navigational skills and map reading ability
  • To work effectively with a partner to complete an orienteering course

Lesson 8

Map Navigation and Orienteering
1h

Big Question:

How can we use maps and symbols to navigate safely and efficiently in unfamiliar environments?

Key Objectives:

  • To navigate around a course using a map with accuracy and confidence
  • To interpret and use a key to identify objects and locations on a map