Lesson 7 - Navigational Skills and Map Reading
Leadership & Navigation Skills
•Year 6
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
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How can we use maps and teamwork to navigate successfully through challenging terrain?
Learning Objectives
- To develop advanced navigational skills and accurate map reading techniques
- To work effectively with a partner using clear communication and shared decision-making
- To orientate maps efficiently whilst moving around a course
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully navigate multiple orienteering courses using map reading skills
- Students will demonstrate effective partnership working and role sharing
- Students will show improved map orientation and spatial awareness
Equipment & Resources Required
Place according to teachers copy map document, ensuring numbers are hidden underneath
Alternative: Spot markers, bean bags, or laminated number cards
Distribute with record sheets, ensure all have working erasers
Alternative: Pens, clipboards with attached pencils
Pre-highlight cardinal points, ensure clear printing for visibility
Alternative: Laminated versions for reuse, digital tablets with map display
Cut individual problems and secure under corresponding numbered cones
Alternative: QR codes linking to digital problems, picture-based challenges
Include team names and clear spaces for recording mathematical solutions
Alternative: Digital recording apps, laminated sheets with dry-wipe markers
Prepare various routes of different complexities for progressive challenge
Alternative: Colour-coded route cards, differentiated difficulty levels
Use for accurate cone placement before lesson, mark all numbered positions clearly
Alternative: Detailed setup diagram, digital layout plan
Key Vocabulary
To align the map so that the directions on the map match the actual directions in the real world
The four main compass directions: North, South, East, and West
The process of finding your way from one place to another using maps and landmarks
The direction or path along which something lies, typically measured as an angle from north
A recognisable natural or artificial feature used for navigation and to identify location
The process of determining the most efficient path between multiple locations
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Understanding of basic compass directions (North, South, East, West)
- Experience working in pairs during physical activities
- Basic map symbols recognition from geography lessons
- Ability to follow simple instructions and sequences
Current Skills
- Map orientation techniques using cardinal points and landmarks
- Systematic approach to course navigation and route planning
- Effective partner communication during problem-solving tasks
- Integration of mathematical skills through coordinate-based challenges
Next Steps
- Advanced orienteering with contour maps and elevation changes
- Night navigation using alternative techniques
- Large-scale outdoor orienteering in natural environments
- Leadership roles in guiding groups through navigation challenges
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Map orientation must be checked and adjusted at every new location during navigation
- Cardinal points (North, South, East, West) are fixed directions that never change regardless of personal position
- Effective teamwork requires clear role division, regular communication, and mutual support during challenges
- Navigation accuracy improves when students use systematic approaches rather than random exploration
- Mathematical problem-solving integrates naturally with physical navigation when properly structured
- Quality of navigation and recording is more important than speed of completion
- Regular practice with map orientation builds confidence and spatial awareness over time
Common Misconceptions
- Students often think North is 'up' on the map rather than a fixed compass direction - address through practical pointing exercises
- Many believe maps don't need re-orientation when they change position - emphasise checking at every new location
- Some assume navigation is just about following lines rather than understanding spatial relationships - teach using landmarks
- Students may think one partner can complete orienteering alone - stress collaborative nature of effective navigation
- Students often rush mathematical recording leading to errors - emphasise accuracy over speed throughout
- Some believe orienteering is just running between points - teach systematic planning and decision-making processes
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter navigation segments, clear movement boundaries, frequent check-ins, tactile equipment handling to maintain engagement
dyspraxia
- Simplified route cards, extra time for map orientation, colour-coded cone system, partner support for fine motor recording tasks
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual timetable of activities, quiet reflection zones, predictable partner arrangements and role expectations
visual impairment
- Large-print maps with high contrast colours, tactile cone markers, verbal descriptions of course layout, buddy system for navigation support
hearing impairment
- Visual instruction cards, hand signal communication system, written route instructions, clear visual demonstrations of all techniques
physical disability
- Modified navigation using wheelchair-accessible routes, seated map reading activities, alternative recording methods, adapted mathematical challenges
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, instructional language comprehension, collaborative discussion and communication skills
Science
Forces and motion through directional movement, data recording and analysis, systematic observation and hypothesis testing
Geography
Cardinal directions, map symbols interpretation, spatial awareness, landscape features recognition and navigation skills
Mathematics
Coordinate geometry, problem-solving arithmetic, angle measurement, scale and ratio understanding through map reading
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central court position with clear visibility of all 20 cone locations and regular circulation for close monitoring of navigation accuracy
Observation Focus
Watch for systematic map orientation, effective partner communication, mathematical recording accuracy, and safe movement patterns
Intervention Points
Step in when pairs show navigation confusion, mathematical recording difficulties, or communication breakdowns affecting safety
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate map orientation with exaggerated hand movements for visibility, show systematic cone approach, model positive partner communication constantly
Verbal Cues
- •'Map first, then move!'
- •'Check your orientation!'
- •'Both partners contribute!'
- •'Quality over speed!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Full netball court (minimum 30m x 15m) with clear boundaries and adequate surrounding space for equipment setup
Surface Check
Dry, even court surface free from debris, standing water, or trip hazards around cone positions
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •All 20 cones secured and stable with mathematical problems firmly attached underneath
- •Maps waterproof and tear-resistant for extended outdoor handling
- •Pencils with erasers in good condition, checked for sharp points or damage
- •Route cards and record sheets clearly printed and edges smooth
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between pairs during simultaneous navigation activities
- •Trips or falls due to focus on maps rather than ground awareness
- •Paper cuts from map edges or record sheets during extended handling
- •Eye strain from detailed map reading in varying light conditions
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear movement protocols established before navigation begins
- •Adequate spacing between cone positions to prevent pair collisions
- •Regular reminders about ground awareness during map consultation
- •Laminated maps and rounded-corner materials to prevent paper cuts
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position teacher with clear sight lines to all navigation areas
- •Monitor high-activity zones where multiple pairs converge on popular cones
- •Maintain awareness of navigation progress to identify pairs needing support
- •Regular circulation between groups for close observation and assistance
Emergency Procedures
Stop signal established for immediate attention, first aid kit accessible in central location, clear evacuation routes maintained around court perimeter