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Lesson 2 - Route Following and Problem Solving

Trust & Creative Challenges

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Year 5

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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1h 2min

Big Question

How can we work together effectively to solve challenges while pushing ourselves to achieve maximum performance?

Learning Objectives

To work at maximum capacity when running designated routes
To follow complex routes accurately and safely
To cooperate effectively with partners to solve physical challenges

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate sustained effort at maximum capacity during route-following activities
Students will successfully navigate designated routes while maintaining safety awareness
Students will work collaboratively to solve problems and record results accurately

Equipment & Resources Required

Hoops

2 per pair (60 total)

One hoop as 'nest', one as 'bag', 15-20m apart

Alternative: Cones, rope circles, or marked areas

Balls

4 per pair (120 total)

Place 4 balls in each 'nest' hoop at start

Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls, or foam balls

Sun Markers

20 laminated cards

Arrange in large square formation, each with different letter

Alternative: Numbered cones with letters attached

Score Sheets

1 per student (30)

Pre-numbered 1-20 for recording letters

Alternative: Small whiteboards or clipboards

Pencils

1 per student (30)

Attached to answer sheets to prevent loss

Alternative: Crayons or dry-erase markers

Stopwatch

For timing challenges and maintaining pace

Alternative: Phone timer or countdown app

Key Vocabulary

Maximum capacity

Working at the highest level of effort you can sustain safely

Designated route

A specific path or course that must be followed exactly

Control point

A specific location marked on a course where participants must complete a task

Strategic planning

Thinking ahead to decide the best way to complete a challenge

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running technique and pacing
Simple map reading and direction following
Working cooperatively in pairs

Current Skills

Maximum effort running over sustained periods
Strategic problem-solving under time pressure
Accurate recording and self-assessment

Next Steps

Complex orienteering with multiple checkpoints
Team-based challenge planning and execution
Advanced navigation using compass bearings

Milestone Indicators

Maintains consistent high effort throughout activities

Demonstrates strategic thinking in route planning

Shows leadership in partnership challenges

Key Teaching Points

Maximum effort can be sustained safely when students listen to their bodies
Strategic planning significantly improves performance in physical challenges
Effective partnerships require clear communication and shared decision-making
Spatial awareness is crucial for safe movement in group activities
Problem-solving skills transfer between different types of challenges
Recording results accurately helps track improvement and build confidence
Leadership can be shown through encouraging partners and helping others succeed

Common Misconceptions

Faster always means better - emphasise smart strategy over pure speed
Only one partner needs to participate actively - stress equal contribution
Rules can be bent to achieve better results - reinforce integrity in challenges
Physical challenges don't require thinking - highlight planning and strategy
Mistakes mean failure - reframe as learning opportunities and improvement chances

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with regular check-ins, clear visual boundaries, frequent positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Additional practice time, simplified movement patterns, extra support with coordination tasks, patient approach

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available for breaks, consistent partnerships

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of layout, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for starts and stops, written instruction cards, clear visual demonstrations

physical disability

Adapted distances, allow walking instead of running, modified equipment if needed, supportive partnerships

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Letter recognition, word formation, vocabulary development, communication skills

Science

Understanding forces in throwing, effects of exercise on body, energy and movement

Geography

Map reading skills, spatial awareness, direction and navigation concepts

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience in challenges, communication skills, leadership development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location with clear sight lines to all activity areas, moving between groups during activities

Observation Focus

Partnership cooperation, sustained effort levels, spatial awareness, and rule compliance

Intervention Points

Step in if safety concerns arise, if partnerships struggle with cooperation, or if students show signs of fatigue

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements to show techniques, involve students in demonstrations, provide multiple examples of successful strategies

Verbal Cues

•'Maximum effort but stay safe!'
•'Great teamwork - I can see you communicating!'
•'Look up and around you!'
•'Find an empty control point!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 30m x 30m, or gymnasium with high ceiling

Surface Check

Level surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check hoops for cracks or sharp edges
•Ensure balls are properly inflated and not damaged
•Verify control cards are securely laminated and attached

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during maximum effort running
•Trips or falls due to equipment on ground
•Overexertion during sustained high-intensity activities

Risk Mitigation

•Maintain adequate spacing between pair activity areas
•Stagger starts to prevent congestion at control points
•Monitor effort levels and provide rest periods as needed
•Clear equipment from running paths between activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear sight lines across entire activity area
•Move between activities to monitor effort and safety
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact medical support if needed